The Dissertation Diaries

I am deep in the thick of research right now. My days are a mix of work, interviews, analytic memos, and everything that comes with trying to finish a dissertation while also showing up for the people who matter most. It is a strange balance. Some days it feels seamless and other days it feels like a puzzle I am still learning how to put together.

One thing that has helped is scheduling my days with intention. I am building pockets of time for everything that needs attention. Time for work because my students and teachers deserve my best. Time for research because this project matters and these stories deserve care. Time for myself because rest is not optional if I want to stay grounded. And time for my family because they are my constant and my joy.

This season requires structure that supports me rather than overwhelms me. Some days that looks like blocking off an hour to write while dinner is in the oven. Other days it means closing my laptop early so I can be fully present at home. All of it counts. All of it keeps me moving forward.

Here’s an example of my day. Now, I did take out my work, research, and family calendar for this photo because they are private, but this is in my personal calendar so I can see how I’ve designed the day. I even have what I am eating in the notes, so I don’t even have to think about it. This has been working for me this week because it allows me to be on auto pilot, which is what I need during my research phase. This is a Friday, which is usually reserved for finishing up work. Most days, I have an admin block for emails.

Here is an example of what my on campus day looks like. I actually used AI for this one and gave the prompt with here is when I have meetings, I want to make sure I have time to breathe in between events, get in my workouts, and have solid working blocks.

If you are in a similar season where everything feels important at the same time, you are not alone. Find a rhythm that works for you and protect it. Research can be consuming and life can be demanding, but we get to design how we show up for both.