Things that are completely acceptable to say / advocate for / communicate to your graduate program or advisor - a for PhD students working overtime during the pandemic. #PhDChat

1. I cannot meet this deadline & prefer not to compromise my health to do so. Let's push it back.

2. It does not feel appropriate to do quals or comprehensive exams after one year of a pandemic & semesters without any break. I would like to push this back.

3. My health is worth more than any PhD milestone. I will still be a doctor no matter how long it takes me.

4. My assignment will be late. I do not have the capacity to turn it in right now. Thank you for your patience.

5. I may perform better if I do this in a different way and on a different timeline. I will not compare my pandemic timelime to others' non-pandemic timeline.

6. PhD milestones are not worth my peace, health, mental health, etc. I will complete them when I am able to perform at my best.

7. I will not carry on business per normal while Black, Indigenous, etc people continue to be brutalized & our humanity debated. I need time off.

8. My home country is navigating a humanitarian crisis. The academic arbitrary deadlines and feigned sense of urgency are not my priority at the moment.

9. I am not okay / at my best / feeling fatigued and I need time off.

10. My health is worth more than anything to me.

And if you perceive judgement, disappointment, etc know that you don't have to internalize or take on other's feelings as fact or truth. Know that you made the right decision for yourself. Applaud yourself for taking responsibility for your health and standing up for your needs.

Applicable for faculty / students at any stage in their careers as well.

If you are early career at any stage (trainee, faculty..) know that you do not have to push yourself to your breaking point to prove your worthiness. You're worthy & intelligent regardless of productivity.