What Happens When You Keep Pouring from an Empty Cup?

It seems counterintuitive, right? What are you pouring if your cup is empty? My response is—exactly!

When you finish a glass of water, you call it empty. There’s nothing left but sediment and the last few drops that can’t quench anyone’s thirst. It’s disappointing. So why do we expect to run a business, stay creative, and hit our goals while running on empty?

Signs You’re Pouring from an Empty Cup

I’m no scientist, but I do know what entrepreneur burnout feels like. Here are some telltale signs:

• Lack of patience (small things feel overwhelming)

• Lack of focus (struggling to complete tasks)

• Extended periods of low creativity

• Inability to make time for what’s important

• Doom-scrolling or mindlessly consuming content without feeling better

• Working hard but accomplishing nothing meaningful

• Strained relationships (because you’re always drained)

• Making decisions out of fear instead of strategy

Sound familiar? Don’t be like me. I ignored the signs until I had no choice but to stop. My life turned upside down before I realized that avoiding burnout isn’t just about taking breaks—it’s about building a business that actually supports your life.

Self-Care for Entrepreneurs: How to Start Refilling Your Cup

If you’re thinking, “Teri, this sounds like me, but I don’t have time for self-care,” I hear you. But you don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Start small with these three easy changes:

• Journaling for 10 minutes a day

• • Morning: Write your intention for the day.

  • Evening: Reflect and release stress before bed.

• 3 minutes of intentional breathing

• • Breathe in for 4 seconds, breathe out for 8 seconds (longer exhales trigger relaxation).

  • This signals to your nervous system that you’re safe to relax and refocus.

• Set limits on screen time & social media

• • Decide how much scrolling is actually healthy for you.

  • Set your phone to shut off apps at a certain time so you’re not stuck in an endless scroll.

The Results? A Full Cup Changes Everything

As you begin to prioritize your well-being, here’s what happens:

• Increased patience – You respond to challenges thoughtfully instead of reacting out of stress.

• Creative energy returns – Your mind feels lighter, making space for innovation and problem-solving.

• More time for what matters – Your soul craves what fills your cup, and you’ll naturally start making time for it.

• Less social media, more real life – You’re no longer escaping into screens because you feel more fulfilled IRL.

• Working smarter, not harder – You get more done with less effort because you’re focused and intentional.

• Stronger relationships – When you’re in a better place, the people around you feel it too.

• Decisions from trust, not fear – Instead of grasping for control, you start operating from abundance and confidence.

Want Support While You Do This? Let’s Work Together.

Inside the Collective, we don’t just talk about business strategy—we talk about how to run a successful business without sacrificing yourself in the process. Whether you work with me 1:1 or in a group setting, we create a plan that makes sure you’re thriving, not just surviving—one step at a time.

Ready to make real shifts in your life and business? Let’s do this together.