Romanticizing My PhD Life: Finding Joy from 5pm-9pm

As I complete the ABD (All But Dissertation) stage of my PhD, I’ve found myself longing for something simple yet elusive: balance. The demands of research, writing, and deadlines can consume so much of life that sometimes I wonder, “Where did my life go?” That’s when I realized—it’s not about waiting for the dissertation to be done to reclaim my time. I need to enjoy the journey now.

Inspired by the idea of romanticizing my life, I’ve decided to approach my PhD with a new mindset. This concept of romanticizing life isn’t about making drastic changes or adding anything new; it’s more about taking a moment to appreciate where I am, finding joy in the little things, and embracing each day with a sense of gratitude. I’ve chosen to carve out time between 5pm and 9pm each day to focus on making this part of my life feel intentional, fulfilling, and—yes—a little bit romantic.

Here’s how I’m planning to do it:

1. Transform My Workspace into a Sanctuary

I’m making my workspace feel like a place I want to be, rather than just somewhere I have to work. Soft lighting, a soothing playlist, and a few personal touches like candles and my favorite books can go a long way in making the hours spent at my desk more enjoyable. By turning it into a cozy, inspiring environment, even research time can feel special.

2. Create Meaningful Daily Habits

I’m introducing simple but meaningful habits that help me shift from work mode into a more relaxed state. Whether it’s sipping a cup of tea as the day winds down, stepping outside for a breath of fresh air, or taking a slow walk to enjoy the evening, these small practices help me savor the moment and reset my mind.

3. Celebrate the Small Victories

Gratitude is at the heart of romanticizing life. Instead of focusing on what’s left to do, I’m choosing to celebrate the progress I’ve made. Whether it’s finishing a section of my dissertation or simply getting through a challenging day, acknowledging these small wins gives me a sense of accomplishment and helps me stay motivated.

4. Find Beauty in the Everyday

It’s easy to overlook the beauty in daily life when we’re focused on the end goal, but I’m learning to find joy in the simple, ordinary moments. Preparing dinner, journaling my thoughts, or even just sitting outside and watching the sunset—these are opportunities to slow down and appreciate life as it happens.

5. Embrace Rest Without Guilt

One of the most important lessons I’m learning is to give myself permission to rest. Sometimes, stepping away from the dissertation for an hour or two to watch a movie, read a book, or take a long bath is exactly what I need to recharge. By allowing myself to rest without feeling guilty, I’m reminding myself that taking care of my well-being is just as important as the work I’m doing.

6. Enjoy the Process, Not Just the Outcome

This phase of my PhD journey is not just about the destination—it’s about the process. The late-night writing sessions, the breakthroughs in research, and even the tough days are all part of the experience. By shifting my focus from “getting through it” to “enjoying it,” I’m finding more fulfillment in the everyday work.

7. Invite Joyful Connections

Lastly, I’m making room for joy through connection. Whether it’s a quick call to a friend, sharing a funny story, or reflecting on my progress with a loved one, these moments of connection bring lightness to my day and remind me that I’m not in this journey alone.

A Daily Commitment to Joy

By romanticizing my life from 5pm to 9pm, I’m creating a space where work and life can coexist in harmony. This approach allows me to embrace the demands of my PhD while also making time for gratitude, play, and rest. It’s a gentle reminder that life isn’t waiting on the other side of the dissertation—it’s happening now.

This shift in perspective is helping me to see that the journey itself can be beautiful, even in the midst of hard work. From cozy evenings spent writing to small moments of reflection, I’m choosing to enjoy the present and celebrate where I am in this process.

What about you? Are you looking for ways to reclaim balance and find joy in your own journey? Let me know your thoughts in the comments, or feel free to share how you’re romanticizing your life, too!

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Would love to hear how others are making space for joy amidst busy schedules!