Everyone knows a #PhDstudent who has burned out. Usually, they start the program with a belly full of fire. They are smart, know they're smart, and are used to being at the top of the class. Some have never had to work hard to succeed. Others have succeeded through brute force applications of time. Both usually find that a #PhDprogram makes them think and work differently than they have ever had to before. They don't cope well and stop functioning. Why? Because everyone in a PhD program is smart and willing to work. Also, because most PhD programs are small, everyone makes #socialcomparisons along the way - of who works more, less, and successfully. Plus, students know that how well they do will frame how well they place. This confluence of #brains, #workethic, #comparison, and #pressure is tough. It can result in students working endless hours, losing sight of the big picture, and burning out. I've seen this happen again and again. So what to do? First, you need to pace yourself. PhD programs are a long game. So create #sustainablehabits. Create time to think. Get rest. Make friends. Second, avoid social comparisons. So what if someone earns a revision? You can't control how they work or their successes. You can control yours. Make your referent point your progress. You will feel better. Third, build two communities. To the extent that you are able have friends in your program and outside of your program. Inside friends can help sustain you #professionally. Outside friends can help you sustain you #personally. You will need both to navigate the four to five years to completion. Plus, having outside friends gives you relief from talking about work. Fourth, celebrate wins. It is easy to get lost in the weeds and forget to celebrate successes. #Burnout is easier to manage if you recognize your #successes. If it is as simple as turning in a paper on time or mastering a concept, set aside your other work, and take time to enjoy success at that moment. You will find the workload easier to manage later. Finally, know when to take a day off. A friend once said, you can go a long time in academia and no one will notice you are doing nothing. There is truth to that. It doesn't mean do nothing. It does mean no one fusses if you take a day or two for yourself. If you don't broadcast it, no one will notice or grumble. So if you need a "me day", take one. It'll make the "work days" feel better. If you recognize you are playing a long game, benchmark against you, make friends, celebrate wins, and make time for yourself, you will be able to manage your workload and burnout more effectively. These skills are important because the pressure is unabated if you pursue an academic career. Applying these skills make the job, and the career, a lot more fun! Best of luck!
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