We wrap our Uncharted Academia series by making a clear case for sustainable ambition—ambition that draws strength from purpose, alignment, and hope, not from fear or constant approval-seeking. Across a turbulent funding climate and shifting institutional norms, Sarah explores how early career researchers can protect their energy, keep their work focused, and build labs that thrive for the long game. We explore how to protect the kind of ambition that expands your capacity instead of draining it. This moment of disruption is also a moment of possibility. It’s a chance to rebuild academic culture around integrity, generosity, and care — and to lead in ways that make the system better for those who come next.Interested in joining the next cohort of K to R Essentials? Join the waitlist at https://sarahdobson.co/k2r