So many things have to come together for a successful dissertation project.

The process of many great projects involves first considering, and letting go of, the projects that aren’t quite ready or worth it. The skill of moving on, however, requires humility and yes, practice.

I was so excited when, as a graduate student, I had a meeting with a scientist who could provide access to a dataset I needed for my planned dissertation project. I knew it was going to be hard work. But I was brimming with enthusiasm and thought nothing of the many barriers she mentioned. I was going to make it work!

So I was a caught a bit off guard when my advisor then firmly discouraged me from pursuing the idea. She was grasping the situation (and conversation) more clearly than me, and was protecting me from what would have likely been a wild goose chase for data access which would have wasted a lot of time and gone nowhere. Letting go of my first dissertation project was painful, but necessary.

Listen to the advice of those who can see the bigger picture and understand the value of protecting your time.

Practice this true listening. Practice letting go and saying no. And practice using the circular file. (Google it). 🙂

Your time is THE most valuable resource that you have – even now, as a graduate student.

With gratitude to J.D.