Every year, as August winds down, two milestones arrive at once: a new semester and my birthday. For me, this timing feels perfect for a yearly evaluation. Not of grades or publications, but of life. Where am I right now? What have I learned? What do I want to carry forward or leave behind this year?
Graduate school can feel like a blur of deadlines, experiments, and expectations, with little space to pause. But taking a step back once a year, for just a few hours, has become one of the most valuable habits I’ve built. It’s my way of regaining perspective and charting my next steps intentionally.
Step 1: Reflect on the Past Year
I start with simple questions:
- What went well—academically, personally, and emotionally?
- What challenged me the most, and how did I respond?
- What am I proud of that I didn’t celebrate enough at the time?
- What were my favourite moments and experiences?
- Who would I like to keep by my side?
Some years, my wins are big. Getting married, presenting at a conference in Switzerland. Other years, they’re smaller: maintaining friendships, finding the perfect Santa hat. These reflections are supposed to be honest, not performative.
Step 2: Identify What to Leave Behind
This part feels like a reset. I look for habits, mindsets, commitments, relationships that drain me more than they serve me. Maybe I said “yes” too often, took on too many side projects, or neglected my health. Naming these patterns helps me release them and keeps me from carrying unnecessary weight into the next year.
Step 3: Define What to Build On
Just as important is recognizing what’s working. Did I develop a good writing routine? Strengthen a professional relationship? Protect one weekend a month for rest? These are small wins worth keeping and expanding. Grad school progress often comes from compounding small, sustainable changes rather than massive leaps.
Step 4: Set Gentle Intentions, Not Just Goals
I’ve learned to frame this evaluation around intentions rather than rigid resolutions. Instead of “publish two papers by March,” I might write, “Prioritize quality writing time twice a week.” Instead of “network more,” I might say, “Seek meaningful conversations in my field.” Intentions give direction without the pressure of perfection. It is also helpful to try to apply the SMART framework here as a guide.
Why This Matters
Doing this evaluation at the cusp of a new semester and a new year of life makes it feel personal, like my own quiet ritual. It helps me notice growth, clarify priorities, and face the next year with purpose rather than autopilot.
Graduate school can feel like an endless climb. But small systems offer a chance to pause, appreciate the view, and decide where to step next. And for me, that’s the best birthday gift I can give myself! Check out the latest “Little Systems, Great Rewards” blogs here, here, and .