As a new doctoral candidate in organizational behaviour, I had an ‘aha’ moment in an unusual place – statistics class. The professor explained the difference between ‘input variables’, factors that cause something to happen, and ‘output variables’, the results of the equation. This incited me to think about the 'variables of life'. What are the inputs, or independent variables? What are the outputs, or dependent variables? How much energy do we put into worrying about outputs vs focusing on inputs? By focusing on inputs (working hard, setting intentions, creating a healthy mindset, building relationships) the outputs (success, insight, learning, recognition) will come.

A colleague in his final year asked if I worried about finding a job after graduating – a perfect example of worrying about outcomes before focusing on the inputs. I spend little time worrying about getting a job. Instead I focus on what I can control – the inputs. I study hard to get the best marks possible; network with professors to establish research opportunities; attend professional development opportunities and eagerly participate in class discussions, which deepens my learning process. Finally, I hold the intention that everything will work out.