The term is over, classes are done.  So, what is next?  It’s time for a holiday. My list of reasons why I know a holiday is overdue, are the following:

• You get nervous when your computer is out of sight (what if someone steals it!!!).
• Your idea of going for a quick coffee includes a highlighter and a couple of scholarly articles.
• The definition of a great café is multiple power outlets.
• Half an hour of unscheduled time means you can fix multiple issues with endnote.
• A social event is meeting your advisor at Thomson House to work on your research proposal.
• Insomnia is time well spent – more time to keep on working.
• Having defended your competency papers is a creepy – there is momentarily no stress, no deadlines (I can’t take it).
• All compulsory course work is completed –  so sign up for more classes (cannot imagine not taking classes.)
• Gym membership? – oh yeah – I forgot all about that.
• Writing check lists is an essential start to the day.
• After looking for the salt shaker for ½ hr, you find it in the fridge.  How did it get there?
• Procrastination is viewed as an art form.
• Suddenly, every article looks exactly like the planned dissertation. Breathing stops. What if everything on the chosen topic has already been said. Panic sets in.
• Weekends?  There is a difference between one day of the week and another?
• Sunny weather is depressing.  Rain is more conducive to getting work done.
• The thought of a holiday causes stress.

A tropical paradise, perfect sunset – bring it on. What are some of your indicators that R and R are overdue?

Photo by Heather M.