I read an essay years ago on the "writing is therapy" idea that was clarifying. It said that it can be therapeutic if you're actively able to create a narrative of what happened. I can't remember how well-researched the essay was, but there's a level of that that rings true for me.
It seems that your short hiatus from writing Navel Gazing was very useful. Congratulations on your quick progress, especially finishing your coursework. I'm sure you will sail through your prelims. I never allowed a student to sit for their prelims unless I was certain they were ready. Only once did I vote to fail a student, but that was for denying any need to understand a broad area of his subject matter. PhD programs are fraught with ups and downs, and I know you have thought about throwing in the towel. (I think all doctoral students contemplate ending their program).
I fully understand wanting more time on your book. I still see things I wish I could have improved in my first book, and mine was published 8 years ago. My current book is very difficult, and I have stalled several times recently. But I jut have to shrug off my hesistation and get back to writing. Even if you don't meet your current schedule, I think it is critically important to get such a personal book right.
I hope that you don't regret your Fulbright in the long run. Even though my Fulbright ultimately led me away from academia, I am very grateful for the transformation that the Fulbright enabled for me.
I'm at a stage in my career where I only want to write, walk, and play the violin. I gave up my consulting business to focus on writing. So far, I am not happy with my productivity and time management, but I hope to improve. I have a lot of friends who think about writing all the time, and I am getting there.
I am very much looking forward to your book and to following your adventures along the way.
Thank you for this reflection, Tom. I don't regret my Fulbright and I don't think I ever will. If anything, I regret not just letting myself be there and setting aside the book for a few months to enjoy it. But that's life, you know? We can't go back. The past is only there to learn from- not to change.
Wow, this grace you’re learning to give yourself to let go of judgement, to not write a perfect book (impossible), even while doing your best to make it as truthful and well-crafted as you can. Congratulations on getting to this point in the book writing and the graduate studies!
I read an essay years ago on the "writing is therapy" idea that was clarifying. It said that it can be therapeutic if you're actively able to create a narrative of what happened. I can't remember how well-researched the essay was, but there's a level of that that rings true for me.
That definitely rings true for me. Creating a narrative, even if there isn't any "closure" has helped me let go of things I was clinging to, for sure.
The writing struggle has helped me break through some big challenges. Yes, it has been therapeutic. 😌
I’m so happy and relieved for you both for your self love and acceptance AND your accomplishments. You’re an amazing person, truly ♥️
Thank you, Sandra 🥹
It seems that your short hiatus from writing Navel Gazing was very useful. Congratulations on your quick progress, especially finishing your coursework. I'm sure you will sail through your prelims. I never allowed a student to sit for their prelims unless I was certain they were ready. Only once did I vote to fail a student, but that was for denying any need to understand a broad area of his subject matter. PhD programs are fraught with ups and downs, and I know you have thought about throwing in the towel. (I think all doctoral students contemplate ending their program).
I fully understand wanting more time on your book. I still see things I wish I could have improved in my first book, and mine was published 8 years ago. My current book is very difficult, and I have stalled several times recently. But I jut have to shrug off my hesistation and get back to writing. Even if you don't meet your current schedule, I think it is critically important to get such a personal book right.
I hope that you don't regret your Fulbright in the long run. Even though my Fulbright ultimately led me away from academia, I am very grateful for the transformation that the Fulbright enabled for me.
I'm at a stage in my career where I only want to write, walk, and play the violin. I gave up my consulting business to focus on writing. So far, I am not happy with my productivity and time management, but I hope to improve. I have a lot of friends who think about writing all the time, and I am getting there.
I am very much looking forward to your book and to following your adventures along the way.
Thank you for this reflection, Tom. I don't regret my Fulbright and I don't think I ever will. If anything, I regret not just letting myself be there and setting aside the book for a few months to enjoy it. But that's life, you know? We can't go back. The past is only there to learn from- not to change.
You’re doing amazing job at life!!! Cheering for you!!! 🌟🎉🌟
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Wow, this grace you’re learning to give yourself to let go of judgement, to not write a perfect book (impossible), even while doing your best to make it as truthful and well-crafted as you can. Congratulations on getting to this point in the book writing and the graduate studies!
Imperfect but whole. Love that.