Perhaps we have had a challenging genealogical research year, plagued with obstacles of time-period and circumstance. Winter is arriving here in the Midwest and provides a great time to reflect on negative results and brick walls that have hampered our progress.
- Set aside one hour each week to focus on a specific challenge. I prefer a Sunday afternoon after the farm chores are completed. Try to avoid rabbit hole researching that takes you astray.
- Do not view the negative as a failure. Negative results are still findings. If I cannot locate a record in the repository or alternative sources, I know to expand my research and reconsider possibilities for the event.
- Take a break. I often move away from the problem at hand and give my mind a chance to refresh. Returning to the project with a clear mind helps avoid brick walls that can often be self-caused. Draft many questions, do not make assumptions, and find resources to assist the effort.
While the gloomy days of winter move in, take advantage of these coming days to tackle that challenging ancestral trail to beat cabin fever!
Happy Leaf Seek’n!
