By Dr. Noelle Sterne

Q: I can’t say no to different things that keep interfering with my dissertation. Do other women doctoral candidates have this trouble?
        —Ms. Dissertationally Distracted

A: You’re right. I’ve noticed throughout my practice that women doctoral candidates especially can easily become diverted by compassion for others in trouble. Well-meaning, generous decisions and actions may result in calamitous consequences to a dissertation.