Been back for a couple of weeks already, and can't believe I have to head back to London on Thursday. It's incredible how time flies, although I've had a good rest. I've spent most of my time in front of the computer playing games, or watching TV. Not the way I usually choose to spend my spare time, but it certainly is an effective way to rapidly destress. Things with my parents have also been OK. Relations with my father turned chilly the last time I was back, and this time we managed to steer clear of conflict.

I didn't really think of a New Year's Resolution come to think of it, since I'm always trying to improve myself in some way, but I guess I'd take my supervisor's advice to decouple my self-esteem from other peoples' perception of me, and to derive my satisfaction from my love of science.

Speaking of science/work, I have a massive pile of work awaiting me when I get back. My term project, which was supposed to start last term, was essentially untouched, so I have to catch with the work, not to mention that I'll be taking 3 very nasty lecture courses. Also, random promises here and there to give talks, write articles, play recitals etc only serve to make my timetabling interesting.

This would probably serve to pile stress on me, but in a way, there's no more pressure on me. My PhD applications are already away, and whatever I do in UCL from now on will have little effect on my future career. My position in the top of the class is almost unassailable, so I can take some luxury to enjoy some of the things I'm learning.

Time to enjoy life.