A Calm, Clear Launch of my Dissertation Project
Honoring the Promise I Made to Myself
Two years ago, I made a quiet, firm promise:
I will graduate healthy, happy, and whole.
Not just complete a dissertation. Not just meet a deadline.
But walk across that finish line without abandoning myself in the process.
Last week, I launched the data collection phase of my study—and realized I’m living that promise in real time.
This is a reflection on what that looked like, and how I supported myself through it.
The Approval Came In. I Didn’t Spring Into Action.
On May 21, 2025, I received IRB approval for my dissertation study. For many, that would cue the sprint—emails, posts, links, logistics. But I knew my context, and I listened to it.
My child was under the weather. The upcoming weekend was already full. My energy reserves were low. So instead of moving into launch mode, I shifted into care mode.
I've learned, especially through parenthood, that the child recovers first.
The caregiver's recovery comes after.
That wisdom shaped what came next.
Rest First, Then Systems
I treated the days following IRB approval as a period of quiet preparation—not just of tasks, but of self.
I took a long walk.
I spent time in the sauna, using a pass I’d bought for myself weeks ago.
I had a quiet solo lunch.
I returned a pile of items that had been sitting in a corner of my mind. (One missed the return window—but most didn’t. That felt like enough.)
I meal prepped simple, nourishing food: chicken thighs, pinto beans, curried sweet potatoes, stewed apples.
I didn’t label any of this “launch prep,” but in hindsight, that’s exactly what it was. I was clearing space—for focus, clarity, and follow-through.
Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash
Launch Day Was Strategic, Not Stressful
I chose to launch the following Wednesday. Monday was a holiday, and I let it be restful. Tuesday, I organized my backend:
✅ Finalized my survey and QR code
✅ Created calendar blocks for interviews
✅ Refined my outreach process
✅ Updated the flyer and tested all links
By the time Wednesday arrived, launching felt calm. The systems were in place. The message was clear. The energy was steady.
I hit “go” at 11:00 a.m.
And then, I let the launch breathe.
The Response Was Immediate—and Affirming
Within hours, the shares rolled in. The support showed up. And I’m incredibly grateful.
My goal: Interview 40 Black women
So far: 14 have already expressed interest and are in the process of scheduling
I’m pacing myself with intention. I’m communicating with care.
And I’m holding the trust people are placing in this work with the reverence it deserves.
I Kept My Routine as a Form of Support
After the launch, I had a simple, nourishing lunch and a little Netflix time. I sent a few follow up emails to schedule the first interviews.
That night, a dear friend from my master’s program happened to be in town. I made the drive to Baltimore for a quick visit—and made it home for bedtime.
No hustle. No pressure. Just aligned connection.
Even my post-visit snack—Starbucks bacon egg bites—felt like a small act of care. I’ve been prioritizing high-protein meals to stay grounded through this process. That strategy has served me well.
Day Two Started with Movement and Intention
The next morning, I followed a routine I’ve refined over the last year:
An hour and a half of deep core work, mobility, physical therapy, and hydration
A breakfast of eggs, pinto beans, and tea
A call with my dissertation coach (whose program I’ll be joining soon)
More interview scheduling and data tracking
By mid-afternoon, I took a break, picked up my kid, made matcha, and enjoyed dinner—again from my meal prep.
Simple things. But they made the work feel sustainable.
💡 What Helped Most? Systems, Stillness, and Self-Honoring Habits
Looking back, what made this launch feel different wasn’t a perfect checklist or a fancy tool.
It was the steady foundation I’ve built over the past two years—habits that honor my body, protect my energy, and make space for both excellence and ease.
I realized I’d been practicing these habits over time.
And when it was “go time”, they supported me in just the ways I needed.
I see now that I’m on track to keep the promise I made:
To finish this chapter healthy, happy, and whole.
If You’re in the Middle of Your Dissertation, or Any Big Project...
Here’s what I hope you take away from this:
You don’t need to rush just because something is “ready.”
You can create systems that support your life, not consume it.
You can launch without losing yourself.
It’s okay to move at the speed of your capacity.
Sometimes that’s the smartest strategy of all.
PS: Want to learn more about my study?
My research centers Black women who have completed non-degree credentials in data & analytics to advance their careers. ✨
This is a beautiful account, I am so happy that you have committed to peace within as you walk this path!