We talk about love, family, friendship and even boundaries — but we rarely talk about this: the relationship we have with ourselves.

In this episode, Claire Fitzsimmons is joined by therapist Sarah Rees to explore the quiet power of self-compassion and why it’s the most overlooked relationship of all. Sarah shares how her work evolved from cognitive behavioural therapy and nursing to compassion-focused therapy, and why that shift changed everything — for her clients and for herself.

They explore practical ways to check in with ourselves (especially when it feels uncomfortable), the difference between thinking your emotions and feeling them, and how self-awareness isn’t just about you — it’s what allows you to show up more fully for others too.

If you’re someone who finds it easier to help everyone but yourself, or if you're always searching for the “fix” outside of you, this conversation is a gentle reminder that sometimes just remembering ourselves is what we need too.

00:49 The Importance of Self-Compassion

02:40 Applying Self-Compassion in Daily Life

05:04 The Role of Therapy and Mindfulness

07:55 Practical Tips for Self-Check-In

13:20 Evolving Perspectives on Mental Health

About Sarah Rees

Sarah Rees is a CBT therapist with over 30 years of experience working in mental health. She is trained in EMDR and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and works with clients both online and from her private practice in Wilmslow, Cheshire. Sarah supervises on Professor Paul Gilbert’s CFT Diploma and is the author of The Therapist’s Guide to Private Practice: Building a Values-Based Business. She specialises in helping therapists set up and grow sustainable private practices with self-funding clients and consistent income. Sarah also runs Therapists Corner, a Substack and online community offering practical, values-led support for therapists in business. You can find her on Instagram at @sarahdrees.co.uk and at sarahdrees.co.uk.

About Claire Fitzsimmons

Claire is the host of A Thought I Kept, a wellbeing writer and the co-founder of If Lost Start Here, a company on a mission to get people to a better place, sometimes literally. As an ICF Associate Certified Coach and a certified Emotions Coach Practitioner, Claire helps women navigate the everyday lost moments of their lives.

Learn more about Claire and how to work with her here.

If this conversation stayed with you, you’ll find more reflections, journal prompts, and bonus content waiting for you on More Good Days. Subscribe free (or join The Wellery for video episodes and guided practices) here: https://moregooddays.substack.com

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