20805 - Thrive, Don’t Just Survive: Work-Life Strategies for Graduate Students and Early-Career Faculty

Description

The future of work in academia is rapidly evolving, yet the culture of overwork and burnout remains deeply ingrained. Reimagining the Future of Work requires us to rethink not only how we conduct research and teaching but also how we sustain fulfilling academic careers without sacrificing well-being. This workshop is designed to equip graduate students and early-career faculty with the strategies necessary to thrive—rather than merely survive—amidst the shifting demands of academic life.

Participants will engage in an interactive, solutions-focused session addressing:
•Debunking imposter syndrome and redefining success.
•Strategic goal setting to align professional ambitions with well-being.
•Working smarter, not harder through task-stacking, prioritization, and efficient scheduling.
•Developing sustainable work-life boundaries and learning to say “no” without guilt.
•Navigating mentorship and professional networks for support and career advancement.
•Documenting professional growth for promotions, grants, and career planning.
•Prioritizing holistic well-being—balancing physical, mental, and social health.
•Cultivating a professional and personal identities beyond academia to ensure long-term resilience.

By the end of the session, attendees will leave with a personalized "Success Blueprint", outlining concrete action steps for implementing these strategies. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to join an accountability network to sustain their progress beyond the conference.

In an era where work expectations are increasingly unpredictable, this workshop empowers scholars to proactively shape their careers in a way that is both professionally rewarding and personally sustainable.

Learning Goals/Objectives:
1.Equip participants with practical tools to balance productivity and well-being.
2.Provide strategies to combat imposter syndrome, manage workloads, and set clear goals.
3.Foster a reimagined approach to work that prioritizes long-term sustainability.
4.Help attendees integrate, but not be consumed by, their professional identities.
5.Establish a peer-support network for ongoing success and accountability.

Sub Unit

• Workshops / Professional Development Workshop

Presenter

• Daniel J Bartholomay, University Of North Dakota

Session Organizer

• Daniel J Bartholomay, University Of North Dakota