To overcome self-questioning, you need to learn to challenge the assumptions that you
set out to do. What proof do you have that you are incompetent? Be gentle with
yourself. Remind yourself that you are human, that you are allowed to make mistakes,
and that the best you can do is learn from them.1

Celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small; and don’t compare yourself or
your accomplishments to other people.
Emotional Intelligence 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 don’t know that are using
EQ skills.

1
Ilona Jerabek, PH.D, PsychTests AIM Inc., The Dark Depths of Self-Doubt: The Damaging Effects of Trust