“Do you work well under pressure?” Yes, I can confidently say that I work well under pressure. Over the course of my academic career, I’ve learned to distinguish between positive and negative pressure and how to deal with each effectively. For me, positive pressure is often motivating, such as tight deadlines that push me to focus on my goals or external factors that require me to prioritize differently. One way I manage this type of pressure is through regular meditation, which helps me stay calm and centered. Negative pressure, on the other hand, usually involves stressors that could distract me from my goals. I’ve learned to manage these stressors to ensure they don’t disrupt my work. One particular experience stands out when I successfully handled negative pressure. Early in my academic career, I received harsh criticism from a well-known professor, which not only targeted my research but also became personal. This was extremely distressing and began to affect my focus. After consulting with colleagues and the university, I realized that this behavior was a form of academic harassment. With their support, I distanced myself from the situation, which allowed me to refocus on my research and continue progressing. As a result of this experience, I started an outreach program to help early-career researchers create healthier working environments. This initiative has allowed me to use my experience to help others navigate similar pressures, fostering resilience and well-being in academic settings.