This has been my view most nights since the beginning of this semester. At least between three different desks and a kitchen table in the house. Taking 9 hours has been tough, and I have worked on assignments every day in some capacity. I'm battling through neck issues and a pinched nerve in my arm because I've written even more than I did last year at this time when I wrote a book. But I've gotten to do a lot of research on autism already. Several projects give me the autonomy to already start highlighting topics I will address in my dissertation, which I love. This journey is tedious, but I knew it would be. Thus far, it has exceeded my expectations.
And another plus, despite my physical issues, I've also made it a point to get 3-5 workouts a week, which has helped tremendously with my mental health and self-care. That, mixed with adequate sleep, chiropractic care, reflexology, and massages, has actually kept me relatively happy despite all the extra work. While I don't plan to take another 9-hour semester, at least I'm proving that not only am I able to do it, but I'm thriving at it.
#itsoktobeproudofyourself
#phdstudent #phdjourney #onepaperatatime #autisticphdstudent #autistictherapist #autisticburnoutrecovery #autisticauthor
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