Happiful Online Magazine
Dear Happiful reader,
‘He wears his heart on his sleeve.’ ‘They’re so in touch with their emotions.’ ‘She’s an open book.’ The way we perceive vulnerability in others is often with awe and admiration, appreciating their ability to put their true selves in the spotlight.
And yet, our vocabulary becomes vastly different when it comes to baring our own souls. We ‘feel exposed’, ‘caught off guard’, like we’re ‘laying it all on the line’.
It’s a common theme in life that so many qualities we value and applaud in others, we can’t see in ourselves. It’s like we’re looking in a funhouse mirror, reflecting back a distorted version of reality that fills us with shame, regret, and fear.
We tie ourselves up in knots, with the threads of all these impossible and contradictory standards. When, in reality, a little self-compassion and awareness could unearth endless possibilities.
We delve into this very concept in our article on p73, exploring why we judge ourselves so harshly, and highlighting the ways we can be more accepting of vulnerability, as well as revealing the value that learning to embrace it can bring into our lives and relationships.
And in the spirit of opening up, our wonderful writer Fiona brings personal insight into her feature on why it’s never too late to be LGBTQIA+, and how to navigate the journey of letting your authentic self shine (p34).
An effective tool to help you do this can be found on p38, as we reveal how found art can teach us to let go of limitations and expectations. That there is no ‘perfect’ way to express yourself.
And our columnist Michelle discusses the difference between setting boundaries and building walls (p32), to help us recognise where we’re pushing people away under the pretence of self-preservation.
Raw honesty, whether it’s about your feelings, needs, desires, or self, can be intimidating. But, throughout this issue, I hope you find inspiration and courage to know that doing so can reap untold rewards.
When and how you choose to lay your cards on the table is in your hands, but just know that unravelling the mystery of you is a worthwhile pursuit, and one that most certainly should be celebrated.
Happy reading,
Rebecca Thair
Editor-in-Chief
Enjoy the new edition!
Happiful is an online and print magazine with the mission to create a healthier, happier, more sustainable society. Their aim is to provide informative, inspiring and topical stories about mental health and wellbeing. They want to break the stigma of mental health in our society, and to shine a light on the positivity and support that should be available for everyone, no matter their situation.
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