“Think Like a Scholar: Cultivating Habits for Research Excellence in Your DBA Journey”
As a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) scholar, you’re embarking on a journey that’s both intellectually challenging and professionally rewarding. But navigating this path requires more than just expertise in business theory or analysis. It requires adopting a research mindset—one that not only enhances your research skills but also helps you stay motivated and focused throughout the ups and downs of your DBA journey.
You might think that a research mindset is something you’re born with, like a superpower. Imagine waking up one day and suddenly having the ability to focus like a monk, read like an owl, and write like Shakespeare… yeah, that’d be nice. But in reality, developing a research mindset is a habit—a set of daily practices that help you thrive as a scholar. Here’s how you can cultivate these habits and boost your research excellence:
- Embrace Curiosity
A DBA scholar’s superpower is curiosity. Without it, your research will lack depth and drive. Curiosity pushes you to ask questions beyond the obvious, to dig deeper into the “why” and “how” of business phenomena. Cultivating this mindset means being genuinely interested in solving problems and uncovering insights.
So, next time you’re deep into a topic, instead of saying, “I’m done,” ask yourself, “What else can I explore?” Think of it like playing detective in a business mystery novel—except with more charts and fewer villains.
- Build a Routine
Habits are the backbone of any successful researcher. You can’t expect to make significant progress if you’re only working in bursts of intense effort followed by weeks of procrastination. Instead, create a research routine—set aside specific times each day for reading, writing, or analyzing data. Consistency is key.
Pro tip: It’s easier to train your brain to focus when you make it part of your daily routine—kind of like brushing your teeth. Except, you know, with fewer minty-fresh rewards.
- Read, Read, and Read Some More
Research requires a deep well of knowledge, and that well is filled by reading. As a DBA scholar, it’s essential to stay current with the latest research in your field, as well as relevant theories and methodologies. This will not only inform your work but also inspire new ideas and approaches.
You might not always feel like reading the latest journal articles (because let’s face it, some of them are a real “page-turner” in the most sarcastic way possible), but remember: it’s the fuel that powers your scholarly engine.
- Refine Your Critical Thinking
Research is not about memorizing facts; it’s about analyzing, critiquing, and synthesizing information. As a DBA scholar, you must constantly challenge assumptions, examine contradictions, and identify gaps in the literature. Developing critical thinking skills is crucial for formulating sound arguments and creating original research.
So, when you come across an article that feels too good to be true, don’t just accept it at face value. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes—question everything, except maybe your coffee. That’s definitely true.
- Network and Collaborate
Research can feel like a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be. Engaging with fellow DBA scholars and faculty members can offer fresh perspectives, collaborative opportunities, and valuable feedback on your work. The best ideas often emerge from discussions, debates, and the exchange of diverse viewpoints.
- Be Resilient
Every DBA scholar faces setbacks—rejected papers, failed experiments, or moments of doubt. The key to success is resilience: the ability to push through challenges and learn from them. Embrace failure as a part of the learning process and keep refining your work.
Because, let’s be honest, no one gets everything right the first time (unless you’re some sort of research wizard, in which case, share your secrets!).
Conclusion
Developing a research mindset is the cornerstone of success in your DBA journey. By embracing curiosity, creating a consistent routine, reading widely, refining your critical thinking, collaborating with peers, and building resilience, you’ll cultivate the habits that lead to research excellence.
It’s a journey, not a sprint—but with the right mindset, you’ll find that the road to becoming a DBA scholar is just as rewarding as the destination. Happy researching!
