Let’s be honest—summer was not built for academic hustle. Between backyard BBQs, beach trips, and “just one more episode” marathons, staying focused on your doctoral goals in June feels like trying to read in a wind tunnel. Distractions are loud, frequent, and often way more fun than writing your lit review.
But here’s the truth: summer distractions don’t have to derail your progress. You can enjoy the season and make meaningful strides toward your goals—it just takes a plan, some boundaries, and a little humor.
1. Set Summer Hours (Yes, Like a Job)
Designate specific days or time blocks during the week that are strictly for your doctoral work. Think of it as your “academic office hours.” The rest of the time? Guilt-free summer fun.
- Try a 3/2 model: 3 focused workdays, 2 off days
- Use mornings when it’s quiet (and cooler)
- Treat it like an appointment you don’t cancel
2. Create a Distraction Playlist
This is not for dancing—it’s for drowning out noise. Instrumental study playlists, white noise, or ambient sounds can help you stay on track when your mind wants to wander to frozen drinks or flight deals.
- Lo-fi hip hop
- Rain or ocean sounds
- Focus apps like Brain.fm or Endel
3. Reward Your Future Self
Productivity doesn’t mean punishment. Set a short, reasonable goal for the day and reward yourself when it’s done.
- Finish revising a chapter? Go grab ice cream.
- Submit your IRB edits? Queue up a Netflix episode.
- Finish your reading? Take a nap in the sun.
Make the process feel like progress, not pressure.
4. Create a Weekly “Win List”
At the end of each week, jot down 2–3 things you accomplished—no matter how small. Progress in the summer may feel slower, but it’s still progress.
Keep the list visible to remind yourself: You’re doing it—even if it’s not fast or flashy.
5. Don’t Let Summer Trolls Win
The “trolls” aren’t just beach days and social invites—they’re also that inner voice whispering:
“You should’ve done more.”
“You’ll never finish this chapter.”
“Everyone else is further ahead than you.”
Shut that voice down. You’re showing up. You’re staying in the game. That’s what matters.
TL;DR:
Set boundaries, plan breaks, celebrate wins, and protect your peace.
Summer doesn’t have to be a setback—it can be the season you took steady, meaningful steps forward.
And when the trolls show up?
Smile, sip your iced coffee, and write anyway.
