I’ve been reviewing a lot of material on goal setting lately, and some of it is very applicable to the dissertation process. Two of the most useful ideas relate to setting realistic goals, and getting rid of unrealistic expectations.
Setting realistic goals means that you are able to complete the goals you define, within the time frame you designate for them. Realistic goals are specific, measureable, and can be monitored. At any point, someone else could examine your process and tell you where you are in relation to the goal.
Contrast that to very vague goals, such as "Write about the history of the bubonic plague"— at any one point, could an outside observer determine how close or how far away you are from reaching that goal? If the answer is no, then the goal is too broad, and probably needs to be more specific and more well defined.
Unrealistic expectations show up when you feel overwhelmed or exhausted by your goals, and never feel that you’re getting all that much closer, no matter how hard you work. Unrealistic expectations always leave you feeling bad and regretful. Unrelenting negative feelings are one sign that your expectations may be too high.
Completing the dissertation is, mainly, a test of your research capabilities and your capacity to self motivate. Managing your goal setting and negative feelings are two important steps to maintaining dissertation motivation.
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The date for the next dissertation teleseminar has just been set: Wednesday February 28, 2007 at 9pm Eastern. The topic will be Dissertation Motivation: How to Finish Quickly and Happily.
If you’re a member of the dissertation coaching membership site, this teleseminar is included in your membership at no additional charge. If you’d like to join the site, you can learn more at this link: The Secrets of Dissertation Success
If you’d like to sign up for the seminar without joining the membership site, the cost will be $12. You can sign up at this link, and the handout will be emailed to you at least a day before the teleseminar. Click here to pay for the Dissertation Motivation Teleseminar
See you there!
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