Find Useful Numbers

In the last few months I passed two milestones in my work helping people get ready for their viva. Through delivering my Viva Survivor and 7 Reasons You’ll Pass Your Viva sessions I passed the 500 session mark – and a little after that I went past the 10,000 participant mark.

Not bad for a quiet and shy mathematician who used to dread presenting, eh?

The numbers don’t tell the full story though. They don’t mention the development, thinking, writing, preparation, admin and behind-the-scenes work that goes into making something – but they are a reminder and a reinforcement for me and my confidence.

If I wake up tired or if something isn’t write when I deliver a session I am reminded that I have done this before and have experience to draw from. I’m not perfect but I am ready. If I’m asked a question that is particularly tricky I can take a deep breath and do my best and feel confident in that.

My numbers are reminders for me: what numbers do you have?

The number of days you showed up?

The number of papers you’ve read?

The number of words you’ve written?

The number of challenges you overcame?

There’s a big story behind all of your success. Find useful numbers that remind you of your story and your progress.

Find numbers that remind you of the work you’ve done and what that means.

PS: Registration closes at 5pm today for my Viva Survivor webinar! I’m delivering this session tomorrow, Wednesday 3rd December 2025. As I said above, I’ve shared this session a lot –  more than 400 times – and it is my comprehensive live session on getting ready for the viva. Check the link for full details of what to expect and if you’re thinking of signing up you have to do it soon!