You assume what you’re most afraid of

Or most guilty of.

I failed my qualifying exam

My exam was scheduled for twelve noon. I remember first stopping by my girlfriend’s apartment before then going to my windowless basement lab to run through the presentation one last time. I was unshaven and dressed like a typical PhD student: dirty sneakers, blue jeans and a wrinkled t-shirt. Ultimately, the effort I had put …

Sit tight

Showing emotion is weak. Plot to crush.

You might be on budget

But that doesn't mean you're doing well. Maybe your budgeting sucks. And you wasted time and resources.

Being open to feedback

Is about accepting your flaws and taking criticism towards your character while truly appreciating it. It’s about humility. Because feedback on your character is the hardest to take. Feedback on processes don’t count.