When Penny Lane launched the Strive to Thrive walking challenge in February 2025, I didn’t expect it to impact me beyond just a daily goal. I’ve always been active—gym classes like HIIT and BodyCombat are already part of my routine—but something about the challenge felt different. It brought an added layer of accountability, camaraderie, and motivation I hadn’t felt in a while.
Instead of just being “active,” I started being consistent.
Each day became an opportunity—not just to hit a number on my step counter, but to motivate one another and to check in and cheer each other on. We weren’t just moving more; we were connecting more. And that made all the difference.
When the challenge ended in February, I didn’t stop. March rolled in and I found myself still going strong, still exceeding 10,000 steps most days. Around that time, my cousin invited me to join her in a 5K at Dodger Stadium. I said yes—partly out of curiosity, partly to keep my momentum going.
Crossing that 5K finish line lit a spark. There was something deeply fulfilling about taking this growing sense of consistency and applying it to something new, something a bit outside my comfort zone. That post-race energy was everything. So, I decided to keep going.
Now, I’m training for a half marathon in early June.
It’s funny how a workplace wellness challenge that seemed simple on the surface ended up shifting my entire outlook on movement. What started as steps turned into a commitment—a deeper connection to my own well-being and a reminder that even the smallest changes can lead to big goals.
If you’re on the fence about joining a wellness challenge, don’t underestimate it. You might just find yourself walking straight into something life changing.
1. Start Small, Stay Consistent
Even if you're already active, a simple, measurable goal—like 10,000 steps—can bring structure and motivation to your routine.
2. Build a Support System
Whether it’s coworkers, friends, or family, having people cheer you on (or join you) makes the journey more fun and sustainable.
3. Turn Movement into Meaning
Training for something like a 5K or half marathon gives your efforts a sense of purpose and direction. It’s about more than fitness, it’s about showing up for yourself.
4. Celebrate the Milestones
Don’t wait for the finish line to recognize your wins. Every extra walk, every class you show up for, every day you keep going—it all matters.
-Nereida Felix, Penny Lane Centers
Check out some more photos below!
Self-Care and Burnout Prevention for Social Service Providers
As an Overnight Clinical Manager for UMCR, a private practice therapist, and professional public speaker, I stay busy. Recently one of the UMCR day staff asked me what a “typical day” looked like for me, as they were curious when I sleep and how I manage it all. I provided the answer, and in doing so, she realized I practice what I preach, time management, boundaries, and very routine self-care.
As social service providers, we hold space for the most vulnerable members of society, offering compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support. But in doing so, it's easy to lose sight of our own well-being. Burnout doesn't happen overnight—it creeps in quietly through emotional exhaustion, detachment, and the overwhelming sense that your work is never truly done. It's not a sign of weakness; it's a sign that your humanity is alive and deeply connected. The first step to prevention is acknowledging that you, too, are worthy of the same care you so freely give to others.
Self-care for social service professionals must go beyond the occasional spa day. Real prevention is rooted in daily habits: setting clear boundaries, taking uninterrupted breaks, limiting after-hours communication, and seeking professional or peer support when needed. Emotional resilience isn’t about suppressing stress—it’s about managing it through time management, reflective practices, and sustainable workloads. Regularly check in with yourself: How am I feeling physically, emotionally, and mentally? What do I need today?
Remember, your impact is too important to be sacrificed at the altar of overwork. The best way to serve your clients is to show up whole, well, and replenished. Protecting your energy is not selfish—it’s essential. Whether you’re a case manager, therapist, leader/manager, or advocate, make self-care a non-negotiable part of your professional routine. When you thrive, so does your work.
Here are 3 quick and effective movement break options you can do right in your office during an uninterrupted (hopefully scheduled) break to boost energy, relieve tension, and support burnout prevention:
Set a timer and take a brisk walk from your desk to the farthest point in your building or office space—use stairs if possible. Focus on your breathing and posture. This short burst of movement increases circulation, boosts mental clarity, and gives your eyes and brain a much-needed screen break.
While seated, try this quick stretch series:
Stand behind your chair, feet hip-width apart. Inhale, reach your arms overhead; exhale, fold forward and let your arms dangle to/near the floor (or rest on the desk). Slowly roll up to standing, stacking your spine one vertebra at a time. Add in calf raises or gentle side lunges to get your blood flowing. This mindful movement resets your nervous system and energizes your body.
💡 Tip: Set a calendar reminder for a daily “move minute”—your body and brain will thank you.
