Love and Dissertations
February 14th is Valentine’s Day. Here are two no’s and a yes regarding dissertation love…
When someone mentions love in the context of a dissertation project, most students think about the passion they have for their dissertation topic. But, if you’ve been hanging around me for any length of time, you know that is not what I mean.
Be passionate about your goals. I’m sure that you were called to pursue your doctoral degree. Those motivations deserve your passion; your dissertation does not.
Another thing to consider on Valentine’s Day: Don’t romanticize your dissertation. Most students have had no direct contact with a dissertation until they start their own. What they have heard is that the dissertation is the highest form of scholarship, that the attrition rate is high, and that it takes years to finish. All of this leads students to put the dissertation on a pedestal so high that they can’t possibly reach it. Don’t do that!
When you think about love in the context of your dissertation, instead, think about the people who are there for you. Think about the family, the friends, the coworkers, the colleagues who’ve offered you support and guidance along the way. And, certainly, don’t forget that special someone.
Along with the candy & flowers, jewels & pampering, be sure to take the time to express just how much you appreciate their support throughout your doctoral journey. In addition to making your special someone feel loved and appreciated, you benefit, too. You see, research has demonstrated that gratitude is closely tied to happiness, well-being, and productivity. Thank your Valentine for their support today.
And, if you’d like to do you and your Valentine spouse a huge favor by graduating as soon as possible, click here to schedule a quick, 15-minute chat with me to see if you’re a good fit for our Fast Track Your Dissertation Coaching Program. If you are, then I’ll invite you to join the fastest group of dissertation students out there and help you to reach graduation a good year or two faster than you would on your own.
