Joyful Research
Sustaining Motivation and Purpose in Research
2 hours, online or in person
Maintaining motivation and a sense of purpose can be challenging across research careers, particularly in the context of uncertainty, competing demands and long project timelines.
This workshop supports participants to reconnect with the aspects of research that feel meaningful, engaging and motivating, and to use these insights to inform their ongoing work and future career planning.
We explore three interconnected areas:
- The joy of research: the elements within their research that they find especially valuable, transformational and intellectual engaging
- The joyful research experience: experiences across the research journey that have been energising and developmental
- The joyful life: the personal values and goals that shape how they want to work, live and build their career.
Through guided reflection and structured exercises, participants will identify what sustains their motivation, recognise the skills and interests they are developing, and clarify how these align with their longer-term goals.
Participants will leave with a clearer sense of direction, alongside practical ways to sustain motivation and make more intentional decisions about their research and career.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will have learned:
- to identify aspects of their research that are meaningful, engaging and motivating
- to recognise experiences and activities within their research journey that support sustained motivation and energy
- to articulate the skills, interests and strengths they are developing through their research
- how personal values influence decision-making, motivation and career direction
- how to align their research activities and future plans with their values and longer-term goals