Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, Dr. Sterling sits down with Kimberley Quinlan, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD, anxiety, and self-compassion. With her unique background in cognitive behavioral therapy from Oxford and extensive experience treating anxiety disorders, Kimberley shares profound insights on why self-criticism often intensifies in motherhood and how to break free from perfectionism.

Key Moments [45 mins]

00:00 - Introduction to Kimberley Quinlan's expertise 05:30 - The evolutionary roots of self-criticism 12:15 - Why self-compassion is harder in motherhood 18:45 - Breaking free from achievement-based worth 25:30 - Practical self-compassion exercises 35:20 - Modeling self-kindness for our children

Powerful Quotes

"The practice of self-criticism and self-judgment actually has played a role in our evolution... However, now we're not in that threatening environment. We're overusing a strategy that can be helpful in dire situations in everyday life." - Kimberley Quinlan

"Being willing to feel your emotions is actually, it's so simple. But listen... these very simple things of being slightly kinder to yourself and feeling your emotions... can be life changing." - Dr. Sterling

Resources Mentioned

• Kimberley's Website & Podcast
• Kimberley's Instagram: @youranxietytoolkit
• Sterling Parents Membership

Connect With Us

• Follow Ask Dr. Sterling: @askdrsterlingpodcast
• Join Sterling Parents Membership for expert support
• Submit questions: podcast@sterlingparents.com