Let’s be honest—writing a dissertation can feel like a marathon you didn’t fully train for. You’re juggling research, writing, feedback loops, life responsibilities, and possibly even work. It’s no surprise that many graduate students experience burnout. The good news? Some strategies can help you cross the finish line with your energy and enthusiasm intact.
· Start with tiny, achievable goals. Don’t aim to write an entire chapter in one sitting. Instead, focus on completing a paragraph, summarizing an article, or outlining your ideas. These micro-wins add up.
· Use short, focused writing sessions like the Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes of writing followed by a 5-minute break. It keeps you energized and less likely to zone out or get overwhelmed.
· When you're stuck, talk it out. Whether with a peer, a coach, or even to yourself out loud, explaining your ideas verbally can unlock clarity and direction.
· Create a realistic timeline. Break your dissertation into chunks and assign soft deadlines. Be sure to add buffer time for revisions, life events, or writer's block.
· Having a flexible plan keeps the pressure manageable.
· Ask for feedback early and often. Don’t wait until you feel something is ‘perfect.’ Early feedback from advisors or peer readers can save you time and align your work with expectations.
· Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Negative self-talk and perfectionism are common among grad students. Replace self-criticism with self-compassion.
· Use tools like Zotero (for managing references), Trello (for tracking progress), or Freedom (to block distractions). These small tech additions can streamline your process.
And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Coaching for graduate students offers a structured approach, accountability, and encouragement tailored to your unique goals.
Your dissertation doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be done. And with the right mindset and support system, you “will” get there.
Coaching for Graduate Students | SCOC Consulting
