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Published on:

6th Aug 2026

Self-Acceptance vs Self-Optimisation: Which Wins?

Are you always trying to improve yourself or is it time to accept where you are?

In this episode of Inner Work, Dr Marianne Trent explores self-acceptance, perfectionism, alcohol, and the pressure to keep optimising ourselves.

💬 Where do you draw the line between growth and acceptance?

#InnerWork #SelfAcceptance #MentalHealth

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⚠️ Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk.© Dr Marianne Trent

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About the Podcast

Psychology, Actually
Real conversations about the psychology shaping our lives, work, and relationships
🎙️ Psychology, Actually with Dr Marianne Trent is a podcast about what’s really going on beneath the surface of our lives.

Through conversations with psychologists, professionals, and inspiring guests, we explore the psychology shaping our work, our relationships, and our inner worlds bringing together clinical insight with genuine human understanding.

This show was previously known as The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, and while it continues to support aspiring and qualified psychologists, it has grown into something broader. Because psychology doesn’t just shape our careers, it influences how we parent, how we grieve, how we connect, and how we cope when life doesn’t go to plan.

Alongside expert interviews, Dr Marianne Trent shares reflective solo episodes - making sense of complex human experiences with compassion, curiosity, and clarity.

Featuring conversations with leading voices in psychology including Professor Paul Gilbert, Dr Lucy Johnstone, and Dr Martha Deiros Collado - the podcast brings together a range of perspectives on what it means to live, work, and think psychologically.
New episodes are released every Monday at 6am (UK time).

Whether you’re an aspiring psychologist, a qualified practitioner, or simply someone interested in understanding yourself and others more deeply, this podcast offers thoughtful conversations that stay with you.

If you value the show please rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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About your host

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Marianne Trent

Dr Marianne Trent is a qualified clinical psychologist and trauma and grief specialist. She also specialises in supporting aspiring psychologists and in writing compassionately for the media.