I have found building networks worthwhile when one is in academia in order to cultivate your resilience. These networks can be within academia in different institutions or even those outside academia. But I have noted that they all need to be as empowering as possible – depending on your areas of need. Networks do not particularly need to be only within those in your discipline. You may have, for instance, a colleague who is good at research management whom you can learn from and ask for advice. Academics that have been around for many years can also advice on aspects of navigating academic life and staying relevant. I have particularly noted that academics who have lived and worked in different environments whether in academia or otherwise, have more to offer in terms of empowerment.

Having said all this, the main point of departure is knowing your needs and also realising that they change over time, depending on your circumstances. In cultivating resistance, it is important to identify your source of personal empowerment. Some examples that I have come across include religion, exercise, meditation etc, but always remember that consistency is the key.

I will give examples from my own experience:
When I started in academia I felt extremely overwhelmed, especially as I had a young child to look after as well. My workload was high and then at some point I also had to start working on the PhD, including academic expectations to publish, attend workshops, conferences etc. So I tapped into my various networks, even those that have never been in academia, but are good at parenting for instance.