Week 74, Day 512.
Firstly, thank you so much to my 400+ followers! ❤
What I write about has clearly interested/helped some of you, which makes even the tough phases of this PhD worthwhile. I’ve had a few of you asking me questions and looking for tips; please don’t hesitate to contact me, I’ll advise as best as I can.
As I’d predicted, last week was a lot more positive and productive than the previous two, which has definitely benefited my mental state. I had a chat with my supervisors about the way I’d been feeling (lost, unmotivated, confused, frustrated, overwhelmed etc.) and they said that it’s completely normal to feel that way sometimes (especially in second year), that I’m doing well, and will be alright. They also gave me some guidance as to what I should be focusing on now, so I feel like I have a direction again. My favourite bit of advice from them was to cut out anything/anyone that is adding to my stress levels/inhibiting my progress, and that it’s okay to be selfish and direct. “Doing a PhD is not so much about the work that you’re doing, but more about how you deliver it, and to what standard.” 🌟
It took an honest conversation for me to feel better about my life, so don’t be afraid to have them.
Later on that week, one of my supervisors also admitted that they have no idea how I manage to maintain my blog amongst everything else that is going on and said that they couldn’t do it. Considering they’re the head of department, that was probably one of the greatest compliments I’ve ever received.
Photo: Mood. Source: Tumblr.
The other extremely exciting and positive thing from last week was that my long haul work trip in May/June has been confirmed! Tickets bought and all. I won’t be saying exactly where I’m going until I’m there, but it’s somewhere in the US! Hype. ✈
On the topic of travel, I currently have at least one trip booked in every month until September, and that is without any additional company site visits, which will be plenty. It’s going to be a very busy year, and I need to try and keep my calm and wits about me. Wish me luck.
I also haven’t had a red bull in like a month... Who am I?! Have I evolved?!
Photo: A hint to where I’m going in summer. Source: Google.
A great week was concluded with a fantastic weekend. On Friday, I went to a local cat cafe to unwind for an hour, which was purrfect (sorry not sorry). 🐈
On Saturday, I went to see one of my absolute top artists in concert, Post Malone, who was incredible. Totally worth every second people have told me I’m weird for liking him and his music. Fork you. You’re all wrong. In any case, don’t ever judge people for what makes them happy or tell them who they should or shouldn’t like. Austin Post was one of the most humble and down to earth artists I’ve ever had the pleasure to see live, and who I will most definitely see again. 🤘
I would like to point out that I went to both, the cat cafe and the gig on my own. Don’t be afraid to do what you love, even if it means going it alone. You’ll only regret it if you don’t.
Anyway, I am full of positive vibes for the busy week ahead, so bring it on. Today already started with me helping tutor first years on hydraulics in civil engineering; something I know very little about. Goodbye comfort zone.
May have to crack open a red bull after all. Have an awesome week and remember that you have a voice and a choice in everything you do (within limits).
Photo: Austin Richard Post, because he was 110% the highlight of my week.