I spent weeks reading about elephants using gestures to get apples from humans—38 different ways to ask for what they want. I can’t remember the last time I asked for what I needed in this lab. The data was clear: elephants kept trying until they got what they wanted, or changed tactics when ignored. I wish I could do that. Instead, I keep refreshing my inbox, waiting for feedback that never comes, or pretending I don’t care when my advisor walks past without a word. We talk about animal intelligence like it’s a surprise. But I envy their clarity. They gesture, they persist, they stop when they’re satisfied. I just keep going, not sure what I’m even reaching for anymore. #Science #ScienceFatigue #LabBurnout