The Happy Scientist

#81 — Periodically directing your gaze inward can clarify your current position, past journey, and future aspirations.In this episode of The Happy Scientist, explore the vital practice of taking a self-inventory. Hear how to conduct this introspection effectively—steering clear of overly positive illusions, harsh self-criticism, and potential disappointment. Plus, get practical strategies for maintaining a balanced and honest self-assessment.What you learn will ultimately foster personal growth and resilience in your scientific career and ensure continuous progress without overwhelming yourself.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Ever feel a mix of frustration and nostalgia when you see new faces in the lab, fresh and full of questions? Are you the kind of person who takes them under your wing, or does their naivety annoy you and get in the way of your lab work?It's easy to forget that we all started somewhere, and mentoring these budding scientists is the key to advancing not only their careers but also science as a whole. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we explore the vital role of mentorship in the lab. Discover how you can become an effective guide for the next generation of scientists, the benefits of sharing your knowledge and experience, and the surprising ways mentorship can enrich your own professional journey.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Naked ambition is a powerful characteristic, yet it can easily become overpowering—for you and your colleagues.This could endanger your work connections and harm your reputation, especially in situations where teamwork is highly valued. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, explore the potent quality of ambition and how to use it most effectively to create accomplishment regarding tasks, projects, and career advancement.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Is your to-do list downstream of your work style, or your work style downstream of your to-do list?Do you prefer to write down everything you need to do for the day and then execute as many tasks as possible?Or do you prefer to get stuck in for the day, and then decide what you need to do?Your to-do list is your daily plan and sometimes an alarm clock. It gets you closer to your objectives by defining tasks. But, to be effective, it needs to match your working style and define what you actually need to get done. (Yes, what you need to get done and want to get done are very different!)Let's get your to-do list working for you.In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we examine different practical ways to tailor your to-do lists to your work style. You will come away from this episode with easy wins to boost your productivity without significantly changing your approach to your work routine.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#78 — In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we dive into the emotional patterns that hinder the smooth operation of any to-do list system.These emotional barriers can sabotage even the most well-crafted to-do lists. Let's get to the root of these emotional barriers and empower you to work more effectively. Join us as we explore the psychological factors that influence our productivity and learn strategies to overcome them.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#76 — At the heart of the scientific method lies the idea that perspectives are not static—they evolve, shift, and intersect as we tackle scientific problems from different perspectives and uncover new ground truths.Yet, for most of us, daily science boils down to fine details such as the particulars of experimental design, the caveats to our experiments, producing enough data to satisfy the boss, exporting your data in the correct format, and leaving the instrument ready for the next user. The list really does go on. And each item is a valid thing to focus on, depending on your perspective.But how do you maintain clarity amidst these particulars? If your project involves analyzing a bunch of numbers, how do you avoid the pitfalls of narrow-mindedness and tunnel vision? And if you were unfettered by so many details and particulars, what would the top research priority be?In this episode, we look up instead of down and refresh the importance of thinking from different perspectives to avoid tunnel vision and keep your mind open to fresh ideas.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#75 — We're told from a young age that patience is a virtue. But does that hold up to scrutiny?In some respects, it seems so, given that impatience can be annoying to experience and make you unbearable to the people you're waiting on.But what are the consequences of excessive patience? Does it become a pathological trait that results in excess tolerance and forbearance, which, in turn, stop you from getting what you want and perhaps make you afraid to stand up for yourself?And remember, science is about defending your ideas and speaking up when you think something is wrong. Plus, whether we like it or not, science as a job and industry can be extremely competitive.So, what can you do that gets you the benefits of patience without giving in to concession? Can you turn it on and off like a tap to get what you want? That's what we'll explore in this episode of The Happy Scientist. Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#74 — How we feel about completing certain tasks and the people they involve have a massive impact on whether or not we do those tasks or how quickly and carefully we get them done.You know—when a job involves dealing with that person, sending that email, or dealing with that instrument. Or when your stress levels build up so much that you lay out a heap of things you want done and tell everyone involved in an ill-tempered way.And we all respond differently to people who nag, condescend, and micromanage—and most of us will put off situations that risk showing gaps in our abilities, even if it's to our detriment. The combination of these ultimately dictates what makes it onto our to-do list. But should they?What would happen if you could become aware of these often rational but unhelpful emotional responses? Could it make you more productive, more dependable, and more influential? Would it give you the experience and confidence to handle uncomfortable situations?In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we examine how our feelings about completing certain tasks impact our planning process and to-do list and explore the helpful traits we can gain by moving past these feelings.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#73 — Why do you do science?Is it your passion, is it to make an impact, is it just the way you make your living, or something else?Whatever the reason, having a clear sense of your purpose matters. It can help you deal with major and minor challenges, cope with setbacks, and help you reflect on the professional success and value of your career choices to sustain your development.Or perhaps you feel dispassionate about doing science. And if you do, is it just a temporary phase or a sign that your current role is somehow misaligned with what you want from life? In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we'll explore how being clear on your reasons for doing science can make you happier, wiser, and better at it. Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#72 — Freedom is not having lots of options—it's choosing between them. You are free to choose.Now think about that in the context of your research project and career. Are there any decisions you would approach differently? Is there anything you tend to avoid because you worry it will limit your options in the future? You might worry that specializing in a specific technique or instrument makes you less widely employable. Or you might worry about the consequences of taking projects in the same institute for a long time compared to what you might achieve if you move from project to project and country to country. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, explore why making decisions that keep the maximum number of options open to you doesn't necessarily mean they are the best decisions.  Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#71 — Tara Nylese was a career scientist and formerly a Regional Market Development Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She left her Market Development Manager job to focus on other workplace wellness activities, and launched her book, Mindfulness in Everyday Life, which hit the #1 Best-selling new release in Business Health & Stress on Amazon. She is passionate about mental and emotional well-being at work and is certified in Applied Positive Psychology and as a Meditation Instructor. Tara strives to bring mindfulness out of the yoga studio and into everyday life.In this episode of The Happy Scientist, Tara joins Ken Vogt to talk about her new book, mediation strategies to boost your cognitive abilities and the measurable benefits of optimism on your work, life, and physical health.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#70 — Academia can seem like nothing but deadlines. Experiments, people, reports, and objectives compete for our immediate attention. Sometimes, rightly so. But you can't physically do everything at once. And when rushing becomes the rule rather than the exception, all your well-reasoned priorities can be totally derailed, leaving you feeling like you are always playing catch-up. Plus, rushing usually has a negative impact on the quality of your work.So what steps can you take to stop urgency from becoming your default work mode? How can you deal with people putting urgency on you? And can you tell false urgency from things that genuinely need doing quickly?In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we explore how to reduce the sense of urgency and alarmism in your work to get a clearer sense of your priorities, build sustainable working habits—and deal with legitimately urgent matters when they occur.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#69 — Challenging people. You get them everywhere. Your lab—and beyond.There's the one who block-books instruments for two weeks straight. There's the one who barely shows up and seems to get by doing far less work than you. There are data thieves and god complexes, post-it note warriors, and everything in between.Heck, labs can be real frontier towns.Some challenging people might be irritating fellow scientists, which you can mostly avoid. Others are so colossally awful that they make you dread going into the lab. And if your role forces you to work closely with such a person, for example, if they are your manager or sponsor, they can take a massive toll on your mental health.In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we'll explore strategies to deal effectively with challenging people. They will help you manage challenging relationships and chronically awkward encounters. Plus, they are scalable, meaning you can apply them beyond your lab for a consistently happier outlook, enhanced personal growth, and improved resilience.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#68 — Respect is an interesting measure of a career. We all know colleagues we respect personally, or professionally, or intellectually. Sometimes one person captures more than one or even all of these measures. In fact, they can feed each other in an upward spiral. Here we will consider the micro and the macro ways to expand our respectability.We'll also explore how you can cultivate respect—on multiple levels—and how it enables enduring professional connections.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#67 — Staying motivated while doing research is hard! It can be repetitive, with bouts of frequent failure and some complete dead ends. But your research is beneficial and does matter—even if you're momentarily struggling to see the bigger picture—so it's critical to have an arsenal of ways to stay motivated when times get rough. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, we explore some habits and techniques you can adopt to keep the flame burning.Whether you face demanding research hurdles or need to reignite your passion, this session offers strategies to keep you motivated and driven.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#66 — Do you ever think: "I don't love science anymore"?Many of us have doubts during our scientific career and question whether the passion or enthusiasm is still there, but is it really true that we don't love science anymore, or is it that we don't love the machine, the politics, the funding apparatus, or the people we work with?In this episode of The Happy Scientist, let's go back to where it all started and figure out when the “real world” got in the way.Discover how to apply your hard-won wisdom to recalibrate your perspective, and let us look to those who never lost that love, either for advice and mentorship or as a model we can emulate.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#65 — Do you feel awkward responding when someone genuinely compliments your work? Have you ever had a backhanded compliment or dubious praise? It seems like it can be hard to know what to say when your accomplishments get noticed—especially when it's your boss, a VIP, or even a celebrity. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, get the tools you need to make you confident and gracious in the face of that often uncomfortable experience—receiving praise. By applying what you learn, you'll know how and when to offer praise and stand out among your peers for your positive and perceptive outlook.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#64 — Catalysts aren't just for chemists anymore! The best practices you bring to the bench can be invaluable tools beyond it. In this episode of The Happy Scientist, discover how to repurpose best lab practices to recognize new opportunities, accelerate your career progression, and extract value from your professional experience.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#63 — Discover the art of focus. Dive into its macro and micro applications. Begin with the bigger picture—your career, then ripple inward to your organization, team, and current tasks. But the order you put these in is yours to shape. Make your priorities guide your focus. Tune in to this episode of The Happy Scientist to explore how priorities and focus intertwine and redefine your lab superpower!Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast #Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#62 — Looking out for number #1 was fashionable in the 80s. Now it's almost a rude comment. But if you're not looking out for yourself, who is? And what's the best balance between collaboration and prioritizing your individual goals? Discover ways to balance your interests and those of the people around you and how service to all can be of service to you, in this episode of The Happy Scientist.Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#61 — Join us on the latest episode of The Happy Scientist podcast for a conversation with Dr. Brandon Vaidyanathan, Associate Professor at the Catholic University of America and lead scientist on a fascinating study that examines the role of beauty in science as well as the impact of beauty on the well-being of scientists.It turns out that whether one is drawn to the subjective side of science or the objective side, beauty plays a major role in one's satisfaction in the field.Learn more about the study "Work and Well-Being in Science" here: https://workandwellbeingstudy.com/If you want to dive even deeper, join Dr. Vaidyanathan on his podcast "Beauty at Work": https://www.beautyatwork.net/podcast/Watch or Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast here: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.comJoin us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast#Podcast #BitesizeBio #TheHappyScientist

#60 — Have you been wronged? Are you righteously indignant? Are you that most popular of characters today: a Victim? In this episode, we will give you the keys to set you free. Then you can decide whether you prefer grudges or freedom.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

#59 — “It's always been done that way.” Maybe that works for double-entry accounting (which hasn't changed in a thousand years), but not in the lab. We humans may love the security of things we can count on, things like protocols and management, axioms and HR. But you are a scientist, and curiosity and discovery define your world. So buckle up: we are going after the status quo.Also check:There Is No Such Thing As A comfort Zone - http://www.veraclaritas.com/theres-no-such-thing-as-a-comfort-zone/Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Rene Descartes famously wrote, “I think therefore I am.” Have you cleverly upgraded that to “I science therefore I am”? It turns out that might not be the shining achievement you thought it was. Join me in conversation with Dr. Laura Grassie, Ph.D. molecular biologist and full-time wife and mother as we discuss the benefits of decoupling your identity and your work.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Remember when you were a wide-eyed child and you dreamed of being the person who would invent some world-changing gizmo? You had lots of ideas back then. But now that you're all grown up and worse yet, EDUCATED, have you run out of notions? Or have you found you have them but you can't produce them in a clutch? Don't worry; that dream machine is still in there. In this episode, we will turn the idea fountain back on.Also check:How to Foster Imagination - https://bit.ly/foster-imaginationWhat You Don't Know You Don't Know - https://bit.ly/you-dont-know-itThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill -  https://amzn.to/3N9Ti68“Is Noise Always Bad? Exploring the Effects of Ambient Noise on Creative Cognition”By Ravi Mehta, Rui (Juliet) Zhu and Amar Cheema, Oxford University Press - https://bit.ly/is-noise-badListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, we interview the Ph.D. pharmacologist and biocurator, who became Senior Managing Editor for Bitesize Bio, Dr. Adam Pawson. How did he escape the lab, and overcome his fear of being exposed after over 25 years of academic and professional scientific success? See how competence and success ultimately triumph over fear and self-doubt.Also Check:Episode 10 — Getting Past Imposter Syndrome - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-10-getting-past-imposter-syndrome Episode 40 — Does Humility Harm our Career? - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-40-does-humility-harm-your-careerEpisodes 1-9, where we explore the foundational needs of a happy scientist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhlHb_8bv_-PJpXLfpIfnGuc2TSQZlEO9 Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Is your lab a pressure cooker? You're not a pot roast, so such an environment is not for you. But can you do anything about it? Fortunately, yes! This episode will unpack the many tools at your disposal to make your workday and your career far more serene and productive.Also check:Episode 11 — The Art of Going Slow - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/episode-11-the-art-of-going-slowEpisode 12 — Managing Your Energy - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-12-managing-your-energyEpisode 20 — The Multitasking Myth - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-20-the-multitasking-mythListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, we will offer you a simple test that will clarify the proper priority for any item on your to-do list – or reveal that it shouldn't be on your list at all.View the quadrants here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iQOoct6QjdID0fU4OaHpmq2LQTsGZ1S7/view?usp=sharingListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Who was that wise, compassionate, brilliant person who decided for you what is comfortable and what isn't? Oh, they weren't so wise, compassionate, or brilliant? And their identity is not at all clear? Before you make an appointment with your therapist, your hairdresser, and your bartender, let's talk. This episode will dispel the common presuppositions about comfort.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Maybe you think there is too much to know about science without having to incorporate other fields. In fact, your own sub-sub-specialty is overwhelming enough! But this is the whole point. Why not draw on others who have already done all the heavy lifting, made all the mistakes, and overcame them? Why not use functional, proven methods and systems; but use them for your own elevated purposes?Check out the books discussed in this episode below:The Martian by Andy Weir — https://www.amazon.com/The-Martian/dp...Hail Mary by Andy Weir — https://www.amazon.com/Project-Hail-M...Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Unless we're wrong, having to be right all the time will lead to lots of problems. (See what we did there?) In this episode, we will explore the risky nature of needing to be right all the time.Also check:Principles by Ray Dalio — https://www.principles.com/Episode 41 — Do You Listen? — https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-41-do-you-listenEpisode 31 — What You Don't Know You Don't Know — https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-31-what-you-don-t-know-you-don-t-knowEpisode 23 — The Siren Song of Control — https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/episode-23-the-siren-song-of-controlEpisode 10 — Getting Past Imposter Syndrome — https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-10-getting-past-imposter-syndromeListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Early on, you discovered you liked science class better than other classes, say composition, or history, or literature. There is nothing wrong with preferences. You may even have liked some of those non-science classes, if not as much. But some classes, you hated. Maybe you could avoid gym class or drama class. But there was no hiding from math. And it keeps showing up in your scientific environment. What is a scientist to do when these undesirable subjects keep rearing their ugly heads?Check the book "Lab Math: A Handbook of Measurements, Calculations, and Other Quantitative Skills for Use at the Bench" here: https://www.cshlpress.com/default.tpl...Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

While it's easy to complain about what's lacking, it's productive to focus on what's going for you, what's working for you, and what's supporting you. Awareness of the pluses offers you opportunities to capitalize on the assets available to you. So this episode will shine a light on some things that you might not be noticing, or may even be hidden to you—until now.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

If it wasn't for the tasks, the people, the bureaucracy or the pressure, you would love your job. After all, no other careers have these demands… Hmm, perhaps your expectations need a tune up. But let's say you got dismally realistic – how can you face all of the barriers to a successful and satisfying career, especially in the rarified air of science?Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

And the blind shall see! It's easy to acknowledge we don't know everything but it can be hard to admit we don't know when things get specific. It's even harder when we don't know what we are missing. In this episode we will discuss our human reactions to our blind spots and how to get past them.Check Episode 31 (https://bitesizebio.com/podcast/episo...) and the article "There's No Such Things As A Comfort Zone" (http://veraclaritas.com/theres-no-suc...)Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Ah, reason. It can be so comforting. But to the uninitiated it can be quite frightening. In this episode, learn how to spread your hard won reason without causing a panic or making enemies.Check the articles http://veraclaritas.com/escape-the-tr... andhttp://veraclaritas.com/you-cant-thin....Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Freedom has been associated with politics, philosophy, lifestyle, morality, relationships, even guns. But what about science? In this episode, we will posit the importance of freedom in science, and the forces that would make it not so. Listen in!Check out Episode 16 — The Challenge of Differentiating Between Science & Scientific Opinion - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-16-the-challenge-of-differentiating-between-science-scientific-opinionListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Ah, the elusive fantasy of work — life balance. Think about it, can you name anyone who consistently delivers on it? If you have ever experienced a magical moment that looked like it, were you able to sustain it? Since work — life balance seems to be as rare as leprechauns mounted on unicorns, perhaps something more achievable is in order. In this episode we will discuss something more effective and more doable than “balance”.Read the article “Perfectionism Is Setting the Bar Too Low ” (http://www.veraclaritas.com/perfectio...) and check Episode 20 — The Multitasking Myth - https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/episodes/ep-20-the-multitasking-mythListen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, we will decide whether you need a break, a nap, a vacation, a new job, or a new career. You don't have to burn the candle at both ends to make a success of your scientific career. Join us to figure out how to refresh, reset, retool, or redesign, as the case may be.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Do you have someone chattering at you all day long and that someone is you? If so, you're in good company. This is the common human condition. Sometimes though it feels like it's getting in the way. If you've ever had that experience, you will enjoy this episode as we unpack the voice in your head. We will be talking about how to manage this ever present voice and how to use it to best effect. Read the articles http://veraclaritas.com/do-you-have-a... and http://veraclaritas.com/the-problem-w....Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

If your closest friends were instructed to list your three most prominent qualities, would “good listener” be among them? If not, tune in to this episode to learn how to be an Olympic level listener. In fact, tune in especially if you question the value of being a good listener. If you are already a good listener, you are probably going to tune in without further prompting -- because you value good listening. So, everybody, tune in!Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, which was recorded live, you'll learn how to properly wield humility—and still get credit where credit is due. How on earth will people ever know how great a job you do unless you tell them? How indeed. It seems like being humble will only cause you to live in a shadow. But is that really so?Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, which was recorded live, you'll discover more about what it takes to go from being merely efficient to optimized. Have you ever been accused of being a control freak or an obsessive in the lab? Sure, you just want to get things right. But there is a better way.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, which was recorded live, you'll discover how to do more than just get paid or add another line to your CV/résumé — and how you can be a scientist and be happy at the same time. This episode is aimed at working scientists. It's more than just a job to you. It may even be more than just a career — it's your life. You want to get the most out of it and you actually want to enjoy it — and that's not too much to ask.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

In this episode, I interview a scientist who found out the lab is not a required component, in fact sometimes not even a desirable component for a real career in science. The interviewee: my co-host Nick Oswald PhD., founder of Bitesizebio.com. Hear us go all inception on what is necessary to become a happy scientist.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Life would be great...if it wasn't for my boss. You wouldn't be alone in thinking that. But let's face it, bosses are a necessary part of life. And they can serve many useful purposes. So how can you make sure they make your life better, not worse? In this episode, we will discuss how to manage your boss in such a way that your life and work get better.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

The English poet John Donne famously wrote, “No man is an island, entire of itself.” So how do you get off of your Island and start including others in your work? It may be the people that work for you, the people that work with you, or even the people for whom you work. Tune into this episode to find out more. Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

It wasn't supposed to be like this. You had such high expectations. You had plans. And then came the crushing blow. Now what? In this episode, we deal with disappointment. And by “deal with”, we don't just mean discuss, we mean handle it and put it to bed. If you could use some of that, come and join us.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

Many of us look back with nostalgia to a time when we used to just live in our imagination. But for so many of us, the necessities of math and hard science have made us forgo all that. What if you could take all that hard won math and science forward and still have the imagination? In this episode, we will discuss how to make imagination a regular part of your happy scientific career. Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

You are educated, informed, and engaged. You are opinionated, and rightly so. And as you look around, you see that your lab, your industry, maybe the entire world is completely on the wrong track. So do you speak up or do you keep quiet? In this episode, we will consider when and how you should speak your peace and when it is time to hold your powder. Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast

There's what you know, what you don't know...then there's what you don't know you don't know. That third category is the biggest and it's the one where all the fun stuff is. So how do you get into that third expanse and make effective use of it? We're going to tackle that in this episode.Listen to all episodes of The Happy Scientist podcast: https://thehappyscientist.bitesizebio.com/Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyscientistpodcast If you enjoyed this episode and want more practical tips on being a happy and successful scientist, we can help. Download The Happy Scientist Reference Pack today, and reignite your passion for science. https://bitesizebio.com/the-happy-scientist-reference-pack/?ref=bsb-podcast