Navigating a Pathway for Individual and Collective Well-being—Academics Speak Out

Abstract

Navigating the challenging terrain of academia either as a new or seasoned academic takes thoughtful and purposeful intention. In this manuscript, two pre-tenured and two tenured faculty members at a research-intensive university engage in deep dialogue to explore challenges and opportunities whilst navigating this terrain, with a focus on supporting individual and collective well-being. We assert that surviving academia is not enough. Rather, we aim to thrive in a challenging culture, and maintain that our goal is to contribute to the personal and professional well-being of ourselves and our colleagues. Guided by auto-ethnography and dialogue, we share our storied experiences. Findings illuminate the importance of co-creating tangible spaces to support, encourage, and celebrate meaningful relations and academic work.