Friday 20-06-2025 - 15:31

Rabia A, DTA Programme Training Manager

Writing is a tedious task that demands full, undivided attention. It is probably the most challenging and emotionally complex yet mandatory part of doing a PhD. It is more than just putting words together; it’s about organising fragmented thoughts and hazy ideas and constructing a strong argument that withstands academic scrutiny. Not to forget the overwhelming pressure of deadlines and sense the loneliness that comes with writing solitary.

It’s no surprise that the annual Residential Writing Retreat is the most popular event in the DTA Training Programme. It offers DTA researchers three dedicated days for focused writing—individually, yet within a collaborative environment that fosters momentum and mutual motivation. Researchers leave the event feeling inspired and committed to keeping the writing spirit alive.

This year’s DTA Writing Retreat was held at Missenden Abbey during the first week of April, spanning three days and two nights. Researchers from across several DTA universities attended the event. On the final day of retreat, just before farewells were exchanged, researchers were invited to reflect on the writing momentum built over the three-day event. They were then encouraged to write a letter to their everyday self—a reminder of the motivation and fulfilment that came from writing in a supportive, collaborative environment, for the days when writing feels more difficult and feelings of isolation creeps in. These letters were posted to the researchers six weeks after the retreat. For this blog post, extracts have been taken from some of the letters with the permission of the researchers. These extracts highlight just how crucial writing retreats are for boosting productivity, enhancing focus, and fostering a collaborative environment.

“Dear J,

Time has flown since the writing retreat and I wonder if you have taken what you learnt from this experience; if not, this letter is to remind you!

Writing for you may come and go amongst the flow of multiple things the PhD entails. But remember, if you carve out for yourself blocks of time within your week where you immerse yourself in writing and have faith in the process. The start may feel precarious, thoughts maybe feeling dispersed, but trust the process within the experience of writing and it will all evolve and make shape. Do not fear, just go with it, don’t overthink, everything will come together”.

This letter is a reminder to honour the routine and have faith in the process, even when it feels overwhelming or tiring.

“Dear S,

Every time when you started writing at home or at the university, you get exhausted very quickly, but this time, you did not get exhausted at all, and writing gave you a pleasant experience. Whenever you felt lazy, the peer-pressure and seeing everyone write kept you going. I hope that you keep this spirit alive for the rest of your PhD.”.

The PGR identified peer-accountability as the most effective factor of the writing retreat. Having writing buddies during PhD might give the same accountability.

“Dear M,

Having a schedule that you are expected to follow pushes you to stick to it. There is a sense of responsibility and discipline that keeps you going and helps you achieve your writing goals”.

Attending the writing retreat helped this PGR appreciate the importance of routine and discipline in making steady progress on their PhD thesis.

“Dear JM,

I think the most important thing you’ve learnt from this retreat is the need to sit yourself down and get on with it. You can do it, and getting rid of the distractions is the key. Don’t worry about the inbox; it isn't going anywhere. All those emails will still be there tomorrow.”

We often don’t realise that checking our inbox can be a form of procrastination, quietly draining our time and energy. Skimming emails at the start of the day to identify those that need immediate attention—and deferring the rest until later—can help preserve focus and boost productivity.

“Dear D,

Remember what worked in Missenden Abbey to be your most productive self:

Focus plan of action- prepared to write  and target to complete, dedicated space to write free of distractions- away from the home tasks or children interference, regular breaks with nourishing food, connection with the nature- mindful observation of plants, birds and sky, entertaining, stimulating conversation with peers, and early nights and good sleep”                                                                                                                                                               

The letter summarises the key takeaways from the writing retreat, highlighting practices that are crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive writing routine during the PhD journey.

Whether or not you get the chance to attend a writing retreat during your PhD, we hope these tips and ideas support and inspire your writing journey.

May the words be always with you!!!