Second Saturday Scholars

Join us every second Saturday of the month (or any other day!) as we each meet in personal and virtual spaces across the globe to engage in research and writing projects. There will be no program, simply encouragement to gather and hold one another accountable for the good work of research and writing.

You could consider at least three different types of in-person or virtual spaces :

• Writers’ Room – quiet space to sit with others who are writing
• Writing Process Space – some initial goal setting and guidance with blocks of time to write
• Critical Friends Space – topical help, writing revision, and other discussions

And don't forget, as you take breaks during your writing, please post about your day using #NACADAwrites

How should I prepare?

• Block out the time on your calendar.
• Find & reserve a place to work that is free from distraction, offers the ideal workspace for your needs, and is conveniently located.
• Plan your writing time so that you have scheduled breaks and your favorite beverage or food/snack so that your workspace is sustainable.
• Inform family and close friends (who may need you) where you’ll be and that you’ll be working on a professional project that requires concentration and focus.

What do I need to watch out for?

• Prepare to control temptations and distractions that may derail your progress. (Keep a notepad handy to jot down “things to do” that may come to your mind…this way you won’t be tempted to drop your writing.)
• Prepare to feel a bit anxious. Plan now for how you’ll begin or where you’ll begin. What will be your first task?

What can I reasonably expect to accomplish?

• Your accomplishments and goals for the day depend on the time you have to devote to writing. Your goals are also dependent on what you’re working on:
  • If you’re already in the middle of a project, it’s appropriate to expect to finish a number of pages of writing if you’re devoting several hours to the work. If you’re working on an outline or a plan, it’s appropriate to expect to complete it during the day.
  • If you’re just beginning a project, you could reasonably complete an outline or research several resources during the writing period.
  • It’s not appropriate to think you can write an entire journal article in one day, but you can expect to make significant progress. For example, you could outline the entire article, or complete a significant portion of the literature review, perhaps.

How will I know if I’m successful?

• In the end, if you devote even an hour or two, completely free from other distractions and work, to your own writing and research, you have succeeded.
• In addition, if you accomplish the goals you set for the day, you were successful.

How should I end the session to ensure I am energized to do it again?

• At the end of the writing period, take time for reflection: ask yourself what you will do differently next time to make your writing time even more successful and appropriate for you.
• Write 2 or 3 “next steps” for yourself that will remind you of where you are and what you need to do next.
• Schedule your next writing session so that you keep working toward your ultimate goal.

“Who Cares?” How can I hold myself accountable and how can I encourage others doing the same thing?

• If you’re a member of a writing group, share your progress and success from the writing day with them during your next meeting.
• If you’re not a member of a writing group, ask one of your colleagues or friends to serve as an accountability partner for you. Share with them your ultimate writing goal, describe the progress you’ve made already, and explain your next steps and future plans. Give that colleague permission to ask you about your goals periodically for accountability purposes.