I have finally quit my PhD. Why? Well, after having spent almost two years trying to juggle between working full-time, doing a PhD, and having a life (ha!), I came to the painful realisation that certain things in life are simply irreconcilable—simple as that, although not quite as obvious to me at first.

I’m pretty sure that just about anyone who has ever tried to pursue, or has successfully completed a PhD, will relate to what I’m about to say: PhDs require, among other things, time and proper planning. Without any of these two essential conditions, any attempt to do research at that level is doomed to failure.

At this point, I should also add, my dear reader, that embarking upon a career in research is not an easy feat. You will need to be equipped with nerves of steel and tons of patience. You will have to renounce the delights of the world—yes, even spending time with your loved ones will soon count as such—and dive right into it. Essentially, you have to lose some to win some. Whether it’s worth it or not in the end, well, that’s up to you to decide.

In the end, I’m happy to say that I have absolutely no regrets. On the contrary, ever since I sent my notice of withdrawal, I feel like a man reborn. Who knows? I might be able to post more on this page now that I have successfully claimed part of my life back.