Please note: This story reflects the personal experience and perspective of its contributor. Academic careers vary widely, and others may experience different challenges and opportunities. 

Career Story 

For many years, I have been someone who always volunteers for things and always tries to help out when needed. Being that person has generally made me feel content in my academic role. I value being a good team player and contributing to the Department in a variety of ways. 
 
However, it has also meant that I have not progressed as well as I could or perhaps should have in other areas, particularly research, which is a key and absolute requirement for career progression. 
 
Looking back, I would tell myself this: it is important to be a good team player, but that does not mean it always has to be you doing all the things. 
 
One myth I have had to unlearn is that saying no will make people think I am no longer a helpful or good member of the team. That has not been true. In reality, most people understand, and in many cases respect, clearer boundaries.  For those who don’t, I’m  not necessarily the one in the wrong… 
 
Over time, I have become more selective about what I say yes to or volunteer for. Sometimes that means not stepping forward. Sometimes it means saying, “Yes, but only if it can be pushed to a later date.” Occasionally it means saying, “Yes, but only if no one else steps forward.” I am also better at trading off activities, consciously thinking about what can be let go if I take on something extra. 
 
I have also reflected more carefully on where I make the most meaningful impact. I thrive in leadership roles where I feel I am having a direct impact on people. For a long time, I was drawn to those roles without really thinking about why. Now I understand that this is where I am happiest. Recognising that has helped me choose roles more deliberately and has had the added bonus of helping me prioritise my research focus more clearly. 
 
I know that I could potentially progress my academic career more quickly if I focused solely on research and stopped doing many of the other activities I enjoy. But I would miss those activities. The significant shift for me is that this is now a conscious decision, made after sensible consideration, rather than something I drifted into without thought. 

Reflections I would offer now 

• Being a good colleague does not mean you have to say yes to everything. 
• Saying no does not automatically damage your reputation. 
• Before volunteering, decide what this will replace in your workload, not what it will add. 
• Be selective about what you say yes to. Sometimes that means not stepping forward. Sometimes it means “yes, but later” or “yes, if no one else does.” 
• Notice where you thrive and let that guide your leadership choices. 
• Progression is not only about speed. It is about alignment with what matters to you.