The Mirror Never Lies
Welcome to the first edition of The Stories She Told in 2025!
As we step into a fresh chapter, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves - and the ones we often forget to write. This month, we explore a tale that’s both personal and universal: a story about neglecting emotional needs in the chaos of life. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most courageous thing you can do is listen to your heart and prioritize yourself.
Meera was always the dependable one. In her bustling Kolkata apartment, mornings began with the aroma of brewing tea and her steady voice orchestrating the day for her family. A marketing executive by profession and a mother of two, Meera managed her life like clockwork, leaving no room for error - or herself.
Meera had spent years running - running to meet deadlines, running to keep her family’s world spinning, and running away from herself. She was everyone’s anchor, the calm in every storm. But anchors, too, need rest.
It was New Year’s Eve when Meera felt it - the ache in her chest, the weight of exhaustion pressing her down. As fireworks painted the Kolkata sky, she found herself in the quiet of her bedroom, staring into a mirror, her reflection in the mirror unfamiliar. What stared back wasn’t just her reflection; it was the shadow of a woman who had forgotten how to dream. She thought about the resolutions she’d never made, the self-care rituals she’d postponed, and the dreams shelved for later. That night, her chest tightened - both physically and emotionally.
Meera’s husband, Ajay, had always called her a force of nature. “You’re the reason we’re all okay,” he’d say. But in the stillness of that night, Meera wondered, Who’s holding me together? Her hands trembled as she touched the fine lines that had crept onto her face, each one a testament to nights spent worrying about others, not herself.
The next day, a visit to the doctor confirmed what her heart already knew - she was breaking. Years of neglect had led to hypertension, a body and mind screaming for attention.
The diagnosis was a turning point. Her first steps were hesitant. She joined a meditation group, started reading books she loved, and dared to reclaim Sunday afternoons for herself. She finally started saying “no” to commitments that drained her. She even cried when she told Ajay she needed his help managing the home. To her surprise, he held her and said, “Finally, Meera. It’s about time you thought about you.”
Though it felt selfish at first, her renewed focus on herself began to ripple outward. Weeks turned into months, and the changes were small but powerful. Her daughter noticed she laughed more freely. Her son, who used to hesitate before asking for help, now sought her out just to chat. Even her coworkers mentioned her newfound glow.
But the biggest shift was internal. Meera no longer felt guilty for pausing. She learned that self-care wasn’t a luxury - it was survival. And more importantly, it was love: for her, for those around her, and for the life she deserved to lead.
This New Year, take Meera’s journey as a sign. Listen to your heart, your body, and your dreams. Because sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is choose yourself.
Your Voice Matters – Share Your Story
I believe that learning is a collective journey, and your experiences are just as valuable as the narratives I share. I invite you to share your experience and story. Your submission will be featured in an upcoming newsletter and could inspire countless professionals navigating their own paths. You can message me on LinkedIn or email me at lifeartcanvas@gmail.com.
Thank you for being part of ‘The Stories She Told’ community.
Until next month, may we all find a moment of reflection, a dose of understanding, and the courage to look within.
Stay tuned for more stories of growth, resilience, and transformation. See you soon!