My relief at having completed my to-do list was short lived. I’ve just agreed to take on two more time-consuming tasks.
Sigh.
I’m an idiot.
But an idiot who needs to remain on the TT. And both of these tasks will help with that.
As much as I love what I do, I don’t live to work. I’m one of those people who needs downtime, needs sleep, needs exercise, and needs weekends to recharge.
I’m not sure how much more work I can squeeze in during the week and still remain sane.
I guess I’m about to find out.
It would be great if I could clone myself but I’m not sure the world is ready for two of me.
Heavy sigh.
I’m hoping my old friend, the mighty Doritos, can help. And a truckload of chocolate.
Parenting Failure
1 hour ago
Hang in there PiT!
ReplyDeleteYou have to learn to say no. Play out the scenes with your Doritos.
ReplyDeleteWhat Anon. said. The ability to say no is the most important skill you can have as an academic. Seriously.
ReplyDeleteDoritos... chocolate... sleep..... peace of mind :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck PiT. And I hope soon you will be able to say no to too much work.
Yum...Nacho Cheese Doritos, and chocolate, maybe Doritos dipped in chocolate...hmmmm. :)
ReplyDeleteSending thoughts of extra energy and time your way, PiT!
I have found a good way to say 'no' to projects I either don't want to do, or have time for. Tell the person asking that you would like to think about it for 24 hours. Then actually think about it. Would it seriously help your tenure process; would it cut into class prep, research, writing, family time etc and if yes, is that ok? If you know from the outset that you simply can't take on another project here's what you say instead of outright no. Say, "I have given serious consideration to this project and at the present time I simply cannot devote the time that I feel this project deserves." This saves you and the person asking some face and gives you the way to say no, without sounding like a jerk in the process.
ReplyDeleteJust remember not to combust in a ball of Dorito flames. Kthxbai.
ReplyDeleteAt least we get to hear you swear a lot more. I love that
ReplyDeleteAB
I'm a little late on reading and response, but I was recently given the advice by biochemist academic to be strategic about what to take on and not to do anything that does not contribute solidly to the career direction. Saying no is ok. In addition, be sure to keep balance by socializing and exercising. No matter what you do, everyone is replaceable in academia, and you need to do things to make your life liveable and enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteGood luck!