Motivation is key…but support is everything!

Last week was very much an up and down week. I started the week with no motivation whatsoever. I have been studying for my PhD for almost 2 years and I had hit what appeared to be an immovable brick wall, forcing me to consider completely changing direction with my studies. While I won’t go into the details, I was certain that the brick wall was more like Everest. However, after talking things through with family, friends, and colleagues I was able to visualize what I do next, even if the path I wanted to take was blocked. So, I stuck my head down and started to work out what to do next.

Near the end of the week, I got the awesome news that my wife had passed her master’s degree, with distinction. Despite in the midst of studying for her master’s degree, she had to look after me during my illness, pack up our house and move to a new home and just generally having to put up with me 24/7, she still managed to complete her degree with distinction!

So, while my path is still not certain and may take a little longer than I expected, I am certain that I will get to the end one way or another. I have recognised that studying for a PhD is not a sprint nor a solo effort. If I am to get to the end of my studies, it will be because of all the people that have given their time and support along the journey.

I just hope that I can deliver a piece of unique research that is worthy of everybody’s efforts!