When academics start their PhD journey they are driven and extremely enthusiastic. Driven by the prospect of earning a doctoral degree, they are excited about their subjects, eager to learn and conduct experiments, and look forward to contributing new knowledge to their field. But the PhD process is often long, filled with obstacles, and requires unwavering dedication. For example, their research may not yield the results they were hoping for, milestone breakthroughs become fewer, or they find themselves struggling to understand complex theories or methodologies. So, how do you stay on track? In this article, we explore effective PhD steps and strategies to stay motivated during your PhD journey, enabling you to not only survive but thrive in this rewarding academic endeavor.
Understanding the PhD Journey
As PhD students dive deep into research and academia, they encounter hurdles that test their mettle and dedication. Many early career researchers experience feelings of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and anxiety during the PhD journey. Add to this the stresses of having to balance research work with family responsibilities and things naturally become overwhelming, often leading to anxiety and burnout in the PhD process. It is no wonder then that an alarming 40-60% of doctoral students end up opting out of the doctoral program1 as they feel demotivated, lose focus, or struggle to achieve their research goals.
PhD steps and strategies to stay motivated
Here are some simple, practical PhD steps and tips that doctoral students can adopt to stay motivated and on track during their PhD journey.
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Set clear goals with realistic deadlines
One of the most important things for PhD students is to set clear goals with realistic deadlines and work toward these throughout the PhD journey.
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Divide your goals into smaller tasks
Break down your research goals into smaller, manageable tasks and timebox these to avoid being overwhelmed and stay on track with everything that needs to be done in the PhD process.
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Establish a daily/weekly routine
With so much to handle, it’s easy to feel scattered and exhausted. Here, having a structured daily or weekly routine, including dedicated research and relaxation time, can work wonders for PhD students.
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Organize your work and research materials
Use physical systems or project management tools to keep your work and research materials organized. Having everything in order reduces unnecessary stress and improves productivity in the PhD journey.
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Celebrate small wins and milestones
Acknowledging and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, helps boost motivation levels along the PhD journey. So make sure to treat yourself on reaching milestones or completing complex tasks.
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Stay informed to stay ahead
Make time for research reading, so you are always updated on the latest developments in your field. Not only does it help with your own work, it keeps you curious and enthusiastic about the PhD process.
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Build a strong support system
Having a support system makes a significant difference in motivation levels during a PhD journey. Seek out a mentor, advisor, or even a peer who can provide guidance, advice, and feedback on your research.
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Join academic communities
Participate in academic or research communities to meet like-minded individuals who understand the PhD journey. This helps builds a supportive network and provides opportunities for future collaboration.
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Seek feedback and constructive criticism
Getting timely feedback and accepting constructive criticism on their research can help PhD students improve their work, find solutions to seemingly impossible problems, and consequently stay motivated.
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Think differently to solve PhD problems
When faced with seemingly unsurmountable challenges, experts suggest thinking laterally. Using thinking tools like the 40 TRIZ principles2 can help you view problems creatively, helping you come up with interesting solutions and deliver innovative research results throughout your PhD process.
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Be flexible; adjust and adapt quickly
Be open to changes in your research plan and adapt as needed, staying flexible in your approach. Look at unexpected developments or roadblocks as great opportunities for growth and improvement.
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Track progress of PhD processes
Keep a journal to record your progress, setbacks, and lessons learned throughout your PhD journey. Understanding that setbacks are part of the PhD process helps you stay resilient and push forward.
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Focus on the bigger picture
When you feel low, remember why you started your PhD journey and the impact your work may have in your field and beyond. Focusing on the bigger picture can reignite passions and lift motivation levels.
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Stay inspired and visualize future success
Feeling uninspired or uncertain is normal. Read inspiring stories of successful researchers who overcame challenges and envision your future accomplishments to stay motivated and raring to go.
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Take timely breaks to avoid PhD burnout
Finally, prioritize self-care by taking regular breaks and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Take care of your mental health to avoid burnout and stay motivated on the long PhD journey.
In conclusion, the PhD journey can be a long, challenging, and complex process that requires high levels of dedication, discipline, and motivation. Employing the PhD steps above can help you achieving your doctoral degree a little easier. It’s important to remember that fluctuating motivation is a normal part of the PhD process, and while the journey may not always be easy, it is definitely worth it in the end.
References:
- Prieto, L.P. Who drops out of the Ph.D.? A Happy PhD, April 2019. Available online at https://openriver.winona.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1016&context=jaep
- Mostafa, J., Peyman, A., Hamid, Z. et al. Exploring the Effectiveness of Inventive Principles of TRIZ on Developing Researchers’ Innovative Capabilities: A Case Study in an Innovative Research Center. SSRN. Available at https://www.zbw.eu/econis-archiv/bitstream/11159/188861/1/EBP074093533_0.pdf
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