Well hello, stranger…
As a researcher, writing is part of my everyday life. It comes naturally to me and many others in the writing field, be it research or creative writing. However, there are days that we completely shut off. You end up staring at a blank document for hours, typing and deleting paragraphs over and over again. It messes with your mind and you start doubting your abilities. I read a post by 
The view from our writing location this week. A small coffee shop name Coffee Talks.
We realized that getting together keeps us motivated and holds us accountable. Everyone always mentions that the PhD journey is lonely, and we decided to change that. Communities and networking are there to support, motivate and guide you. So why do we forget about our peers when starting a PhD? It’s the perfect time to make use of your support systems, networks, and the people in your field. We learn by interacting with others, having conversations on less researched topics, hearing someone else opinion and worldview, asking questions about their research, etc. These networking opportunities allow us to get feedback on our projects, research, articles, or even the way we present our lectures.
The meet-up before the long day started. This picture only shows the women of our group, but I promise there are four amazing male academics among us.
One thing I had to learn was that feedback and criticism are two different things… Hear me out. I’ve always viewed feedback as a negative critique and whenever someone would give me advice during these writing weeks, I would be disappointed in myself. But advice is there to help you improve! Now I look forward to these writing weeks, I want to present to my peers what I have done and asked them for input to improve.
We are currently in the mid of another one of our writing weeks. Presentations were held on Monday and everyone had the opportunity to present their current project or article. Afterwards, the floor was open for us to discuss alternative methodologies, implementation, policies and so much more. We pick a nice and quiet coffee shop just outside of town. It is out in nature (as much nature as one can get within an urban area), with ducks walking around and a natural fountain giving one a calm feeling.
On Tuesday we all fled to our spots, to get some reading done seeing that we received a lot of suggestions on Monday. Two of my colleagues picked spots in the sun since it’s still winter in South Africa.
Two of my colleagues enjoying their reading time in the sun. Spot the donkeys keeping Jena company.
While they were reading up on topics, I was wandering around the grounds trying to think of a different way to approach my current research. I was able to clear my mind in the open air, something I hardly get to do at the office. Within a short time, I adapted my research and was able to discuss it with a few of my colleagues.
My colleague and I discussed a different approach to my research. Input is always helpful, even when you don't end up using it. Peek the googly eyes on my laptop 👀.
These writing weeks are important to use, for they bring us together. We are able to remind one another about different research methods, tools we can use, policies blocking our way and so much more. While the goal is to sit down and write for a week and make progress, we are also able to give emotional support to those who feel overwhelmed, give a piece of advice, and hype each other up. Other departments on our campus have questioned these writing weeks we have; Is it worth it? Aren’t you guys wasting time? Is it any different from the office? And the answer to all those questions is yes! A change of scenery is so important. I stare at the same green board every day, pinned with motivational quotes and work that still needs to be done. Getting out of the office and clearing my mind allows for a flow with no limits.
These little feather friends were walking around the grounds the entire day. Watching them swim around in circles is hypnotizing, and they make it look so easy. It made me realize that once you get the hang of something it becomes second nature.
So next time when you find yourself staring at a blank document, take your work on a date for the day. It can even be a coffee shop. If you feel alone on your writing journey, be it PhD, academics, or creative writing, call a colleague, a fellow student, or even a friend and ask them for support. Just because you’re the one busy with this journey does not mean you can’t have a few cheerleaders on the sideline.
I know Jena appreciated her cheerleaders today!
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