Just say no: 13 ways to get out of everything – from extra work to Christmas parties

Do you yearn to set strong boundaries, but are scuppered by a lifelong tendency to people-please? Here is how to stop now

I drove across the US to meet people I disagree with – and learned how to look beyond labels

As a progressive, queer, Asian-American, I held stereotypical views about people on ‘the other side’. My tour helped me realise that curiosity is a potent force for understanding

Punch a pillow, hug your pet, write to your MP: 22 ways to deal with your anger

From simmering frustration at minor annoyances to boiling rage at the state of the world, many of us are angry at the moment. Experts offer tips and techniques on how to manage it

I used to be a huge people pleaser, but when I became seriously ill I finally learned to say no

After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, I stopped trying to please everyone else. Now I have better relationships and a healthy, joyful life

The buddy boost: how ‘accountability partners’ make you healthy, happy and more successful

The idea of a friend who helps you commit to your goals is growing in popularity – whether you want to get fit, write a novel or build your business

I didn’t fit in Wales, but found my sense of place by understanding its history, and my own

I stood out as different in Llandudno but by learning about its past and mine, it became the home I love

My brother the political prisoner, by Sanaa Seif

I was just his little sister, now I’m trying to free him from an Egyptian prison. By Sanaa Seif

The openness of talking to strangers – and the intimate stories they share

The stories people tell me about their lives can be funny, surprising, tragic or shocking – and some stay with me for years

My grandmother’s support – and Creole cooking – helped me to love myself when I didn’t know how

When I felt lonely growing up, my grandmother’s company and cuisine were a soothing balm

The big idea: why we should spend more time talking to strangers

We focus on friendships, but encounters with those we hardly know are vital too