How One Professional Rebuilt Her Confidence and Created a Self-Care Routine That Works

Burnout doesn’t always look like exhaustion at your desk or late-night emails.

Sometimes, it’s much quieter.

It shows up as self-doubt that lingers, a lost sense of direction, or the heavy question: “What now?”

That was where Hayley found herself. A capable, intelligent and highly skilled professional facing the emotional toll of a difficult workplace experience that had impacted both her confidence and her career.

What we focused on together wasn’t just career coaching in the traditional sense. It was about rebuilding her foundation.

“Since starting with Merly, I’ve noticed a positive shift in my confidence and sense of professional identity… Merly creates a safe, non-judgmental space where I can show up as I am.”

In our sessions, we explored what self-care really looks like during recovery:

• Letting go of unrealistic expectations

• Validating the emotional weight of her experience

• Reconnecting with her values and strengths

• Finding moments of pride again

• And carving out tiny but powerful acts of self-kindness

Some days were focused on practical strategies. Others were simply about holding space. Both were valuable.

“Merly tailors each session to meet my needs in the moment, whether that’s sharing knowledge, offering reassurance, providing actionable advice, or celebrating my wins. Through our work together, I’ve gone from feeling low in confidence to reconnecting with a sense of pride in my achievements.”

Hayley’s version of self-care wasn’t about ticking boxes or bouncing back quickly.

It was about healing, on her own terms.

And slowly, the fog began to lift.

Burnout recovery isn’t about bouncing back. It’s about coming back to yourself gently, and on your own terms.

This is what rebuilding confidence and self-care can actually look like.

If you’re recovering from burnout, work stress, or psychological injury, know this:

You are not broken.

You’re in a season that requires care, not criticism.

Coaching can help you reconnect with your strengths, rebuild your confidence, and move forward gently, with support, and at your own pace.

I’d be honoured to walk with you.

Reach out to start the conversation.