Six Secrets of Highly Performing PhD Students

Introduction

• Common misconception: PhD success equates to stress, more work, and an unpleasant process.
• Reality: Simple rules can lead to success and enjoyment in PhD life.

The Six Secrets

1. Ruthless Prioritization

   • Say yes to some things and no to most.
   • Focus only on activities that get you closer to completing your PhD.
   • Avoid distractions and concentrate on essential tasks like experiments and data analysis.

2. Consistent Habits

   • Successful PhD students have daily and weekly habits tailored to their PhD stage.
   • Early stages: more reading and exploring ideas.
   • Mid-stage: grunt work in the lab.
   • Final stages: writing and discussing results.
   • Discipline in maintaining habits aids in building momentum.

3. Maintaining Mental Health

   • Integrate hobbies and interests outside academia.
   • Engage with non-academics to gain perspective.
   • "Zero days" focused on self-care, rest, and hobbies are crucial.
   • Avoid the idea that PhD should be a complete sacrifice.

4. Mastering the Supervisor Relationship

   • Build collaborative relationships with supervisors.
   • Consistently communicate where you've been and where you're going.
   • Supervisors are not always right; use your judgment.
   • Communication should focus on progress and future plans.

5. Connecting with Your 'Why'

   • Regularly reflect on why you're interested in your research topic.
   • Align your work with personal interests and motivations.
   • A strong sense of purpose helps buffer against less enjoyable parts of the PhD.

6. Having Fun

   • Find enjoyment in research, presentations, and interactions.
   • Fight against the pressures and serious nature often associated with PhDs.
   • Embrace a sense of fun to make the PhD experience more fulfilling.

Conclusion

• By implementing these secrets, PhD students can navigate their journey with increased satisfaction and success while maintaining a healthy balance in their academic and personal lives.

For more advice on PhD life, check out the video on "Six PhD Habits that Will Save Years of Struggle."