In this section, an experienced academic work coach answers a series of FAQs and offers advice to academic educators on managing their wellbeing and thriving in their academic role.

Hear from Dr Jenny English,  academic work coach..
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1. What are the most important psychological skills that academics need to thrive in their role?

  • Self-regulation: To be able to set goals and stick to them, or to re-evaluate, and keep your eye on those goals.
  • Self-awareness: to understand what your stress points are, and what energises and keeps you going.
  • Good boundaries: Understanding what your role is and developing the skills to work within that role.
  • Good help-seeking skills: knowing how to seek help when you feel you are moving outside the boundaries of your role.
  • Good work/life balance: To know that work has a place in your life, and to also engage in other meaningful activities.
  • Resilience: the ability to keep going and bounce back. this will grow out of the self-regulation, self-awareness, knowing the boundaries, and keeping yourself motivated.

2. What advice would you offer to junior or casual academic educators who have the extra stress of job insecurity?

This can be a difficult situation. It is important to:

  • Think of the bigger picture: Keep your eye on your goals and the bigger picture of your career;
  • Enjoy the present: Find ways to enjoy the present role with all its opportunities.
  • Find a coach: A coach or a mentor can help  develop and guide your career.

3. What advice would you offer to mid- or later- career academics who may have lost energy and enthusiasm for their work?

This can be a difficult situation. It is important to:

  • Set goals: look at what motivates you, what gives you purpose and meaning (re-align your goals, if appropriate).
  • Network: Participate in new committees and working groups to bring new perspectives and new people into your life.
  • Exercise: Doing exercise before work can help to manage motivation and energy levels throughout the day.
  • Conduct a life-style audit: Consider your eating and sleeping habits. Look at how you have fun.

4. What advice would you offer an academic staff member who reports experiencing symptoms that may indicate anxiety or depression?

Anxiety and depression are very different experiences with a range of symptoms. These can be difficult and distressing experiences, but they can also be overcome with appropriate support. Two important things to do are:

  • Speak to someone – a friend, a mentor, or a professional, and ask for help.
  • Don’t punish yourself for feelings of anxiety or depression. Anxiety can be self-perpetuating, especially when people feel frustrated, confused, or guilty  about their anxiety. Depression can also lead to self-defeating behaviour. It is important recognise when you are having these experiences, and to find ways to manage them.
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