Ep 38. Reframing Perfectionism and Embracing Growth as a New OT
Show Summary:
What really happens between graduating from OT school and stepping into your first real job? That messy, confusing, confidence-shaking gap? It’s a season so many new grads go through—but rarely talk about.
In this episode of The Money Matters in OT Podcast, I’m joined by Desiree Hayes, OTR/L—an incredible occupational therapist, content creator, and new mama—who’s helping early career OTs navigate that exact transition with more clarity, confidence, and self-compassion.
From job interviews and salary negotiations to battling perfectionism and letting go of the pressure to have it all figured out, we’re getting real about what it’s like to move from OT student to practicing clinician. Desiree shares how she found her voice, stopped playing the comparison game, and started embracing the messy middle of being a lifelong learner in this field.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by impostor syndrome, perfectionism, or the pressure to “do it right” in your first year out of school—this episode is for you.
In today’s show, we’re chatting about:
What no one tells you about the transition from OT school to your first job
The emotional ups and downs of the new grad season
Desiree’s tips for job interviews, negotiating salary, and knowing your worth
How perfectionism shows up in early career OT—and how to reframe it
The power of mentorship and community in building clinical confidence
Navigating work-life balance as both an OT and a new parent
Why you’re not alone if you feel like you don’t have it all figured out
Guest Bio:
Desiree Hayes, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist who’s passionate about supporting new grads as they transition from student life to real-world practice. Through her Instagram platform, @theprofessional_ot, she shares honest insights, practical tips, and encouraging reminders for OT students and early career practitioners. Her mission is to help others show up boldly, embrace the messy middle, and build confidence as lifelong learners in OT—and in life.
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