Dealing with Obstacles

How do you deal with problems and obstacles that arise with your dissertation? One method proposed by Dweck (2006) is to use a growth mindset, in which you make problems, negative feedback, and obstacles learning opportunities. You can gain this perspective by asking yourself

             What can I learn from this?

             How can I do this better? 

According to Dweck's research, people who use a growth mindset go on to ever-increasing levels of achievement, because they harvest each experience for what they can learn. In applying this to your dissertation, consider when you get feedback: what can you learn from it? What writing/ research skills can you gain? Treat each feedback as a learning experience in writing and research design. Make notes of your problem areas and work on correcting those issues in the future. If you see you have consistent problems in specific areas, consider taking a writing course or getting some books on the subject. Become an expert, use this time during your dissertation writing as an opportunity to gain professional skills. 

Next time I will discuss talking with faculty. 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