Staying motivated can be challenging amidst the ongoing pandemic that has become a part of our lives. Most individuals struggle to follow a consistent and stable routine and be productive, often making some wonder, 'what's the point?' distractions surround most people at home, which is why it's a place usually kept away from work. EDAMBA's Ph.D. Summer Academy is an innovative and dynamic program designed for Ph.D. students who wish to expand their horizons through a radically diverse and creative academic and personal experience. Over time, the professional qualifications you can acquire will give you a good head start in developing your career.
Following are ten handy hacks amassed to ensure you stay focused, energized and working from home During Your Research Degree.
1. Take it easy and start small
While working on your research degree can be tricky while stuck in a four-walled space, it's important not to let that swamp you up. Acknowledge small steps, such as finishing the weekly lectures of an online Ph.D. course or documenting the first piece of your thesis introduction, and reward yourself once you execute something. This approach is a great way to break big problems into parts and highlight your small victories to help you avoid being overwhelmed and stay motivated.
2. Stay connected
with your community
Sure, self-isolation may sound scary, but it only signifies physical isolation; what would help you in such a situation is if you are socially active. Back on a university campus, you may have concocted some connections with your fellow PhD research students. Don't let those connections wither during these times; instead, stay connected virtually through various online network mediums and keep supporting each other.
3. Create a to-do list.
When you lay out your plan for the day or week, create a to-do list of what you'd like to accomplish during that duration. Indeed, things will crop up when you are in between your research, but when you have laid out some things in your do-to list, it can help with your schedule. A to-do list is a great, accessible reminder of what needs to come next. You can prioritize your to-do list, so you're capable of getting the most important or timely things done (like a report submission), and you always have something next to work on when you have spare time. A tip: plan your to do so that if a specific task gets too tedious, you get a chance to latch onto something new that'll give your mind a break.
4. Have a designated workspace in your home
College and personal life are bound to overlap more specifically now that they are under the same roof. However, setting up a workspace for yourself in your home itself helps you make the mental switch from 'home' to 'work'. Therefore, instead of working on your research papers or attending lectures on the bed, maybe you can set up a little desk in a vacant space in the living room or even if you make a small divider in the bedroom itself works too.
5. Take Advantage of Technology
Jotting down notes is essential in class despite this, many students fail to take notes properly. Imagine taking down every word the lecturer says; this will certainly get you far behind and miss out on essential details. It's crucial to find out your way of abbreviating words and phrases to keep up with your professor. Several educational programs are available that help students with every aspect of studying, so students should take advantage of the technology and use the necessary study apps.
6. Dress up for work
It's normal if you're struggling to keep up with a routine, but what you wear may help enhance cognition. Working remotely means there will be a lingering temptation to write chapters in your pajamas. To psyche you up, having a work-from-home outfit is vital because what you choose to wear matters. You need to pick out clothes you resemble with positive things that boost your mood or make you feel more empowered. If you're feeling stuck, here's a tip, ask yourself what your goal is for the day and dress accordingly it can be as easy as wearing your favorite colored T-shirt.
7. Take periodic breaks
Whether you're on lockdown mode or working in the library, you're entitled to take a break, and it's pretty easy to forget that as a research degree student. Because to complete research, staying focused and energiszd is also essential; you can do that simply by stepping away from your work. Take a walk to clear your mind, enjoy a home workout, basically anything that you're comfortable doing.
8. Utilise social media
Not only is social media a definitive source of information, but it's also one of the practical ways to stay connected. Social media gives a massive scale of data available for researchers to analyze in people's own words. For instance, by joining a Facebook group, you can go through the Ph.D. research degree journey with like-minded individuals and network with researchers online. Researchers can also use social media to clear their minds and get some inspiration.
9. But don't be afraid to turn it off.
As mentioned earlier, social media can be great to clear your mind off of mundane routines, but it also can be a real distraction. It's vital to ensure it doesn't fall into the latter category.
10. Stay healthy
The most critical point associated with the Coronavirus is that it is incredibly contagious. Furthermore, working in isolation can predictably cause mental fatigue and loneliness. Do not forget to reach out to friends, family and colleagues if you feel overwhelmed with specific research or even lonely at times.
The 2022 EDAMBA Summer Research Academy specifically aims for doctoral students in the management and business fields. Visit our website for more details about the PhD Summer Academy.