Facing the Monster under the Bed*

As you lay awake at night, what are your dissertation fears? That you aren't good enough? That you will run out of money? That you won't get your Ph.D., your family will be ashamed of you, and you will end up on the streets? Just as when you are were a child, these are your monsters under your bed. 

First, rest assured that such fears and worries are very normal. Often the best way to handle the monster under the bed is to directly confront the fear. You are worried that you are not good enough? Let's examine that. How did you do in your undergraduate and graduate programs? You got As and Bs? Then you should be able to handle the dissertation. Think about (it helps to actually list them) your successes academically, what were you really good at? What always was a problem for you? 

What do you feel is your weakest area related to your dissertation? Don't just worry about it – take control of the monster! Is it writing? Then look into some of the short writing courses offered by the writing center. The writing center has editors that work with you. They also have a developmental editing service (you need a referral from your chair) in which the editor will work one on one with you and teach you writing skills. 

Is your weakest area research methodology? Then read some books in your methodology area, so you feel more confident. There is a methodologist available through the writing center that can help with specific problems (your chair has to contact them for you). 

Beware of the common tendency to close your eyes and pretend the monster isn’t there, while you quiver in fear. Face it and wrestle it to the ground! You are in control of your destiny, take whatever steps you need to take to get rid of the fear and get done! 

*My thanks to Judi for suggesting this topic. Next time, we will take a look at insomnia. Do you have an issue or a question that you would like me to discuss in a future post? Send me an email with your ideas. leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu