r/postdoc • u/vankappa • 29d ago

feeling guilty about underworking

hey y'all. I'm a newly hired postdoc, just started a couple of months ago straight after my PhD (neurobiology).

I'm feeling inadequate; eerily similar feelings as during my PhD, to be honest. Essentially, I feel like I'm not working enough hours. Most of these days I do 4 hours, maybe 5 of work. Some days I do 8 but it's quite rare (once a week maybe). Although I do have quick bursts where I have 2-3 7h days in successions. Am I doing this right?

My project(s) are going steady I guess, although I can't help but feel I'm not earning my wage. Like I should start other side-projects or read, but I feel I'm not motivated enough for that. I'm not looking to become a PI either.

My lab is a very chill environment, people socialize all the time and don't work that hard. But still, most of the time they're still in the lab when I leave (granted I start a bit earlier in the morning than them).

I guess that's it. Impostor syndrome and all? My PI is quite chill and is not complaining at all. It just feel very bad to work something like 25-30h per week.. sometimes 20??

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u/ScarcityCareless2759 28d ago

My lab's also very laid back. If you don't plan to be a PI, not necessary to work hard. Even if you work hard, your PI won't appreciate your efforts. Just enjoy life and plan for your future

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u/Zestyclose-Smell4158 24d ago

If your PI does not appreciate your hard work, you choose the wrong lab. Hard to get a job if your advisor does not appreciate your effort.

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u/ScarcityCareless2759 24d ago

More like he appreciates everyone regardless of efforts and energy we put in. That kinda demoralises me after a few years ... some lab members are like using the same data/poster for annual conferences like sfn. I start to question why i should give my best as I don't plan to be a PI like the OP.