Have you ever
thought about your dissertation in terms of a habit? We know in psychology that
connecting a specific cue and behavioral routine to a reward reinforces that
behavior. Let's consider this in terms of your dissertation. If you set up a positive
cue with working on your dissertation, let's say an early morning cup of
special coffee that you love, with sitting down to write, over time, you will
begin to link the smell and taste of this positive coffee experience with the
routine of working on your paper. Let's add in an additional reward of feeling
the reduction of anxiety and stress over your paper. If you consistently have
your special favorite beverage only when you work on the paper (set a time
requirement – maybe an hour?), and then pay attention to your reduction in
anxiety, you will soon have a winning combination!
Make a daily habit
of writing at a specific time when you feel fresh and have the quiet time to
work on the paper. Link it with something you particularly love- perhaps
special music, drink, small snack, etc., make sure that this is only time you
have access to the positive reward. You will soon find the experience to be one
you look forward to doing.
Next time I will discuss negative habits and your
dissertation. Do you have an issue or a
question that you would like me to discuss in a future post? Would you like to
be a guest writer? Send me your ideas! leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu
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