Goals

So once again, I'm making a list of goals for the new school year. This feels a little tiresome, as I seem to make lists of goals every semester that never pan out. It is my fault completely, but the more I fail (because I didn't try) the more I believe that finishing my PhD is a goal that is out of reach. I'm trying to keep myself motivated and believing in myself, but it is much easier said than done. I'm hoping to keep my promises this time and really give it that "old college try".

Goals for 2010-2011

Finish dissertation by August 2011
- Propose by end of Fall 2010 semester

• Have a rough draft of proposal by October 15

• Get IRB approval by January 2011

• Data collection Spring 2011
• Have a complete draft done by July 1, 2011

• Finish writing in summer 2011
• Defend August 2011

How to accomplish above goals:
- Work on dissertation daily
- Be committed to the above goals
- Minimize distractions and negativity
- Overcome obstacles
- Develop plans to overcome obstacles
- Seek guidance and social support when needed.

Foreseeable obstacles
- Losing momentum/motivation
- Letting anxiety and fear overwhelm me
- Not believing that I can do it
- Financial difficulties
- Being out of town often
- Comparing my progress to others and feeling inadequate
- Previous failures discouraging me

This is not an exhaustive list, but a good start :-)