I have been feeling quite lost over the past week. The feeling comes and goes but was especially strong after receiving the evaluation on my Pilot Study. I was very disappointed with the grade. I need to reread the feedback when I am feeling less emotional about it, but the core concern was the sample size and resulting impact to actual analysis that could be performed. I was upset because I had previously been given guidance to the contrary. The key learning here is that it is essential to understand the requirements of the individual(s) who will actual do the assessment!
This week I spent some time brainstorming ideas and thoughts on flip chart paper which was a useful exercise because it led me to my focus for today. I decided that I need to get more clear on expectations for the DBA stage of my research because I don’t want to be blindsided again. I have spent the past four hours reviewing a Henley doctoral dissertation that is very similar to my research interest. It has been time well spent for several reasons. First, it is an interesting read, and has renewed my passion for my topic! Second, it has highlighted a lot of literature that I need to review. Third, it is helping me to refine my research question. I have only read the first two chapters, about 100 pages, but so far there has been a significant ROI! I am looking forward to tackling the Methodology section next week.
I am pleased with today’s efforts and am departing now. I am going to do some errands and then get ready for a dinner party. It has been an especially social weekend already. Last night I went to the opera and then out later for drinks and dancing. Tomorrow I am going to the spa all day with a girlfriend. I am glad that I am having more FUN, especially now that the weather is warmer. Still need to ramp up academic productivity during the week though.