One step at a time: This is how a doctorate is built
It’s not about going faster but about going farther!

When you observe a marathon runner, what stands out most is their strategy, mental strength, and a body trained to endure. Similarly, when someone decides to start a doctorate, it is not just a 200-meter sprint; on the contrary, one faces uphill paths, days of fatigue, and moments of exhaustion. However, what will truly fulfill you after so much sacrifice is reaching the finish line.

Can you imagine the satisfaction you will feel when you achieve it? Hearing the applause, seeing yourself transformed, and knowing you’ve traveled a path that changed you forever and allowed you to go further. That’s what a doctorate is like; it’s not just about talent; it’s about preparation infused with perseverance and strength, the ability to keep going even in the most difficult moments. Don’t know how to do it? In this article, we will explain how to strengthen your academic resilience, giving you techniques to move forward despite obstacles, no matter the speed, and allowing you to cross that finish line while enjoying the journey.

The mind must be prepared

To run a marathon, you begin by training for short distances, always starting step by step, with progressive training and a clear direction. The same applies to those who consider a doctorate as a professional project; it must be approached gradually.

According to a 2023 UNESCO study, 60% of professionals over the age of 35 feel fear due to the workload and time commitment required by a doctoral program. This fear is normal and can be overcome with a solid strategic vision.

Remember that just as you train your body, you can train your mind. There is a concept called “cognitive resilience,” which refers to the ability to maintain better focus, helping you avoid exhaustion and uncertainty, and recover balance even during moments of emotional overload. Use the power of your mind!

Before you begin: Preparation secures the goal

According to studies by the World Economic Forum (2024), professionals between the ages of 35 and 50 pursuing a doctorate report higher levels of academic satisfaction due to the clarity of their goals and life experiences. This proves that preparation leads to better outcomes.

Just like in a marathon, you must focus on preparing and having clear objectives, count on a support team, and evaluate the terrain. Below are some ideal steps to start your doctoral journey successfully:

1– Set specific goals

Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve with this doctorate? Be clear whether it’s recognition, a career change, or personal growth.

2– Evaluate all surrounding aspects

The environment is another key factor. Just like in a marathon, you need to know the terrain. Determine whether you have the necessary resources, family support, and available time.

3– Join a support group

Connecting with people who share your goals or support will help you stay on track. You’ll be able to exchange ideas and gain extra motivation to continue with mentors, family, and colleagues, because no marathon runner runs alone.

During the race: Kilometer by kilometer

A marathon has crucial moments: motivation at the beginning, fatigue in the middle, where you feel like stopping, and then the wall after the 30th kilometer, where the desire to quit may arise.

These same moments happen in a doctoral journey: at first, there’s great enthusiasm; then doubts start piling up about your hypothesis, mental exhaustion kicks in, and suddenly you find yourself facing the dreaded academic wall. The important thing is knowing how to face it.

When you hit the academic wall: Draw strength to reach the finish line

Remember, many are going through the same. 58% of doctoral students surveyed by Nature (2020) admitted to having considered quitting during those critical moments. The recommendation is to recall your purpose and visualize your initial motivation. Another key is to divide the path, don’t look at the whole book; just focus on the next chapter, just like a marathoner focuses on reaching the next checkpoint

How can you stay inspired? Successful marathoners visualize each kilometer as a life stage. You can apply this to your thesis: each step forward is a fundamental move toward your goal.

A healthy mind and body are essential: Self-care is non-negotiable

To run a marathon, your body must be in optimal condition; otherwise, failure is likely. The same applies to the academic path; resilience must be emotional, physical, and mental.

Harvard University conducted a study in 2023 showing that doctoral students who exercised at least three times per week were 27% more likely to successfully complete their program.

Here are some tips to help you stay on track and reach your goal:

Establish a work routine with short breaks, practicing active pauses to regain strength.

Maintain a sleep schedule that allows you to recharge.

Exercise: stretch, walk, or engage in a sport you enjoy. All of this boosts your cognitive performance.

Speak up: Academic isolation is not recommended for doctoral students. Share your ideas, progress, and frustrations, both personal and professional.

After reaching the goal: What comes next?

When a marathoner reaches the finish line, their story doesn’t end. Doctorate doesn’t end with graduation, either.

A marathoner who crosses the finish line must continue to shine, stronger, clearer, and more focused. The same applies to doctoral graduates. Here are some vital aspects to help you maintain a good pace after achieving your academic goal:

Stay connected to your academic environment through a meaningful network.

Keep your mind active by participating in projects, conferences, and committees.

Let your experience guide others: Teach, write, and share your knowledge and journey.

Motivating insight: According to Science Careers (2022), 73% of surveyed doctoral graduates said their PhD opened more professional and academic opportunities than they had expected.

It’s not about how fast you arrive, but about how far you go

Academic resilience helps you keep up the pace; it's like a runner who keeps running even when he feels pain; a doctoral student who persists through moments of doubt also builds to give his best.

If you’re considering a doctoral degree or feel stuck along the way, remember, unlike a marathon, this is not a race against anyone else. It’s your life, your path. It’s okay to challenge yourself, but it’s also essential to enjoy the journey and arrive at your destination proud of the knowledge you’ve gained.

Don’t stop, just slow down if needed, but keep going, because the finish line is closer than you think!