Weeknote #3: Turns out I like writing, who knew?
One reason I want to do consulting and freelance work is so I can get back to being close to actual research. This week it started to feel like that was happening.
The big focus for this weeknote
Maybe it’s because it’ll be my first proper bit of paid work, but getting to sit and write an in-depth feature this week felt like a total joy. Finding the narrative, navigating three detailed interview transcripts, balancing emotion and explanation. These are the challenges that get me motivated about science writing.
A chat over coffee at the University of British Columbia also prompted me to revisit some of my favourite things I’ve written — it’s been a while since I needed to supply writing samples. But it really helped me focus on what I enjoy producing and see the projects that have shaped how I think about editorial content.
A content strategy that just says “this has happened” isn’t really going to cut it.
Wins and progress
I’ve submitted a few proposals now and each time it’s helping me think and reflect on what I want to offer.
I finished and submitted that feature article, which will hopefully be out next month.
Visited the University of British Columbia for a meeting. There’s something about a uni campus in September that really gets you motivated.
Continued the Canadian networking mission with more calls to help build my understanding of the science and research comms scene.
In life news: the contents of our shipping container arrived from the UK! That means this weekend we’ll be reuniting the kids with toys.
What’s on my mind
The gap between making a successful proposal and locking it in feels like an age. Maybe that’ll change with time.
Not having to run things past a thousand people is both liberating and scary.
I’ve shied away from many networking opportunities in previous work lives. But right now I’m enjoying needing to do it.
We're shifting seasons. Let's see what Autumn has to offer
My takeaway
Stepping back into writing this week reminded me of valuable core skills I offer, which I needed. And writing a weeknote helps. The choices you make while writing something reflect your values. And even just talking about the process of writing something has been really motivating.
In recent years I’ve felt that other career trajectories can force you to leave some of that behind or discount it.
But I believe you can do both and the combination is valuable.
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