I want to finish my dissertation and become Dr. Mama, but I'm not sure how to make it happen with two kids under 5. My husband is really helpful with the kids, but my advisor has forgotten that I'm alive. How can I make this all work to finally finish this degree and move on with my career?
Sincerely,
ABD Mama
Dear ABD Mama,
Suck it up. Nobody held your hand so far in the process, so why should you expect it now. Stop doubting yourself and start working out of your comfort hours. Home with kids all day? Work at night. Writer's block is for people without deadlines to meet, and it sounds like that is not a luxury you enjoy. Happy writing.
Abby
Dear Abby,
We just moved to a new town and are related to most of the people we know. We miss our friends in the past 3 towns we've lived in and aren't sure where we're going to be a year from now. The uncertainty and lack of friend faces here makes the stress that much more unbearable. What should we do?
Yours,
Stressed Family of 4
Dear Stressed Family of 4,
First, you need to stop moving so much. How do you expect to make friends if you are already planning your next move? Enjoy the place that you are in right now, and relish all the time you get to spend with your extended family. Friends are great, but family is the greatest and most important part of your life. Focus on your family for now, and you'll make friends too. You just can't rush these things.
Abby
