As academia braces for changes in 2025, feelings of fear and uncertainty loom large. The importance of self-awareness and defining personal purpose amid external pressures is crucial for a fulfilling career. Researchers and professors are encouraged to reflect on their motivations for entering the field. By embracing their purpose, they can navigate potential challenges, including budget cuts and defunding. Ultimately, this emphasis on intention can empower individuals to craft a sustainable and impactful academic journey.
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insights INSIGHT
Political Climate and Academia
Academia, especially in the US, is facing potential negative impacts from political shifts.
These changes may include altered research funding and valuations.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Self-Care as Resistance
Prioritize self-care physically and mentally, especially in the face of academic changes.
This includes healthy habits and setting boundaries with work.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Reflect on Your "Why"
Reflect on your reasons for entering academia.
Use this clarity to navigate changes and design a fulfilling career.
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Academia is evolving, and the upcoming administrative and political shifts in 2025 can lead to feelings of fear and uncertainty. While we don't know the impact of these changes yet, it's important to acknowledge that your relationship with academia and your career may look different over the next four years. Whether you're a researcher, a professor, or in another academic role, how you relate to your work—and how you take care of yourself in the process—will be key to adapting to these changes.
In today's episode, I discuss the importance of understanding why you entered academia in the first place. As external pressures intensify and academia transforms, it's essential to center yourself and define your purpose. This clarity can help you craft a sustainable, fulfilling career and navigate the potential challenges ahead. Whether you are worried about budget cuts, defunding, or other vulnerabilities, I encourage you to embrace your purpose and take control by designing the academic career you want.
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Cathy’s book, Making Time to Write: How to Resist the Patriarchy and Take Control of Your Academic Career Through Writing is available in print! Learn how to build your career around your writing practice while shattering the myths of writing every day, accountability, and motivation, doing mindset work that’s going to reshape your writing,and changing academic culture one womxn and nonbinary professor at a time. Get your print copy today or order it for a friend here!
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