#updatecast: Masking Pain & Masking For A Growth

Have you ever felt like you’re wearing a friendly “everything’s fine” mask even though you’re anything but fine? That’s the starting point of this podcast episode, where I explore the moment I realised my own mask was slipping. It brought up a whirlwind of questions about what’s really going on beneath the surface.

In the episode, I talk about how pain can hide in plain sight. One moment, you think you’re coasting through life, then suddenly you spot a crack. Dry laughter morphs into tears. That’s been my recent experience, and I share a few insights about how I’m trying to own my emotions instead of brushing them under the rug.

The Mask We Wear

Sometimes, I find myself feeling numb without knowing why. It’s easier to say, “I’m good,” than to take a closer look. But the truth is, for many of us, the “I’m good” mask can feel safer than showing vulnerability.

In my latest conversation, I mention how fear of judgement still creeps in. Even after all these years of personal development, I realise it never fully goes away. Understanding it helps me stand in my truth.

“We all wear masks, don’t we? But what if the mask is blocking us from the healing we need?”

Pain as a Signal

Pain often shows up as a harsh nudge. It signals that something might be out of balance. I’ve learned to pay attention when I feel anxious or shut off from the world. Though it’s uncomfortable, it’s usually a signpost telling me to slow down.

Many of us with dyslexia or ADHD learn to overcompensate. We hide confusion behind jokes or big ideas. But I’m starting to see that my emotional stumbling blocks are trying to help me, not harm me. They’re there to catch my attention so I can grow.

Owning Our Principles

It’s tempting to blame the world. It’s tempting to say people don’t understand us. But in this episode, I discuss how important it is to own our decisions and beliefs.

One approach I share is writing down my personal principles. They serve as a reminder that I’m in charge of interpreting life events. The goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s to be present, to notice the role I play when things feel messy, and to handle that with compassion.

Practical Ways to Unmask

I’ve found a few steps help me live more authentically:

• Pause and Breathe: Take a moment to notice where tension sits in your body.
• Check In with Emotions: Ask yourself, “Am I sad, angry, or anxious right now?”
• Share Safely: Find a friend or confidant who won’t judge you for being real.
• Reflect Often: Journalling or voice notes can help you spot patterns over time.

These simple practices can be helpful when you feel that old mask slipping back into place. They remind you it’s possible to coexist with vulnerability and self-compassion.

When It’s Time to Seek Help

I also talk about the tough moments that remind me I’m not alone. Professional support, whether it’s a counsellor or a coach, can offer fresh perspectives. Sometimes, we need another person to shine a light on what we’re busy ignoring. That extra guidance can make all the difference, especially if you’re trying to manage dyslexia or ADHD challenges.

It’s about giving yourself permission to not have it all figured out. The more I explore what’s behind my own pain, the more I notice how connected we all are in our experiences.

• Realising that wearing a mask can protect us, but it can also stop progress
• Understanding pain as a necessary wake-up call
• Owning your beliefs and actions to step into self-awareness
• Taking small but consistent steps to face vulnerability

Curious to hear more? The podcast player at the top has the full episode. Give it a listen to learn how this journey unfolds. You might find a few practical ideas that fit right into your life. Let’s continue this conversation together—press play when you’re ready.