On actually achieving goals
A few years ago, I read a short article about how of the people who make resolutions in January, more than half will …
Ruminations on the work/life balance lie
Full disclosure: I hate the phrase “work/life balance.” The phrase and associated societal conversations are too simplistic and set an unrealistic bar, …
Dear Employers: Dos and Don’ts for Virtual Interviews
I’m chairing a search committee this semester, and in light of continued COVID conditions (as well as efficiency, of course), we’re conducting …
10 Ways to Improve Your Academic Writing
When I teach academic writing, I always notice how stressed students get—especially graduate students—wanting to get it right immediately. I explain that …
The fine line between kvetching and co-rumination
It’s a fact of modern life: You need someone who gets life’s little annoyances. And since many of those irritations are work-related, it …
The Power of Communicating Gratitude
When the box arrived, I was sprawled out on the couch staring the ceiling, contemplating a 10-minute power-nap between meetings. Like every …
When your go-to burnout management strategies stop working
“Have you become cynical or critical at work?” Well, my self-appointed nickname is Cynical Shawna. “Do you drag yourself to work and …
Trying (and failing) to care less
Normally when a new semester starts, I think about what I want to accomplish–for myself professionally, with my students, in the department/university. …
101 Pat-Downs Reviews
One of the scariest things about publishing a book? Waiting for the feedback. I’ve been on pins and needles the last couple …
101 Pat-Downs
One of the scariest things about publishing a book? Waiting for the feedback. I’ve been on pins and needles the last couple …