Author: Olasunkanmi Arowolo
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The Unspoken Mental Toll of Pursuing a PhD
The process of pursuing a PhD comes with numerous mental and psychological challenges, yet this is a topic that is rarely discussed. PhD candidates often face high expectations from their supervisors, schools, friends, families, and even sponsors, which adds immense pressure. Unfortunately, little attention is given to the mental health of these individuals. However, maintaining…
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You are a seed: Focus on yourself
Tuesday, August 20th – We live in a world full of distractions. The internet and social media constantly vie for our attention, making it easy to forget what truly matters—ourselves. You are a seed. You have potential within you, and that seed holds a purpose. If you don’t focus on yourself, you won’t discover your…
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The Price of Learning
Monday, August 19th – There is a popular quote that says, “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.” In light of that, I would like to provide some context for what I’m about to discuss. Education is truly expensive, but it is worth every penny. It takes time, costs money, and tests your patience…
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Unavoidable Stress
Thursday, 15th August 2024 — Have you ever planned things to do? You’ve developed strategies, and you can see them working practically. But when life’s challenges start dancing in front of you like a performer in a cultural show, you suddenly find yourself unable to accomplish all you’ve set out to do. I’m not just…
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Lessons from a Kickboxer: How Strategy Shapes Success in Life and Research
During my visit to the US to present papers at conferences earlier this year, I had the chance to sit next to a professional kickboxer on an interstate flight. We chatted for a while during the flight, getting to know more about each other and what we do. When we landed, we found ourselves waiting…
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Lessons from a Golf Game
Last weekend was quite an experience that I won’t forget soon. I’ve always loved playing golf because I see it as a unique game. It’s common among the rich, the elite. So, I opted in for it when we had a games night. There were all sorts of games. The men’s ministry in my church…
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A Reflective Week’s End: Cherishing Family and Embracing Change
Friday, 19th July 2024 — As the week draws to a close, I’ve decided to take some time to wind down and reflect on the past few days. In an effort to change my environment, I opted to visit a neighbouring town where we have family. I spent time with ‘grandma and grandpa’—the Olaleyes, who…
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Small Wins in a PhD Parent’s Day
Thursday, July 18th, 2024 — Juggling the demands of a PhD programme and parenthood can be overwhelming, but today, I discovered the power of consistency and creative problem-solving. Join me as I recount a day filled with tiny victories and big lessons. The day started with so much energy. We had a very good time…
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Attachment Theory: Lessons for PhDers
Wednesday, 17 July 2024 — I am surviving better; baby is adjusting. I read and know now for sure that babies tend to be very clingy and attached to their mothers. Later in this text, I will relate baby’s clinginess and adjusting when the mother returns to work to the context of doing a PhD…
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The Unseen Struggles of a Stay-at-Home Dad – Part II
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 — Today is a better day, at least it started off better. Tiolu slept better and for about two hours. I managed to spend some time with my older son, Tiola – we unboxed some gifts and painted. Taking advantage of Tiolu’s sleeping, I did some long-overdue chores and writing. The…