Step 2: Set Specific, Measurable Goals
Now that you’ve got some clarity, it’s time to take action. Here’s the deal: vague intentions won’t get you far. Instead of saying, “I want to feel less burned out,” try this:
“I’ll take 30 minutes every morning to journal and meditate, starting tomorrow.”
Or, “I’ll complete an advanced trauma-focused CBT training by December 31.”
The more specific and time-bound your goals are, the easier it is to stay on track. Make sure you break big goals into bite-sized pieces so they feel manageable. Trust me, small steps lead to big changes when it comes to setting and achieving goals.
Step 3: Build Your Dream Career
What lights you up as a therapist? Maybe you love working with couples, exploring coaching psychology, or diving deep into trauma work. Whatever it is, lean into it. Specializing can help you feel more fulfilled and stand out in your field.
Need inspiration? Check out my episode on finding your niche as a therapist. We also talked about this in the podcast episode about breaking free from the medical model which is perfect for anyone looking to shift their practice toward value-based, client-centered care.
Step 4: Stay Connected and Celebrate Wins
Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Building relationships with other therapists can be a game-changer. Whether it’s joining a consultation group or simply having a “therapist friend” you can call when you’re overwhelmed, community matters.
And don’t forget to celebrate your progress! Even small wins—like sticking to your goal of journaling for a week—deserve recognition. Why? Because celebrating reminds us that we’re moving forward, and that’s what matters most.
Ready to Flourish and Thrive?
If this resonated with you, let’s keep the momentum going. Take my Flourish and Thrive Quiz to uncover actionable insights that will help you grow both personally and professionally.
I’d also love to connect with you on LinkedIn! Let’s be part of each other’s professional network. You can find me here.
Xoxo
Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby
P.S. Think of a fellow therapist who could use a little extra inspiration? Share this article with them or in your professional community. Let’s lift each other up—because we’re all in this together.
Resources:
Yang, Y., & Hayes, J. A. (2020). Causes and consequences of burnout among mental health professionals: A practice-oriented review of recent empirical literature. Psychotherapy, 57(3), 426.https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2020-36553-001.html
Locke, E. A., Shaw, K. N., Saari, L. M., & Latham, G. P. (1981). Goal setting and task performance: 1969–1980. Psychological bulletin, 90(1), 125.https://psycnet.apa.org/journals/bul/90/1/125/
Chandrasekaran, A., Currano, R., Batool, V., Chen, K., Murnane, E. L., Sirkin, D., & Mauriello, M. L. (2024). Therapy for Therapists: Design Opportunities to Support the Psychological Well-being of Mental Health Workers. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 8(CSCW2), 1-34.https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/3686957
