Increase Your Sense of Accountability
Because the dissertation is largely an independent endeavor, having a source of external accountability can be extremely helpful.
In most cases, no one else knows whether you complete a specific dissertation task on a given day. Creating accountability to another person can increase both your motivation and self-discipline.
One simple way to do this is to share your work plans with others. Letting someone know what you intend to work on increases the likelihood that you will follow through.
Why Accountability Matters
External accountability can help you:
Stay committed to your goals
Maintain focus during work sessions
Follow through on planned tasks
Reduce procrastination
Knowing that someone else is aware of your intentions often provides just enough pressure to help you get started and keep going.
Use the Buddy System
One effective way to create immediate accountability is through the buddy system.
The buddy system involves planning to work in the presence of another person. Many of my clients schedule specific times to work alongside:
Another graduate student
Someone working on a dissertation, thesis, or academic project
When you work with another person, you are more likely to stay focused and less likely to drift into avoidance or distraction.
How to Make the Buddy System Work
To use the buddy system effectively, it helps to establish a few ground rules:
Agree on a specific start and end time
Limit conversation during work periods
Choose a location where talking is discouraged, such as a library
Clarify that the goal is working—not socializing
When used thoughtfully, working alongside another person creates a healthy sense of social pressure that supports productivity.
A Simple Way to Boost Motivation
The buddy system is a practical, low-effort strategy that can significantly enhance your motivation and accountability. By making your work visible to someone else, even silently, you make it easier to stay engaged and follow through on your dissertation goals.
This article was written by Alison Miller, PhD, founder of The Dissertation Coach, a business dedicated to helping doctoral and master’s students successfully earn their graduate degrees.