Introduction
When embarking on your dissertation writing journey, you might initially feel enthusiastic and motivated, prepared to tackle any obstacles. However, as time progresses, some individuals inevitably fall into the trap of procrastination, constantly delaying or struggling to invest their complete dedication. While you may attempt to address this issue, implementing effective solutions can be more challenging than anticipated. Dissertation procrastination stands as a significant hurdle many graduate students face, and the internet offers numerous articles providing advice on overcoming this problem. Nevertheless, it is essential to exercise caution with a one size fits all approach, recognising that every student's circumstances are unique. What worked for one person may yield different results for another. In this blog, we will explore the multifaceted nature of dissertation procrastination and guide you towards finding your path to success.
The Origin of Procrastination: The Demands of Life
So, what's the solution? It's essential to recognise that your dissertation work doesn't happen in isolation; it runs parallel to the demands of everyday life. You're not secluded in a castle solely focused on your dissertation. You have multiple responsibilities, and you must balance them all alongside your dissertation tasks.
In essence, you have only 24 hours in a day. Many of these hours are occupied by work, household chores, errands, meal preparation, visits to family and friends, and numerous other obligations. By the time you return home, you're often so exhausted that climbing into bed is a challenge. And then, as you lie in bed, the guilt starts creeping in because you couldn't find the energy to get up and work on your dissertation. You promise yourself that you'll do it the next day as soon as you have the time. But here lies the problem. Tomorrow arrives, and you spend it attending to the rest of your life's responsibilities. You never have enough time.
The Core Issue: Inefficient Time Management
Many individuals tend to attribute their lack of time to the circumstances of life, believing that external factors beyond their control are to blame. However, this perspective needs to be revised. While there may be exceptions, the root of the problem is typically not a shortage of time but rather a deficiency in time management skills. It is crucial to improve your time management abilities and take charge of your time instead of allowing it to dictate your actions.
Tips for Effective Time Management as a Researcher
Successfully managing your time as a researcher is crucial to avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed during your PhD journey. Implementing effective planning strategies can make the experience more manageable and enjoyable. Here are six key steps to help you stay on track and meet your goals while maintaining a healthy work-life balance:
- Embrace realistic expectations
Recognise and accept that it is impossible to cover every piece of literature or conduct every experiment or fieldwork that you may deem essential. A PhD is a finite project, and striving for perfection is impractical. Clearly define the scope and parameters of your research, allowing for a more manageable reading list and research goals.
- Establish milestones
Consult with your supervisor or senior PhD colleagues or SPSS tutor to determine the expected progress at different stages of your program. Many universities have scheduled assessments or progression points, providing a framework for your research. Understanding these milestones will help you plan your work accordingly.
- Break tasks into manageable chunks
Rather than perceiving your workload as an insurmountable mountain, break it down into smaller, more achievable tasks. By dividing your to-do list into manageable chunks, you can tackle them systematically, making your progress more tangible and boosting your motivation.
- Consistency is key
Productive research only requires a short amount of hours or constant work. While some academics suggest a 40-hour workweek as a baseline, find a pace that suits you best at different stages of your PhD journey. Focus on maintaining a steady workflow rather than fixating on a specific number of hours. Remember, a sustainable work routine promotes efficiency and prevents burnout.
- Set realistic expectations
Honesty about your working habits and pace is essential for maintaining a consistent workflow. If you know it takes a full day to write 500 words, avoid setting unrealistic goals like completing a 3000-word essay in two days. Setting yourself up for failure creates unnecessary pressure and negatively impacts your mental health. Always allocate more time than you think you'll need to account for unexpected challenges and allow yourself to work peacefully. If you finish ahead of schedule, reward yourself with well-deserved time off.
- Prioritise rest and rejuvenation
Although it may seem counterintuitive, taking regular breaks is crucial for long-term productivity. Pushing yourself to work continuously, even when tired, can lead to mistakes and inefficiency. Make it a habit to take breaks every evening or during weekends to rest and recharge. By allowing yourself time to relax and rejuvenate, you'll return to your work with renewed clarity, energy, and the ability to accomplish more in less time.
Time management proficiency is a talent that is acquired over time. By implementing and adjusting these strategies to fit your unique circumstances, you can navigate your PhD journey more efficiently, reduce stress, and enjoy the process.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can enhance your time management skills and effectively address any issues. This will enable you to identify and resolve problems by organising tasks and allocating sufficient time for important endeavours, such as your dissertation work. Occasionally, students may need clarification regarding their priorities, task categorisation, values, needs, and goals. In such instances, it is essential to seek assistance. Professional dissertation tutors are available to support you and address any queries. Remember, your dissertation is a crucial requirement for obtaining a PhD. Therefore, it is crucial to work on it and to seek help if necessary, as failing to complete your dissertation will undoubtedly impact every aspect of your life. Good luck with your dissertation completion!
