How should I "take" this email from my advisor?

[statsman1982]

@BigT

Since I’ve already told you my philosophy, I’ll tell you this way: Why would it matter if your guy was being snarky? Sure, he isn’t, but even if he were, what are you afraid he would do? I think if you can figure that out, you can more easily conquer this fear that he thinks so poorly of you.

And, yeah, I know that, in a recent “event” on the boards, I should have practiced what I preach. At least that means I recognize how hard it is.

There are any number of things he could do to me. Maybe he couldn’t kick me out, but he could do his best to make sure I never finish. He could sabotage my job prospects (he’s a MAJOR deal in his field, lots of books and articles to his name) if he does let me graduate. I don’t think he would hurt me physically, but he’s certainly capable.

[Crowbar_of_Irony_3]

@statsman1982

There are any number of things he could do to me. Maybe he couldn’t kick me out, but he could do his best to make sure I never finish. He could sabotage my job prospects (he’s a MAJOR deal in his field, lots of books and articles to his name) if he does let me graduate. I don’t think he would hurt me physically, but he’s certainly capable.

I think you are being hyper-vigilant here.

I was often like this; I keep looking out for signs or signals to measure the ‘strength’ of the relationship because I am not sure if my supervisor (boss or someone in a superior position over me, such as a friend I have come to rely on) really ‘likes’ me.

Though your supervisor could potentially hurt you, it is not a good idea to be obsessed over it. Is there any reason why he should?