Significant Impact: from K Award to Your First Big R01 Sarah Dobson

Why is it easier to envision interpersonal contributions rather than intellectual contributions in your research career?
In this episode, we dive into the reasons it can feel easier to imagine the impact you’ll have as a mentor and a leader rather than as a researcher—and the dangers of focusing on your interpersonal contributions rather than your intellectual ones. 
Join me as I discuss why we very deliberately start with identifying your intellectual contribution in the K to R Essentials group coaching program and how we incorporate the interpersonal contributions so that you can see multiple facets of your career North Star.
Tune in to this episode of the Significant Impact Podcast to learn about:
The difference between intellectual and interpersonal contributions Why starting with your intellectual contribution is essential for your career How to balance different types of contributions to maximize your impact The importance of recognizing your ability to make a significant intellectual impact Listen in and discover how to embrace and amplify your intellectual contributions, paving the way for a more impactful and fulfilling research career.

Ever caught yourself saying one thing but doing another? 
You're not alone.
In this episode, I dive deep into the common leadership challenge of aligning what you say is important with what you're actually doing. I share a personal story that highlights just how easy it is to deceive ourselves about what we truly prioritize. (Hint: look at your actions, not your words)
Join me as we explore the importance of honesty in leadership and decision-making. We'll dissect how self-deception can creep into our daily lives and discuss practical steps to ensure our actions reflect our true priorities.
Tune in to this episode of the podcast to learn about:
Why recognizing the gap between our words and actions is crucial for effective leadership Insights into the psychological patterns that lead us to avoid uncomfortable but necessary tasks Practical strategies for confronting self-deception The role of honest self-reflection in overcoming procrastination and avoidance Listen in and gain valuable insights on how confronting the truth about our priorities can lead to more authentic and effective leadership.

Do your daily habits align with your career goals, or do they need a reset?
I want to share with you both the successes and challenges of maintaining effective work habits. We'll go into the lessons learned from my own experience and how critical it is to protect your prime working hours to enhance efficiency. 
As I take you on my personal journey of evaluating my habits, remember that it’s important to periodically check in on ourselves so that we can match our evolving circumstances to our aspirations.
Tune in to this episode of the podcast to learn about:
The importance of revisiting and refining habits for sustained academic success. Insights into how structuring weeks can lead to more focused energy use and productivity. The significance of aligning tasks with your most productive hours and taking control of your schedule. The role of personal health habits, such as sleep and exercise, in supporting peak performance during demanding times. Listen in and explore how a deep understanding of your habits and routines, combined with a willingness to adapt and refine them, is critical for forging a strong, fulfilling research career.

What sets apart a thriving research career from one that merely meets expectations? 
In this episode, I explore decision-making in academia, highlighting the transition from NIH Career Development Awards to your first big R01 grant. I challenge the notion that more time leads to better decisions, emphasizing instead the value of gathering information and taking courageous action. 
I also take time to reflect on recent K to R Essentials cohort applications. I was moved by stories of resilience during the pandemic and the similarities I see in the applicants’ K Award experiences.
As we welcome a new group of exceptional women researchers, I'm excited about our collective transformation. 
Join me for an open discussion on building a research career with an impact beyond just institutional checklists. 
Tune in to this episode of the podcast to learn about:
Why more time is never the only answer when making a big decision The importance of making bold decisions even when the path isn't clear and overcoming the fear of making the 'wrong' choice Insights into balancing institutional expectations with personal aspirations And so much more!
Listen in to learn why better decision-making happens when you cultivate self-trust and align your decisions with your career ambitions. 

As the K to R Essentials opens for new applicants, it’s one thing for me to say how beneficial it is. But it’s so much more impactful when you hear it from a fellow researcher who went through the program. 
In this episode, I’m revisiting a conversation with a former K to R Essentials member, Kristin O’Grady.
The mindset shift from mentee to PI doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes it’s a progression where each step you take gets you closer to believing you’re enough to get the job done.
Kristin O’Grady joined my group coaching program after trying other grant workshops that left her with more questions than answers. In our community, Kristin started making slow but steady progress that created a big transformation. She did this alongside her peers, reminding her that she’s not alone in pursuing her career goals and writing her first big R01.
Tune in to this episode to learn:
The limitations of institutional grant workshops Why writing your first R01 on your own isn’t easy How group cohorts inspire action and new ideas And so much more!
If you’re interested in taking a similar path as Kristin and joining the K to R Essentials, our Spring 2024 cohort is still taking applications.
To apply, head over to https://sarahdobson.co/k2r and secure your spot! 

With so many potential research directions, how do I choose the right one?
It’s one of the most common questions among K to R applicants. This difficult choice highlights the importance of creating a space for reflection and strategic planning, which is exactly what we focus on in the program's first month. 
By establishing your vision and understanding the impact you want your research to have, your time in K to R will guide you toward finding a clear direction that excites and motivates you, moving away from panic and towards purposeful progress.
Ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling research career? 
Applications close March 31, 2024, so apply today. 
Visit this link to start your application: https://sarahdobson.co/k2r