What do you do if your research career is hindered by obstacles and you need to leverage strategic thinking?

1 Assess Reality

When you encounter roadblocks in your research, it's crucial to assess the situation realistically. Take a step back and evaluate what's within your control and what's not. This might mean acknowledging limitations in funding, time, or support. By understanding the scope of the problem, you can begin to strategize effectively. Sometimes, this may involve scaling back your project or redefining your objectives to better align with your current circumstances. Remember, a clear-eyed view of the situation is the first step in strategic thinking.

2 Set Objectives

Once you've assessed the reality of your situation, it's time to set clear, achievable objectives. These should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). By creating SMART objectives, you provide yourself with a roadmap to navigate through the obstacles. This step is not about lowering your ambitions but about restructuring them in a way that makes them more accessible given your current challenges.

4 Leverage Networks

Your professional network can be a goldmine of support and resources when facing research obstacles. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, and industry connections for advice and assistance. They may offer new perspectives or solutions you hadn't considered. Additionally, attending conferences and participating in academic forums can help you stay informed about the latest developments in your field and connect with potential collaborators who can help you overcome your challenges.

5 Implement Plans

After strategizing, it's time to put your plans into action. Implementation requires discipline and flexibility. As you work towards your objectives, monitor your progress closely and be prepared to make adjustments if things don't go as planned. Effective implementation is about persistence and the willingness to learn from setbacks. Each step forward, no matter how small, is progress towards overcoming the obstacles in your research career.

6 Reflect & Adapt

Strategic thinking is an ongoing process. As you implement your plans, continually reflect on what's working and what isn't. Be open to feedback and willing to adapt your approach. This could mean revising your objectives, seeking additional resources, or even taking a break if necessary. The key is to remain proactive and not lose sight of your long-term research goals. Adaptability is a crucial skill in navigating the unpredictable nature of research.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?