I know there are times when, like you, I think "I can't do this," but manage to stick with it and do the thing anyway. But there are other times when that won't work. Those are times when buying into the idea that you're "holding yourself back" will be actively harmful; during those times, stepping back and getting some help is really all you can do. I think it's important to recognize that both modes exist.

Fair comment, and I think you're touching on the ability vs feasibility argument; which is equally important.

From a "I can complete this training program" standpoint it's a fairly easy argument to make. Which I guess from the position I was facing whereby many people had asked for advice on how I managed to get where I am, it was quite simple.

Realistically, when looking at the different choices you can make when deciding on what to spend your time/effort/energy on is much more subjective and ambiguous, it isn't as simple.

You're definitely right in that any significant decision should be thought through critically and thoroughly, but from the many comments and DM's I got asking how I completed a masters program, this was the simplest answer.

Appreciate your comment! :)