Dr Carrie Hayward is a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist whose life’s work is to help individuals live more consciously and purposefully. Specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Carrie advocates for psychological flexibility and resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges. In 2022, she spent six months in Zanzibar, Tanzania, living and serving in a different community, enriching her understanding of what it truly means to be present and interconnected.
A profound and impactful lesson on coping with life’s unexpected changes, from a specialist in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Winnie is experiencing psychological distress due to an unwelcome change in her life. When her attempts to control the situation only heighten her distress, she embarks on a journey to find her lost ‘sunshine’. Will she discover the true source of happiness and meaning in her life?
The Lost Sun explores the difficulty of dealing with change, something that affects us all as humans. The concise, insightful narrative uses metaphor to delve into the complex workings of human psychology, and make them accessible for all readers. The narrative concludes with a deep exploration of a unique teaching, and a practical process for readers to implement in their lives. The result is an essential guide for leading a confident and fulfilling life amidst adversities.
The Being Human Series
This is one of four books in the Being Human series, a self-help collection that dives into the complexities of the human condition. Based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy teachings, the stories focus on the importance of developing psychological resilience to help us deal with life’s challenges. Each book stands alone but, when read together, offers a thorough understanding of our shared human experience.
“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 What Makes You Stronger.
“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 Power of Small.
“Carrie has an incredible ability to clearly identify and articulate the complexity, the struggle and the beauty of the human experience. As a result, reading these books/this book can help us feel less alone in our sometimes challenging journey of life. She harnesses the power of story, and adds evidence-based theory and accessible strategies. In doing so, she offers us both a companion for life and a practical resource to support us to live with more purpose, passion and connection. I cannot wait to recommend these beautiful books/this beautiful book to all of my clients as well as savor my very own copies”
Liv Downing – Psychologist, Meditation & Mindfulness teacher, Author.
“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.