The Biggest Mistakes I Made as a PhD (That No One Warns You About)

Pursuing a PhD is a rewarding but challenging journey. It’s easy to get caught up in the academic grind, and before you know it, years have passed with valuable lessons learned…sometimes the hard way.

If I could go back, there are several things I would do differently. Here are the biggest mistakes I made during my PhD and what you can learn from them.

1. Assuming My Supervisor Was Always Right

Your supervisor is experienced and knowledgeable, but they are not infallible. I made the mistake of blindly following their advice without questioning or seeking second opinions. The truth is, supervisors have their own biases and limitations. Listen to them, but also trust your instincts, challenge ideas, and explore different perspectives.

2. Staying Inside My Faculty Bubble

For the longest time, I believed that networking outside my department or discipline was unnecessary. I was wrong. Some of the best opportunities and insights come from interdisciplinary collaborations and industry connections. Attend events outside your immediate academic circle because you never know what doors they might open.

3. Neglecting Hobbies and Personal Life

I convinced myself that my PhD had to be my entire life, sidelining hobbies and personal interests with the mindset that I would get back to them “later.” That time never magically appeared. Hobbies are not a distraction; they are essential for mental clarity, creativity, and overall well-being. Make time for them.

4. Ignoring AI and Other Productivity Tools

The AI tools available today can save researchers hours of work, but I didn’t leverage them early enough. If you’re in academia now, embrace these tools to streamline literature reviews, data analysis, and writing. It’s not cheating, it’s working smarter.

5. Avoiding Interdisciplinary Research

I believed I had to “stay in my lane” and focus exclusively on my niche. In reality, interdisciplinary research provides fresh perspectives and makes you more employable. Many of the world’s biggest problems require solutions that bridge multiple fields.

6. Delaying My CV Development

I waited too long to update my CV, and when I finally did, I struggled to remember all my achievements. Your CV is more than a job-hunting tool; it helps you track your progress and plan your career. Start early and update it regularly.

7. Not Prioritizing Family and Relationships

Academia often glorifies overwork, but no degree is worth missing precious moments with loved ones. Your career will always be there; your relationships won’t. Make the time.

8. Failing to Document My Journey

I didn’t actively share my PhD experiences or reflections, and I regret it. Documenting your journey through writing, social media, or a personal journal isn’t just for visibility—it helps you reflect on your growth and connect with others on a similar path.

9. Rushing to the Finish Line

I was so focused on completing my PhD that I rushed through key moments instead of fully engaging with my research. Ironically, even though PhDs are long, they go by fast. Don’t just aim for the finish line. Embrace the journey.

10. Underestimating the Power of LinkedIn

For most of my PhD, I ignored LinkedIn. Big mistake. Networking starts before you need it. Engaging on LinkedIn early allows you to build a professional presence, connect with industry professionals, and discover post-PhD opportunities sooner.

Check out my PDF below on the 10 mistakes I made as a PhD that no one warns you about:

Final Thoughts: Was It Worth It?

A PhD is a unique experience, but it’s easy to get lost in the academic grind and miss out on important lessons. If I could go back, I’d approach things differently. Hopefully, by sharing my mistakes, you can navigate your PhD journey more effectively and make the most of this opportunity.

Questions to think about

1. Looking at your current PhD journey, are there areas where you might be limiting yourself?

2. What small change could you make today that would have a positive long-term impact on your PhD experience?

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