Shijia gets help on her confidence as it relates to doing science/grad school in a non-native language, asking for feedback, and comfort interacting with men as a result of cultural upbringing.

Homework: Ask for feedback
- Tip: Ask for 1 thing you did well and 1 thing you did better (to avoid receiving the “It was good but…” structure of feedback)
- Tip: If it’s written feedback, read it while you’re well-rested and relaxed (if possible)
Tip: Prepare for but don’t avoid awkwardness
Growth mindset: don’t feel limited by the skills you currently have
- My late grandpa Yuriy had this, as he spoke to Americans even when he wasn’t fluent after we moved to the US from Russia. I recently found an amazing home video of him telling a joke in English, making people erupt in laughter, and then being delighted that he was understood
Homework: List the benefits of the struggles and learning opportunities you’ve had. Examples:
- Having English as a 2nd language can provide skills for then learning the language of science
- Having to work while in college teaches organizing, prioritizing, multitasking, whatever skills that job required, and is actually better than having a resume that has only education
Homework: Mindfulness (letting thoughts slip away)
- Tip: Avoiding Pink Elephants (think of a better thought to replace an unhelpful thought pattern, as just trying to avoid thoughts tends to reinforce them
- Tip: Track unhelpful thoughts by moving pennies from one pocket to another or by using a tally
Tip: Defer anxiety to a later point
Christy Harrison’s Intuitive Eating Fundamental Class (a mini course is available) and Food Psych podcast
Tip: Use Masterminds (feedback groups) for making progress on research projects or anything else you’re trying to get done

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Discuss this episode or learn about hiring Masha for workshop (about making progress on goals that matter to you using antiperfectionism and authenticity) at BoldAdulting.com!

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Bold Adulting season 3 episodes were recorded over a year ago. To hear updates or to learn what podcast guests have been up to since then, reach out using the contact information if provided.

Host: Masha Evpak

Sound Editor: Bart Cameron and Masha Evpak

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