Mum Of 2, Who Travelled To New Zealand To Study For Her PHD, Shares Her Experience With A Motivational Post

Mum Of 2 Who Travelled To New Zealand To Study For Her PHD, Shares Her Experience With A Motivational Post

Dr. Tega Ogbuigwe, a mum of two kids has shared how she travelled to study for her PHD at New Zealand, says it was her first time in that part of the world and the bravest thing she ever had to do.

Dr. Tega went further to share a motivational post for anyone looking to take on the path.

Sharing on LinkedIn, she wrote;

Five years ago, I packed 2 suitcases, 2 kids (under 5) and 1 husband (haha) to begin a new life as a PhD candidate in New Zealand. First time in this part of the world, no family and friends (still the bravest thing I’ve done).

This time last year, my journey as a PhD candidate ended with the successful defense of my doctoral thesis. Apart from becoming an expert in International Business and foreign regulatory policies, I learned so many things taking on this journey as an African, female and mother that has profoundly transformed my life.

For anyone looking to take on this path here are some of my learnings

Being a #phdmom or #careermom is like attending two universities with two different advisors who speak two different languages and the only language you understand is a third language neither of your advisors speak – yes go figure it out!
It is totally okay to not have all the answers at every given point in time. There is a clear distinction between not having the answers now, and your ability to find the answers. Be confident in your ability to be creative and innovative.
Learn to take your thoughts captive. Research shows that we have about 31 thoughts per minute and about 30,000 thoughts per day. Because we can’t see our minds and thoughts, we are less likely to actively control them. Letting 30,000 thoughts run wild can cause a lot of harm. Be intentional about knowing your thought triggers and distinguishing these from reality. What are you thinking and why are you thinking them?
Criticisms are not obstacles to greatness. However, your attitude to criticisms can determine whether they come obstacles or a source of inspiration and elevation. If criticisms always feel like a personal attack, check your “unconscious pride”. Your ability to turn criticisms into opportunities for growth is paramount to your success.
HOWEVER, there is a delicate balance between humility, knowing what you know and standing your ground when necessary. Meaningful and diplomatic pushbacks are essential to establishing yourself as an expert in your field.
Impostor syndrome can cripple you. Squash it early, squash it fast.
Not everything is about you!! Sometimes the negative energy you get from people are in no way, shape or form related to you but caused by their own situation. Know this and know peace!
Sleep is an underrated part of your thought process and your mental health. Grinding and hard work are important for success but not at the expense of your mental health. Of what use is the outcome of your hard work if you end up on a hospital bed? Take care of yourself! You can not build and pour out of an empty cup.

My list can go on and on really, but I hope this helps another woman, mother, African or anybody else looking to take that leap that seems scary. Remember growth comes when you leave your comfort zone.