Rethinking how we chase big goals through postgraduate reflection

In a tiny bathroom moment, the act of washing becomes a powerful metaphor for tackling ambitious goals or long-term aspirations. Those who have pursued advanced degrees, started businesses, or chased significant ambitions are familiar with this universal experience. The instinct to hold on tightly to our objectives often leads to unnecessary anxiety.

However, a tight grip is not synonymous with effort or focus. In fact, it can backfire, causing the goal to slip away faster than if we let go. The pressure of perfectionism can be likened to a slippery soap in our hands, making it harder to hold onto the goal. The truth is, fear usually accelerates the outcome we seek to avoid, rather than protecting us from it.

Fear of failure often results in freezing, while fear of rejection often leads to hesitation. The key to resilience lies in accepting that slip-ups are part of the process. Successful individuals who complete PhDs, build organizations, or maintain long-term careers are not those who never faced setbacks. Instead, they are those who view each slip as an opportunity to adjust and pick up the goal again.

This realization is liberating for anyone undertaking challenging, multi-year work. It's not about controlling every variable, but rather about showing up consistently, adapting the approach when necessary, and trusting the process even when results are uncertain. In this metaphor, the stack of books labeled research, learning, growth, and impact, with patience beside them, symbolize that progress is made possible by embracing these elements.

Every slip that gets picked up becomes a learning experience, each adjustment contributes to growth, and eventually, the impact we desire. So the next time a goal feels like slippery soap in our hands, remember to loosen our grip, allow the goal to fall if needed, pick it up again, and continue the process, not the panic, to reach the finish line. Dr. Yusuf Muchelule is a Senior Lecturer & a Consultant.