NESSA’S NOTIONS: Twists, turns, setbacks, and false starts
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Photo by Mark König on Unsplash
By VANESSA W. SNYDER
Posting on social media is about showing life and progress and joy and everything that’s going well. But as we know, life doesn’t always go the way we want. What we post is usually just part of the story.
We don’t post the other parts.
Well, here I am in YEAR FIVE! of this doctoral journey, still grinding and posting less. Until now.
If I can share the ups, I can share the downs, too, because my journey is MY journey. I know it’s not very original, but it’s true and something I must keep learning and telling myself repeatedly.
My journey is designed just for me with all its twists, turns, setbacks, false starts, and victories. Yes, for those still paying attention, I remain on the journey. And while I’m closer than ever – how many times have I said that? LOL – it’s still a journey. Much longer than I expected, but filled with so many lessons.
As I continue pushing forward, here’s the other part:
STAND UP FOR YOURSELF
This can be tough if you hate conflict and you pride yourself on being diplomatic. But guess what? If you don’t stand up for yourself, no one will unless you’re 5 years old.
GROWING HURTS
I’m Iearning to manage my disappointments, expectations, and embarrassment at how long this is taking.
I’M NOT IN CONTROL
Not a whole lot to say here. The evidence speaks for itself.
THE DEGREE IS NOT THE ULTIMATE REWARD
I can’t wait to be done and it’s going to feel amazing. But I understand that the degree is a tool for me to fulfill my purpose in life.
LIFE GOES ON
The journey takes a lot of time and sacrifice. But stopping your life to earn a doctorate is no way to live. If I don’t keep living and loving, the degree won’t matter much in the end.
Thanks for reading. I’ll keep you posted – sooner rather than later.
Because it’s OK to share the not-so-great parts.
