The New Year often feels like a moment to set new goals and envision new possibilities. However, for PhD students, the reality is that the pile of unfinished research, looming deadlines, and ongoing commitments don’t vanish with the turn of the calendar. Still, the New Year offers an opportunity to reflect and recalibrate. In this post, I want to share my resolutions for the new year, and I hope to inspire others in the academic trenches.
Prioritize Self-Care
This year, I’m committing to prioritize my mental and physical health. That means setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, exercising, and nurturing relationships outside academia. I’m focusing on doing more yoga, eating healthier homemade meals, and trying to learn something new.
Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Perfectionism can be paralyzing, especially when it comes to writing and research. Instead of striving for unattainable standards, I’m embracing progress over perfection. Small, consistent efforts often lead to meaningful results. I’ll keep my goals for the first year in mind and avoid taking it personally when I don’t reach everything or experience setbacks. It’s all part of the process, and each step forward counts.
Celebrate Small Wins
The PhD journey is long, and milestones can feel few and far between. I’m learning to celebrate the small victories—completing a tough draft, making progress on data collection, or even surviving a hectic week. Each step matters. I also want to make sure I take the time to share my successes with my community.
Engage with Broader Communities
As a PhD student in education, my work centers on language, equity, and identity. This year, I want to actively engage with communities impacted by my research, ensuring that my work remains relevant and meaningful. I plan to attend two conferences this semester and seek out more events within my school department and academic communities, such as workshops and panel discussions.
Practice Gratitude and Reflection
Amid deadlines and pressures, it’s easy to lose sight of why I embarked on this journey. I’m committing to gratitude—acknowledging the privilege of pursuing a PhD and reflecting on the bigger picture. I’ve recently bought a journal and aim to make reflection and gratitude practices a more regular part of my routine. This year, I’m also looking forward to learning new ways to be more grateful and reminding myself to actively incorporate gratitude into my daily life.
Looking Ahead
The New Year isn’t about drastic transformations; it’s about steady growth and intentionality. As a PhD student, I’m learning to navigate the ebbs and flows of academic life while staying true to my purpose.
To my fellow graduate students readers: What are your resolutions for the year ahead? Let’s support each other in making 2025 a year of growth.