#68 How to stay mentally well

Hey friends,

I talk to a lot of researchers as part of my job

And many of them are struggling to deal with the emotional side of things

You’re not alone

Here are some tips that can help you manage stress and stay balanced:

1. There will be difficult times
   At some point, your work will feel stuck

   Keep going. Every researcher faces this, and it does pass

2. It doesn’t have to be perfect
   Your research will have limits and mistakes

   That’s normal. The goal is to show you can think, work, and contribute
   Your work won’t be perfect, there will always be room for improvement

3. Some of your work will be weak
   Not every draft, experiment, or idea will work
   Failure is part of the story

   That’s how you learn and improve

4. Check in with yourself
   Pause and ask: Am I stressed? Tired? Happy? Sad?

   Adjust as needed

   Rest, take breaks, or practice self-care
   

5. Take feedback seriously, not personally
   Critique is part of research

   Learn from it, but don’t see it as a personal attack
   

6. Keep a gratitude note
   Each day, write down three things you are grateful for

   Over time, it shifts your focus to what is working
   Start looking at what you have done instead of just focusing on what’s pending
   

7. Remember you belong
   Imposter syndrome is more common than what you think. Take it easy

8. Ask for help when needed
   If you are struggling, reach out

There is no shame in asking for support from mentors, peers, or friends

 You’ve got this

Research is tough, but whatever you are feeling will also pass

Take care of yourself and notice when stress builds up

Then take a break. That’s how you keep moving forward without burning out.

If you need support, or just need someone to check in with so you can stay on track, get in touch with me.

This is all for this week.

Let us know in the comments how you handle the difficulties in research.

As always, if you need clarification or assistance with your research projects, feel free to reach out to me, and I will respond.

See you next Sunday!

Jamal