Increasingly, I can see how easy it is to lose momentum in research. Although I only took last Saturday off for vacation, which I thoroughly enjoyed, it feels like ages since I have focused on my research. As a result, I have been feeling a bit guilty and overwhelmed this week.
I spent the first part of this morning at a coffee shop reviewing some DBA handbooks and documents outlining expectations for both my dissertation and VIVA. This was a useful reminder of the big picture, but at the same time I started to feel incredibly anxious about two things. First, how can I possibly achieve all of these outcomes within the time frame that I have established? Second, even if I nail everything down how will I remember everything at the VIVA!! I tend to be effective at ramping up and learning required skills and knowledge, but my challenge is retaining BOTH breadth and depth while I am also juggling work and life.
Suffice it to say that I was not on an emotional high when I entered the library. As I was walking to my favourite study table, I noticed a student reading a book entitled “GMAT”. I immediately smiled and exhaled. Seeing the book reminded me of when I was prepping for the GMAT and feeling anxious about completing an MBA. Reflecting on the reality that I successfully completed the MBA, and more recently the MSc was a good morale boost. I need to let go of my aggressive time-lines and just focus on the journey. I WILL get there!
I am now going to review and update my overall research plan and resume my analysis and writing.