Characteristic of an accomplished doctoral learner
Tenacious: Dictionary.com defines it as
- pertinacious, persistent, stubborn, or obstinate.
- adhesive or sticky; viscous or glutinous.
- holding together; cohesive; not easily pulled asunder; tough
They could have said ‘almost completed with dissertation’ as an example.
I think this is the one characteristic that any PhD learner needs.
Thing is, the character of “tenacious” needs to be directed mostly inward.
When it is focused outwards, there tends to be a clash. No need to get stubborn or obstinate with the folks trying to move you forward. Persistance may be required in asking questions for clarification. Ask yourself the question: What is keeping me from moving forward? Your mentor and your advisor DO want you to move forward. They are on your side.
Most people would see words like “stubborn” and “obstinate” as negative.
When turned inward, towards your own actions, obstinate and stubborn are good. How can you be stubborn about moving forward and not letting something get in your way? What are the short term goals to accomplish this degree? What do you need to do after that? then after that?
I like the concept of adhesive or sticky.
What is sticking to you?
What are you sticking with? Is it the right thing to stick with?
What are you allowing to pull you away from your work on a dissertation? How can you be tenacious and stick to your tasks?
What is your one characteristic that is needed to accomplish a doctoral program?
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