7 Self-Care Tips to Prevent Burnout

Written By OTF Collective

Prioritize You: Simple Self-Care Habits That Make a Big Difference

As moms, our lives are full. Between project deadlines, meetings, children activities, household responsibilities, family commitments, and personal growth goals, it can feel impossible to fit in time for self-care. I've been there and know this struggle intimately. I’ve looked at my packed calendar and wondered where “me time” could possibly fit.

It's a common struggle. Did you know that 77% of professionals report experiencing burnout, with mothers facing unique challenges? The American Institute of Stress highlights that numerous studies show job stress is a major stressor for American adults and has escalated progressively over the past few decades. Burnout doesn’t just affect your mood—it impacts your productivity, efficiency, and even your health. Yet, many of us continue to put ourselves last, convinced we’ll find time “later.” The reality? An overwhelmed, exhausted version of you costs more than you realize. From my personal experience, I can tell you that when I’m stressed and stretched too thin, I’m less present, less effective, and far less joyful.

At OT Flourish, we believe that prioritizing your well-being isn't selfish; it's essential. It's an investment in yourself, your family, and your future. Neglecting your physical and mental well-being affects not just you but everyone who depends on you. It wasn't until I began prioritizing small but meaningful habits that I truly felt the impact. These simple changes, often overlooked, transformed my energy, focus, and overall happiness. I'm sharing them in the hope that they may benefit you as well.

Small Changes = Big Rewards

1. Prioritize Your Health

Health is our greatest asset. Make those checkups a priority—schedule that mammogram, pap smear, or dental appointment you’ve been putting off. For many moms, health often takes a backseat amidst the demands of daily life.  It’s easy to overlook how much this impacts well-being until the effects quietly begin to show—but it’s never too late to prioritize your care.

2. Hydrate and Nourish Your Body

Staying hydrated and eating nutritious meals may sound simple, yet, but they are foundational to your overall well-being. I used to overlook the importance of hydration until I realized it was the culprit behind my persistent headaches. Now, I make hydration a priority, and the difference in my energy, focus, and mood has been remarkable.

Here are three products that can not only make this essential habit easier but more enjoyable to support your health throughout the day:

  • Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler: With its 40 oz capacity, spill-proof lid, and sturdy handle, this tumbler makes hydration simple and stylish. Its excellent insulation keeps drinks ice-cold for hours, and the large size means fewer refills, even on busy days.

  • Glass Tumblers with Bamboo Lids and Straws: These beautifully designed glass cups with bamboo lids elevate your drinkware while being eco-friendly. They’re perfect for everything from smoothies to iced tea, combining functionality with sustainability to enhance your hydration routine.

  • Gatorlyte Zero Sugar Hydration (Pack of 12): For days when you need an extra electrolyte boost, Gatorlyte Zero is an excellent option. With a 5-electrolyte blend, no sugar, and no artificial sweeteners, it’s ideal for rehydrating after workouts or busy schedules.

Small tools like these make hydration effortless and enjoyable. Prioritizing hydration is a simple yet powerful way to support your energy and focus, helping you thrive no matter how hectic life gets.

3. Take Movement Breaks

Sitting at a desk all day can be draining—both physically and mentally. Taking 5-15 minute breaks throughout your day to simply breathe and stretch. It's amazing how much these small pauses can improve focus and reduce stress. Stretching and moving not only relieve tension but also boost creativity and productivity.

At OTFlourish, we believe in integrating tools that support your well-being into your daily routine. Two products that have made a significant difference in my own life are the FLEXISPOT EC1 Electric Adjustable Height Standing desk and the Retrospec Solana 1” Thick Yoga Mat . 

The FLEXISPOT Standing desk, which allows seamless transitions between sitting and standing, keeping me active and comfortable while I work.

And for those much-needed stretch breaks or restorative yoga sessions? This Retrospec Solana 1” Thick Yoga Mat is the ultimate mat for comfort and support. Its 1” thickness provides unparalleled cushioning, making long poses comfortable and ache-free. It’s perfect for home use, letting me fully relax and focus during practice.

Small changes, like standing periodically or stretching, can transform your well-being. Have you tried these products or have other tips that work for you? Share in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

4. Embrace the power of gratitude

Start your day by listing a few things you're grateful for. It shifts your focus from what's lacking to what you already have. This simple practice has shifted my perspective and cultivated a sense of joy, even during stressful times.

Enhance your gratitude practice with the "5-Minute Journal", a simple and effective tool to cultivate mindfulness and appreciation.

5. Make self-care a non-negotiable 

Whether it’s a spa day, a yoga session, or a quick date with your journal, putting self-care on your work calendar makes it non-negotiable, just like any other important appointment. I’ve found that treating these moments as essential appointments helps me stay consistent.  And it’s been a game changer.

Here’s how each type of self-care has transformed my well-being:

  • Spa Day: Taking a spa day is one of my favorite ways to reset. Whether it’s a full spa experience or simply soaking my feet at home with essential oils, it’s a chance to let go of stress and reconnect with myself. It’s amazing how a few hours of pampering can leave me feeling renewed, physically and mentally.

  • Yoga Session: I’ve grown to love my yoga sessions. Beside the wonders that come with stretching, yoga helps me let go of tension and find calm in the chaos. Thirty minutes of mindful breathing and movement leave me feeling grounded and ready to face whatever comes next.

  • Journaling: Journaling feels like a freely flowing conversation with myself. Writing down my feelings or simply listing three things I’m grateful for helps me process emotions and focus on the good in my life. Some of my biggest “Aha!” moments have come to me while journaling.

  • Curling Up with a Great Book: There’s something magical about getting lost in a good book. It’s one of the easiest ways for me to escape and recharge. I love reading books that inspire me, or that challenge me to think differently. Taking even 15 minutes to read reminds me how important it is to nourish my mind. Here are some of my favorite Best-sellers:

7. Practice self-compassion 

Be kind to yourself. It's okay to not be perfect. I know how easy it is to fall into the trap of striving for perfection. Whether it’s being the perfect parent, excelling at work, or keeping everything running smoothly at home. But the truth is, none of us are perfect, and that’s okay.

Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same care and understanding you would offer a dear friend. When you feel like you’re falling short, remind yourself that motherhood and life is full of challenges. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.

5. Prioritize connection

Schedule regular date nights with your partner, coffee dates with friends, or family dinners. These connections nourish your soul and combat feelings of isolation. As busy moms, we usually put off date nights, thinking the kids or work needed us more. But when prioritized, it deepens our connections. Even a simple dinner or a stroll in the park helps us talk, laugh, and focus on each other. It’s a reminder that nurturing our relationship benefits the entire family.

Why Well-Being Comes First

Let me tell you something I’ve learned the hard way: A burned-out version of you costs more than you realize. It costs you energy, productivity, and the joy you bring to your family and work. But when you prioritize your well-being, everything else falls into place.

Even Fortune 500 companies understand the importance of well-being, which is why many offer wellness programs to their employees. If major corporations can prioritize this, why shouldn’t you?

Challenge Yourself: Make Your Well-Being Non-Negotiable

Here’s my challenge for you: Pick one habit from this list—just one—and commit to it for the next week. Put it on your calendar, prioritize it, and track how it makes you feel. Whether it’s drinking more water, scheduling a long-overdue checkup, or taking a 15-minute walk each day, notice the difference it makes.

When you start prioritizing yourself, you’ll find that you have more energy, focus, and joy to give to everything else in your life.

Next Steps

What’s one habit you’ll commit to this week? Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with the OTFlourish community to exchange ideas and encouragement. Together, we can redefine success and build lives where well-being takes center stage.

Your success starts with you. Let’s Flourish, together.



Outi Lendi, CPA, CGFM, PMP

Financial Strategist & Founder,

OT Flourish

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Professional Project Manager (PMP), mom, and well-being advocate, Outi Lendi combines over a decade of service in the public sector and corporate experience with a passion for empowering women. Through OT Flourish, she redefines success by prioritizing well-being, financial empowerment, and meaningful connections. 

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OTF Collective