On staying motivated as your academic career unfolds (or you can't keep playing the same tune).
A friend recently commented that he didn't want to become an academic "has-been." He had watched too many senior scholars struggle to stay relevant - with the quality of paper acceptances decline, the methods they used become less popular, & their topics fall out of favor.
Rather than a slow decline, my friend suggested that it was healthier to find new pursuits. So, he was looking at starting a new program or taking on an admin position to reinvigorate his career.
While my friend's point about a "has been" did not yet resonate, his comments on doing new things & staying engaged struck home.
Academic careers are long. It's important to stay engaged with your discipline & in the broader academy.
If you are not mindful of the changing context, it's easy to be left behind.
So how do you know when it is time to refresh? Or if it is time to seek new opportunities?
First, take some time to read papers written by early career faculty.
While we tend to focus on papers written by familiar names, often, the bleeding edge work comes from people just starting their careers.
Ask, "are these papers building on your work?"
If it is not, you may need to think about how to connect with the next generation of scholars.
Second, ask, "Do I understand the research methods?"
If the answer is no, & you do not see work using your preferred hammer in journals, perhaps it's time to retool.
Third, ask, "can I see how to extend the studies?"
If the answer is no, & you don't see how your work aligns with the field, perhaps it is time to update your thinking about research.
Note: I do not say these things in a judgy way - I'm retooling even now - & updating my thinking about what is essential.
Fourth, if you've answered no to all three questions, give some thought to a career pivot.
I am cognizant that very few people publish at a "top level" throughout their careers.
If you don't feel like updating your methods & topics, consider contributing to the academy or your uni through service & teaching roles.
If done with research, we can contribute by taking on admin roles (department chair anyone?), developing new programs, leading outreach efforts & in many other ways.
Finally, if you are unwilling to retool or pivot, perhaps, it is time to hang up your hat.
Knowing when to retire is important.
No, this is not an #OKBoomer moment. This is a blanket statement about faculty of all ages who stop contributing.
It's a conversation that many #academics are reluctant to have - because the #seniorfaculty hold the most power.
So, I'm sure some will disapprove that I point out the uncomfortable - so be it - I'll never be a #topjournaleditor or #dean anyway!
Knowing when to #retool, #pivot, or #quit is important, bc life is short & we should all find work meaningful!
Have a great weekend!
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