Real Academics Blog

Dear Real Academics, I've written in the past about a book I enjoyed reading because of the content and because it was so beautifully written: Spiritual Rhythm by Mark Buchanan . The premise of the book revolves around observing life through seasons. With that said, indulge me a bit to think about how seasons might look in terms of academic writing.  And, more importantly, what that season means for you as an academic writer. As you read, think about what season YOU are in. Spring A time of  new,  energy,  and  activity Examples could be: The start of a new project; generating new ideas; starting a new job What the season means for you as an academic writer: Embrace the season of excitement. Use the season to foster collaborations and get involved in new learning activities. Try out new strategies. Read and write different kinds of things. Summer A time of  warmth,  vacation,  and  time Examples could be: A sabbatical year; a writing retreat; a dissertation boot camp What the se

Dear Real Academics, I do not normally endorse being tired.  But, the other day I was walking Rocky (my Chiweenie dog), and I saw an older man working hard cutting the limbs off of a big tree. He then proceeded to lift them and put them on the back of his truck. As we walked by, we said "hello" and exchanged the customary, "how are you?" His answer was a chipper, "good and tired". Have you ever been "good and tired"? Is it possible to be both? I think, yes. Like when you finish a good work-out. Or when you accomplish a big task that you've been steadily working on.  Or when...you fill in the blank. Be tired about doing things that are good for you.  Be tired for working to be healthy, for being productive, and for doing work you love.  And, if you need some help orienting yourself to health, productivity, and doing work you love, check out these 3 past blog posts to inspire you (listed by topics). We have more, but here's a start: Health

Dear Real Academics, Dr. Garza and I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a lovely holiday season with your loved ones. I hope the Real Academics blog posts have been a gift to you in terms of  insight,  encouragement, and  a sense that you are not alone on this journey.  With that said: Thank you for your readership and for being a part of the Real Academics family.   You're the best gift we could ask for! On that note, we leave you with a question to ponder: How can your writing be a gift to others? Until next time, happy writing, productivity, and truth seeking, Maggie ,  Tiberio ,  Rebekah, and Rocky Want more? Watch  what's new. Subscribe  to our newsletter. Share this post with a friend (share link below).