Hi Brooke

I’m having a bit of trouble making a decision and I was looking for some advice.

I am working on a temporary contract in my work, and it’s a challenging job. I work there part-time for 3 days a week, and I am finishing my PhD for the rest of the time. The funding for my PhD has finished, so I don’t get an income from that. An opportunity has come up to try for a permanent position in work, but in involves an extensive assessment process and will take a lot of time to prepare.

I can’t decide whether to go for this position or not. If I do then it will take a lot of prep time and it will take time and focus away from my PhD. My thoughts are that I can’t do these two big goals at the same time. Even one of these goals brings up a lot of doubt, fear, and anxiety for me. I don’t think I have the time, energy or focus to do both.

But the thought of not going for this opportunity also brings up fear for me. If I don’t go for this position, my contract at work ends in the summer and I won’t have an income. However I could always find another job till I finish my PhD, such as working in a coffee shop or something. I really want to focus on finishing my PhD as it’s been a real challenge for me, but I also don’t want to be left without an income.

How do I know if I’m making the right decision?

Thank you!