Time to Reflect. Exploring wellbeing, emotional work and research identity following a PhD.

Abstract

This paper reflects on the experience of my PhD in Interactive Textiles for wellbeing and intends to provide ways for other doctoral students to reflect and understand their PhD beyond the data. First I highlight how I managed my wellbeing during my PhD and provide information on strategies which helped me to do so. I then highlight the emotional work which was required to conduct my studies, particularly within Dementia Friendly Communities. Alongside this I explain how my background and previous experience contributed to my overall approach and identity as a researcher. My key learnings from my experience offer ways for future researchers to; Reflect on and manage wellbeing; Reflect as a researcher working on challenging and emotional topics; Reflect on how background and experience influence individual research approaches. In addition, this paper provides key take aways such as training and networking suggestions.