Abstract
This chapter journeys through the first few years as an Early Career Researcher while negotiating the various demands on teaching, research and administrative roles within the institution. The chapter also highlights the unique circumstances of attempting to carve out one's own scholarly identity and form bonds inside and outside one's institution, with others elsewhere or from the industry circles. The chapter offers points of reflection and reminders to the self and others that this is both an exciting phase, while it can also be overwhelming trying to maintain everything at once. Yet, one is reminded of how each of us is different and should prioritise things differently. More importantly, this is not a sprint but rather a marathon, so the essential need is to be kind to ourselves and others around us. Never before has the notion of health and wellbeing been so critical, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. Actionable steps are offered to others seeking to navigate this delicate, and yet highly personalised stage in one's career.