To overcome self-questioning, learn to challenge the assumptions that you set up: What
proof do you have that you are incompetent?

 Be gentle to yourself
 Remind yourself that you are human
 You are allowed to make mistakes
 Learn from mistakes.
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Celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small; and don’t compare yourself or
your accomplishments to other people.
Emotional Intelligence (EI) in a Doctoral Program
So where do PhDs fit into the puzzle? With high IQs, impressive education accolades,
and insatiable ambitions to do meaningful work, PhD students and postdocs are force to
deal with high-stakes emotions regularly.
During graduate and postdoctoral research, PhDs are constantly engaged in emotional
intelligence training. However, most students and candidates do not realize they are
using EI skills.

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Ilona Jerabek, PH.D, PsychTests AIM Inc., The Dark Depths of Self-Doubt: The Damaging Effects of Trus