Welcome to Befriending Yourself

My new Substack newsletter is all about stories, tools, and perspectives that are helping me and others on our collective journey towards unshakeable self-compassion.

For my existing subscribers, I’ve added you to my new Substack publication. You can expect the same great resources and perspectives about mindfulness—with an added focus on the practice of self-compassion. You don’t need to do anything—just keep an eye on your inbox. (And if you don’t want to be here for any reason, you can unsubscribe anytime!)

Welcome to Befriending Yourself!

I started this newsletter because I’ve learned just how much our inner voice shapes our lives—and how often, that voice can be unkind or even downright mean.

For years, I lived with a harsh inner critic that made me consistently doubt myself, stay stuck in over-analysis and ultimately led me to burn out.

What changed everything was discovering the practice of self-compassion—not as a vague idea, but as a real, practical, and transformative way of cultivating a healthier relationship with myself.

We can be more of the person we know is possible when we get in the habit of self-kindness. - Tara Brach

Self-compassion isn’t about ignoring your flaws or pretending everything’s fine. It’s about allowing yourself to be human. It’s about meeting your struggles with care instead of judgment, and recognizing that pain and imperfection are part of the shared human experience—not proof that you’re broken or can’t keep up.

This newsletter is my space to explore that journey more deeply. I’m writing to share stories, tools, and perspectives that have helped me develop greater inner kindness.

But I’m also writing for anyone else who’s tired of treating themselves like a never-ending project. If you’ve ever felt like self-criticism is your default mode, or like you have to earn rest, love, or ease—you’re not alone.

I believe we’re all doing our best, even when we fall short. And I believe self-compassion isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a radical, healing practice that can change how we live. Thanks for being here as we explore it together

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