There are times where it is hard to imagine how everything is going to get done. There are also times when there are important solitary activities that we have to pursue to get things done like writing grants or writing manuscripts. Sometimes it's frustrating and difficult to see progress and things like that.

I think it's really important based on my research on positive affect and depression and my clinical experience and my intuition to build in rewards and reinforcements, to be able to set little goals and be able to be glad about achieving them, even a goal like devoting the next hour to working on this writing project. Wherever I end up, I spent an hour and I've met my goal.

Even more concrete things like finishing a revision and sending it back in, I think it's important to recognize those things instead of being punitive with ourselves which we all are so likely to do and feel frustrated for not achieving or the pace of our productivity. I think setting reasonable goals and really making something of them when you get there, keeping track of them and rewarding yourself with little things like coffee or checking your e-mail or taking a walk.

Another thing I think is to be able to cut your losses. Recognize when you're not having a good day or something isn't going well and it's time to take a break or time to put it aside and do something else.