Doing a Ph.D. is a daunting task. Graduate students have to be self-motivated and self-governing. In the instance I lose motivation to keep working on my research, I like to engage in tasks that are not taxing on the mind but will get my motor running. Here is a list of things you could do when you have the energy to complete tasks but don’t want to work on your research.

Eight ways to work on the non-research aspects of your Ph.D.

1. Brush up your LinkedIn or CV/ Resume: Maintaining an active presence on Linked in or other social profiles is a great way to start communicating with the academic community. As a bonus, it can also help you land jobs/ internships. There are a lot of tips and tricks online on how to set up and amp up your profile. For CVs or resumes, I use a resume checker located here.
2. Grow your network:  Are there people you spoke to at a conference or read their work whom you would like to contact? This would be a great time to reach out. There are multiple resources on how to write out that initial email here or how to follow up. I think the best way to reach your mentors is to connect and be genuinely excited about your and their work.
3. Make/ update your website: A website is a great way to showcase your skills and interests. You can also use it as an online portfolio for your work. You can get a domain name, name it, and think about content. Or, if you already have a website, you can update and maintain it.
4. Thesis Thursdays: Some days are dedicated to your thesis, but not in a typical way. You can write the cover letter, adjust the margins and template, and write out your acknowledgments for extra motivation.
5. Do you have new software you would like to install or learn? This could be for general note-keeping or transferring data. I like to learn new ways to back up my data and create encrypted harddisks to backup data.
6. Update to your research protocols and logistics: Is there any specific training you need to renew? If you need to maintain an IRB, check and organize documents and renewal dates. Do you need to order new equipment or replenish it?
7. Plan your next read: this could be for academic reasons or not. You could select several papers that you would like to read. For new Ph.D. students, this would be crucial in staying organized and ensuring that their notes and papers are accessible when needed. Therefore, creating and maintaining paper organization software (some are: Mandalay, Zortaro, OneNote, etc..) and naming conventions will save you a lot of time when writing papers.
8. Get some side hustles: are you interested in teaching, tutoring, or getting your bartending license? Finding other activities that will keep you engaged and give you a good break from research is a great way to maintain a work-life balance.