Career

Academic De-cluttering

March 17, 2019 / Comments Off on Academic De-cluttering
Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

It seems like de-cluttering is all the rage at the moment. Whether it be our sock drawer or that odd cupboard with kitchen utensils, sorting, clearing and rearranging our lives can give us a feeling of empowerment and control, and help to reveal what is really important.

But what about our professional lives? Are they in need of de-cluttering also?

Academic careers are funny things: as we become more senior, there are more opportunities, more invitations, and more projects to get involved in. We sometimes become so busy that there isn’t a chance to think strategically about what we are saying ‘yes’ to, and why.

While it may be hard and politically undesirable to de-clutter our existing obligations, we do have control and agency over the things we agree to take on in the future.

Some recommend we learn how to say ‘no’, and say it often. That is certainly an important skill. But perhaps more importantly, when should we say ‘yes’?

For general de-cluttering, current wisdom is that we should embrace whatever brings us joy. Of course, many possessions do not bring joy – especially things that are functional or necessary, but hardly exciting.

Academic careers can be similar: in teaching/research posts, we need to maintain a balance between our teaching, research and service commitments, whether or not that gives us joy, and we have certain obligations as teachers and members of Faculty. But beyond that, what should inform our decision making process? When should we say yes, and when should something be thrown away or abandoned?

Here are the things I prioritise:

  • If something is beyond my core obligations (i.e. my set teaching or service), is it a “hell yes!” or, alternatively, does it spark a feeling of joy or excitement?
  • Does it fit into my career narrative or identity? Does it further my broader career aspirations or goals? Or is it leading me down a (very attractive) garden path?
  • Is this different to what I have done before? Will it challenge me and help me develop as an academic and a scholar?
  • Do I have the time to undertake this properly, without compromising my other work or commitments? How does this fit with my other deadlines and obligations?
  • Who will I be working with? Do they bring me joy?