I don't think a lot of people understand how nasty people can be in the academy. Many of us aren't doing this because folks treat us so well. I can't speak for others but I know what keeps me going is the belief that I can make a positive difference in someone else's life.
I am most fulfilled by the opportunity to produce research I'm proud of. I love working with students with the hope that I'll help them find a path that excites them as much as history excites me. I try to ignore the pettiness and professional jealousy (there's a lot of that...)
I remind myself daily that academia is not a meritocracy. That helps me stay focused and not internalize or make much of the slammed doors in my face. I focus on the open doors and try to figure out how to widen them a bit more so someone else gets through.
I've had my research trashed by folks who can't even articulate an argument. I've had folks plagiarize my work & smile in my face. The list goes on & on. But I persist because I love what I do & I'm grateful I get paid to do it. I try not to let the "other stuff" get in the way.
