The Being Human series is a collection of books that use metaphor to explore the innate challenges of human psychology. Based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) teachings, the stories focus on the importance of developing psychological flexibility to help us deal with life’s challenges: allowing us to live a more mindful, value-based and purposeful life.

Reviews

“Carrie’s story, The Woman Who Lost the Sun, is a timely reminder of how easy it is for us to get lost in the gloom and to then go looking for life; it is always right here with us. This is a delightful story with illustrations that can help us pause and reconnect. Dr Hayward has written a charming story that fits the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.“

Louise Hayes, PhD, Clinical Psychologist.Past President and Fellow, Association for Contextual Behavioural Science. Author of The Thriving Adolescent, Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life for Teens and Your Life Your Way.

“Dr. Hayward captures beautifully the struggle that is all too familiar to many of us - the desire to be happy and comfortable at the cost of our contentment and connection on a moment-by-moment basis. Through the protagonist Winnie, you will learn to find your internal sunshine once more.”

Aisling Leonard-Curtin, Chartered Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland. Peer-reviewed ACT Trainer. Co-author of the The Power of Small.

“We can all relate to Winnie… the power of connecting to story telling has a profound impact on our acceptance of the experience we are living. Asking the question “Who is the person I want to be right now” should be noted everyday, and then connecting the answers to your emotional experience so that you can choose your process as best you can. Thanks Carrie for sharing what can be a complex ideology into a simpler practice of acceptance.”

Lance Picioane, Founder and CEO of Love Me Love You

“The Woman Who Lost the Sun is a delightful introduction to the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and in particular, the importance of living in alignment with your values. Carrie's caring and creative approach make this engaging little book an accessible and enjoyable read for people of all ages."

Kate James, Mindfulness coach. Author of Create Calm.

"This delightful little book by Dr Hayward, will light up your day. It would be gorgeous to give as a gift, to have in your waiting room or to live beside your bed. It is a modern day fable with a deeper meaning conveying hope and action to move you towards living the life you need. Dip into it when you need a pick me up, or when you want to feel less alone when life gets dark. It’s a gorgeous book for anyone!“

Rachael O’Connor, Psychologist. ACT Therapist. Director of The Therapy Spot.

“The Woman Who Lost the Sun is a truely captivating story that illuminates a path back home to ourselves. Dr Hayward powerfully brings to life what is arguably one of the most urgent and important question of our time - who do we want to be right now?” 

Cassandra Goodman, Author of Self-Fidelity.