Channeling the characters of Schitt's Creek to get you through your research rough patch

If the Rose Family of Schitt's creek can have their estate repossessed and forced to live in a motel within a one-horse town, you can survive any misfortune your research career throws your way. Rough patches are a given in research. Grant rejections, failed experiments, and criticisms; oh my! So, how do scientists cope during the downturns of the research roller coaster? We have our ways. But if you feel hung out to dry and have difficulty seeing through the fog, it's time to channel some experts at maneuvering through tough times.

Moira: Reality shifter
"You are blind to Reality and for that I am most Proud."

Moira is the queen of mental gymnastics. Although she hasn't acted in years and is eventually cast for an atrocious low budget film, no amount of failure can convince her she is anything but a star. Imposter syndrome and her peers' facial expressions will never creep past her mental defenses because her self-perception is ironclad. 

How to channel her: The most important opinion of yourself is your own. Self-confidence is the fuel that can propel you through any tough time. Stand tall, speak highly of yourself, and never give in to the nay-sayers. Always take time to celebrate victories — especially the small ones. 

Johnny Rose: No school, like the old school.
"Let me explain something about business. It's a dance. And sometimes you lead. And sometimes you follow."

Mr. Rose believes that consistent hard work can dig you out of any situation. In the face of defeat, it's time to put your head down, consider a plan of action, and hit the salt mines. Even while unemployed, he rises early for his morning coffee while dawning a suit and tie; a new day is a new opportunity.  

Channeling Mr. Rose: Having a hard time in lab? Is there a lull in your project? There is no quick fix for these problems. Keep on keeping on and better days will come. Rise early and greet each day with a positive attitude, ready to work. Dress in a way that makes you feel confident and prepared for anything! 

Alexis: The eternal optimist
"I don't skate through life, David. I walk through life in really nice shoes."

Like her mother, Alexis holds a unique perspective that bolsters her confidence. She can perceive any situation as "cute," or "fun." Even community service is an exciting adventure with the right attitude and accessories. 

Channeling Alexis: There's a silver lining to everything if you look hard enough for it:
​
PI: I had hoped you would be further along in this project by now.
You: That may be true, but the obstacles in this project teach me patience, and I feel like being a struggling graduate student is a cute look for me right now. 

**Working late to finish an experiment**
You: This is an excellent opportunity for me to enjoy my own company and catch up on my fav podcasts.

Coworker: These experiments are just not working. 
You: I wouldn't say they aren't working, more that adjustments need to be made to make the experiment work. 

David: Classic overthinker 
“He told me he doesn’t want my help, so I’m just going to play the supportive partner and watch him fail.”

David detests test-taking and new ventures because he assumes the worse is going to happen. He also assumes everyone is constantly judging him. Although this mode of thinking contributes to his anxiety, the upside is that he is pleasantly surprised when things work out. 

Channeling David: Set the bar high, set yourself up for failure. Set the bar low, and you set yourself up for success. But don't go so far that you're a pessimist! Although you may worry, remember that you can find success, even when you find yourself with unexpected setbacks.

Author

Kerry McPherson, @KerrySilvaMcph 
PhD Candidate studying biomedical sciences. Researches proteins implicated in cancer chemoresistance. Bolded Science creator and editor. Also co-founded a STEM education outreach program at her University.