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In this episode, I chat with Dr. Alison Miller about the importance of boundaries, productivity, and working in a way that really works for you. 

Alison received her PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Illinois Chicago. She is an entrepreneur who has built three successful businesses, including the Dissertation Coach in 2000. The Dissertation Coach has helped thousands of graduate students finish their doctoral dissertations and master's theses. The Academic Writers’ Space (TAWS) is an online community designed for academics to get real work done. 

 Highlights and Tips

1.    You have only so many resources; get clear on what is essential and what is “extra.” 

2.    When presented with opportunities, evaluate them in terms of your long-term goals - get clear on what you want out of your doctoral program – know your priorities.

3.    Having clear boundaries is an act of reverence; honor yourself: “Thank you….AND here is what I am committed to and one of the commitments I’ve made to myself is that I’m not taking on any new projects.”

4.    When you try to do everything, you end up doing nothing really well. 

5.    We often don’t say “no” due to discomfort and/or the fear of missing out (FOMO)

•  Saying no is a short-term discomfort compared to the long-term discomfort of overwhelm 
• Don’t let FOMO rule you!

6.    Not having clear boundaries prevents you from being present with your graduate work – work that demands unified attention. Your dissertation/thesis must be at the center. 

7.    You can’t manage time, but you can be a better manager of your commitments by setting clear boundaries (listen to this podcast for more helpful tips: 

8.    Recovery and rejuvenation are essential during a doctoral program. 

9. Having boundaries within a work session gives you unified attention:

•  Pick one small assignment – surrender to one task (stay in ONE lane)
•  Before you start working – take a deep breath and ask: What am I working on? What am I not working on? Then ask: Who is here? And: Is this compatible with my work? Listen to your body for guidance (FEEL IT), consider your options, and proceed accordingly.

10. The doctoral process is a transformative process – use it to expand and grow into a heart-centered person. 

Connect with Alison:
@thedissertationcoach IG
@theacademicwritersspace IG
The Dissertation Coach FB
@TAWSspace Twitter

Free week of membership at The Academic Writers' Space - http://www.theacademicwritersspace.com

Get Alison's book Finish Your Dissertation Once and For All: How to Overcome Psychological Barriers, Get Results, and Move On with Your Life:

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