Many authors and dissertation writers question themselves. That snitty little voice in the back of your head encourages you to question each word, each page, each chapter. Self-assessment can be a good thing, but what’s even better is to keep the writing going.
1. Tell yourself that the writing is just for now—keep repeating, “It’s good enough.” Everything is fixable, and the fixing can come later.
2. Talk with someone about your writing and the plans that you have for the dissertation. Warm to your topic. Remind yourself of the interest that drew you to this topic.
3. Exchange chapters with someone who is currently writing a dissertation. As well as getting some comments on your work, you’ll also get a peak at the writing-in-progress of someone else. The early writing of most people is not ready for a refereed journal or the pages of The New Yorker. That’s good to know.
4. When you finish a chapter, move on. Sometimes you have to let things sit before you start tinkering. Push on to the next chapter.
5. Remind yourself that you may make some shifts as you write. Knowing that you will rewrite gives you not only some distance but also power. The writing is yours to mold. You’re in control
The most powerful thing you can do is to keep moving. Keep the writing going.