Thank you! I completely agree. Having too much time on your hands causes more problems than I can count. Thinking is all good and necessary, but overthinking is something academics excel at! Good luck with the PhD decision…

Hi Mari, yes, absolutely go for it with the productivity gains. Excellent line of argumentation! There was one researcher at the seminar who really got it, but he had already been studying productivity for a bit. He actually got back to me with the advice to elaborate more on the performance analogy. I’m going to take his advice. The supervisors were again the most sceptical. They really seemed to believe in the kill yourself mentality. The most sceptical one was disappointed I didn’t have anything more ‘evidence-based’. Oh well 😉

I frequently have these discussions with coworkers (STEM research), and the majority of my admittedly not-random sample support a healthy work-life balance. The point of improved productivity is rarely raised, though. Perhaps it warrants a mention the next time the topic is raised 🙂

Thanks for a great post!

Great present! I agree that some advice is a bit extreme. I see it as a bit of tough love to shock you into reflecting on your behaviour. The main message of the book seems to be: Grow Up. Be professional. And it spells out what that looks like. I believe so many academics are deprived of the hows, and that’s why I recommend the book.

I may write another post on ‘c.v. -building’ as I don’t believe it leads to fulfilment or even the ‘best’ career outcomes. But as a first step I agree with Kelsky that thinking strategically about your publications and other professional activities is a good idea.

I agree Mari

The book has many valuable lessons indeed and is honest.
Some points are taken to the extreme a bit, e.g. ‘avoid other PhD candidates at a conference’. The point is nevertheless valid: approach interesting career scholars at a conference to your benefit. That’s always a good idea indeed.

Last point: sometimes it’s also good to do things that give you energy, even if they don’t result in a valuable line on your CV. I have just returned from teaching at a summer school for students which will do nothing for my CV; but I have certainly come back inspired and enthusiastic!

Thanks for bringing this book to our attention, Amber.

Thanks for your comment Cee! Truly helpful to know we’re not the only one.