Monday, July 4, 2016

Courage and the dissertation

In honor of today, the 4th of July, I would like to talk about courage. One does not generally think of this word when considering dissertations, however, it is an integral part of the process. It took great courage for you to decide to move from the path you were on, to that of a doctoral program. You may have left on the old path, friends and even family members who did not understand your new direction. That can be painful and lead to second thoughts. You left comfort and went into the unknown, an exciting but also frightening decision.

You have probably questioned that decision many times, wondering if you are "good enough" to finish. While this is normal, it is also takes courage to face your deepest fears and continue. Along the way, you have you have had your writing (and maybe your ideas) criticized and had to rewrite, yet you have bravely continued. Today, reflect on your courage and the example you are to others. Because of your example, your children, grandchildren, friends, and people you do not even know may find the courage to face the unknown in order to find a better future. Today, celebrate courage and independence. You have earned it!

Next time I will talk about celebrating small milestones.  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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