Abstract
An academic career affords us the opportunity for continuous learning and professional growth throughout the ups and downs of our professional life, during good and bad times. A key element necessary to navigate an academic career is to always focus on excellence as the core principle underlying our actions and interactions with others along the journey. This Commentary reflects on four essential elements of excellence that can enhance our academic journey. We should always care more, risk more, dream more, and expect more than others think is possible as we approach the days and years of our academic careers.