Making the Most of Your PHD - Tip 7

Park perfectionism and develop a thick skin

• Allow for failure without feeling like one 
• Half-baked ideas, editing and changing plans are all part of the process 
• From big fish to just a fish – imposter syndrome common 
• Ok to make mistakes – avoid repeating though 
• Ok to ask for help 
• Expect a plan B, C and D and critical, constructive feedback 
• Recall perfectionism when needed i.e quality of argument, methodology, critical thinking, research ethics and integrity, data management and analysis, presenting your original and novel contribution clearly
• 'I have not failed I have just found 10,000 ways that won't work' (Thomas A. Edison) - Good science and robust research still secures a PhD