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My biggest take-away from reviewing the resources on compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary trauma from those in the helping field is the fact that the inevitable burnout will occur if the helper does not take active steps to "fill their cup." Distinct preventative measures must be in place and regularly practiced by the helper in order to stay mentally healthy and able to "pour into others."

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After reviewing the course resources, being a single mother of three children, and personally working in various helping professions for over ten years, I have learned (the hard way) the downfalls of not implementing and practicing self-care strategies. My natural heartbeat is to always put others before myself. So much so that I honestly was trying to pour from an empty cup and perplexed as to why I was ending my days stressed out, physically and mentally drained, and not feeling fulfilled. Once I learned how to practice self-care, I experienced the benefits of restoring my mind and body, in order to pour into those I love and those I was able to bless through my professions.

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Learning the importance of and implementing healthy boundaries in both my personal and professional lives, has been the biggest foundation for my ability to practice self-care strategies. Over the past ten years, I have had to learn and experiment with activities that leave me feeling rested and restored, rather than anxious and drained. Several of these activities that I regularly practice include taking bubble baths after my children's bedtime, going on walks and spending time with my great dane, and incorporating family trips to the beach.