I was going to post yesterday about one of those days when, for no very discernable reason, the aches had definitely upgraded to pain, a headache developed at lunchtime only got worse, and the ability to concentrate was about as low as it ever gets - working through a head of cotton wool isn't a bad description. But that was yesterday and just sounded like a downer.

Today's better although the concentration is still a battle.

However, I've just been looking at a job ad on the Uni web site. My boss, who was promoted last year to Head, is finally being replaced. Of course, I ought to be applying for this although in the past I've muttered about it being all of the dismal parts of my job and none of the fun parts (teaching students, buying new (interesting) books, exploring Web 2.0 things and so on).

There's nothing on the job description I wouldn't qualify for although it's slightly offputting that I know two colleagues are applying. (A kind of lose-lose: if you get the job you feel bad for them, if you don't get the job you feel bad for yourself.)

But in any case, I don't think I can rationally apply for it (never mind the energy - both physical, mental and emotional that it would take), given how much I feel I'm struggling right now. Or is that just being terribly negative and unambitious?

The other Associate post may come up in soonish in any case as its holder nears retirement. So I think on this occasion, I should make a decision to say 'no' for once.