The after effects of submitting work... post submission blues - what's your story?

Having been in the Mansion 219 on the 14th of May 2012 a number of people said they are reading this blog but not commented yet? Please put a comment or tell a story if possible...

I have talked with several people this week about the feeling you get after submitting work. Here I am calling this feeling 'submission blues'. Having done a lot of studies in the last ten years, while working, it is a an experience with which I am familiar, but everyone has their story to tell.

It is coping with the end of a performance - but it is one that is different that an artistic performance - those most of us have had training to develop closure for after the 'show' or exhibit' or job completion. However, academic work can mean a lot to people because it does require extra effort, extra thinking, and ownership. For that reason when it ends, there is almost a sense of disorientation and disappointment. There should also be a sense of elation, great! the job is done (enter chocolate and rewards!).

Having spent some years studying higher education, the benefits from this level of study can sometimes happen after we have handed in our work, so developing a way to get a sense of closure is part of the process. Some people have talked about the implications or impact in their work throughout the critical reviews, a summing up of learning. However, because it takes a bit of extra adrenaline to submit, the sense that there is more to do can linger...

Continuing to share with your colleagues after you submission can really help. Several have told me that they have had discussions with others on the course and this has given them an outlet for their 'submission blues'. The way this course is set up means that people continue to think and share after before, during and after submission periods. Respect other people's learning journeys because they are substantial and lasting, especially in what we do which is professional practice.

Remember, feedback is coming your way from advisers and there should be a real sense of accomplishment that you have gotten the work done!

A few searches on submission blues - amusing - a bit random - but might take you mind off the after effects of submission. I did not really find any positive links for this issue at undergrad level - and some that were just too random. Many are about the exam process but do not talk about what happens afterwards. However, it is still good to know that many have had this response, so this experience is one that you share with others in higher education and those who have now graduated. Actually there can be a big sense of relief - so discreet celebrations for submitting work in on time are in order even while waiting for results.

For anyone who needs a few words to register where you are now in the process - we will be completing things to a schedule that I will put on the Libguide so that you will now when things are happening.

Finally - if you have a blog about after you submit- especially a positive one - share it and link it here.