I Was Misinterpreting “You Can’t Pour From An Empty Cup”
The wrong application of this common metaphor contributed to my burnout Fortunately, caring for our mental health is less stigmatized than it used to be. Now, it’s quite normal for
Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Burnout Prevention Specialist
Helping high-capacity people shift from hyperproductivity to sustainable rhythm.
Dr. Rebecca Hubbard is a licensed clinical psychologist, burnout prevention specialist, and TEDx speaker based in Chicago. She works with high-responsibility professionals navigating chronic stress, identity pressure, and performance expectations. With over a decade of clinical practice, research in race and resilience, and experience integrating mindfulness into evidence-based care, she brings both rigor and real-world insight to her work.
Known for her calm, thoughtful presence, Dr. Hubbard translates complex psychological concepts into clear, practical strategies that help individuals and organizations build sustainable ways of working.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing indivdual and couples therapy in person and virtually. At this time, I am not accepting new patients and the waitlist is closed.
I would love to speak with your group, team, or organization about topics such as “Breaking the Cycle of Burnout” and “The Power of Micro Self-Care in the Workplace.”
Workshops, keynotes, and interactive sessions that help leaders, educators, and healthcare professionals operate sustainably without sacrificing impact.
You are the authority of your own healing, personal growth and development. Marketing teaches us to position service providers as ‘authorities’ in the field and I resist that notion. I have knowledge and expertise as a psychologist, and that comes with some inherent power. However, it is important that you always maintain your authority over yourself. Do not put me on a pedestal. That does not serve us.
Life is complex. There are very few things that fit neatly into boxes, quotes, and one-liners. Most of the things I share come with a “it depends.” It’s messy and doesn’t lend itself to the simplicity we are encouraged to put forth. However, I believe this nuance is more TRUE, and I love the truth more than I love success or being right.
I care deeply about my work. My boundaries around my time and what things about my personal life I choose to share are in service of my own wellbeing, and thereby also serve my work. Once again, the encouragement to share it all in an effort to connect on the Internet with strangers is something I resist. I believe our boundaries can be a way to connect in ways that don’t exploit. Thank you for respecting my boundaries.
The wrong application of this common metaphor contributed to my burnout Fortunately, caring for our mental health is less stigmatized than it used to be. Now, it’s quite normal for
Productivity gurus might disagree, but life has taught me otherwise Hustle culture has taught us that routines and consistency are the keys to wellness and success. You have to be
Life laughs at our super detailed self-care checklists You make a plan to make it to your yoga class, meditate more often, take more mindfulness breaks during the day, and