Behind the Smile

Unmasking the Silent Battles We Hide and the Strengths We Find

By: Rob Goddard

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Paperback | 21 May 2025

At a Glance

Paperback
408 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
23.39 x 15.6 x 2.31

Paperback

RRP $38.45

$34.75

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We all wear masks. They protect us.

They help us fit in. But they don't define us.

Growing up as a gay kid in a small town, Rob Goddard learned early on that survival meant adaptation. The Mask of Conformity ensured he blended in, avoiding scrutiny. Later, as he navigated the unpredictability of an alcoholic parent, the Mask of the Rescuer became a shield against pain. Throughout his life, the Mask of Approval made him seek validation, molding himself to fit the expectations of others.

As life continued, the Mask of Independence taught him to rely on no one but himself. And when the weight of it all became too much, the Mask of Normalcy allowed him to pretend everything was fine, even when it wasn't.

But with every challenge-uncertainty, loss, grief-he added more masks, each one promising protection but slowly eroding his true self. Until one day, he realized: the masks he wore to survive were suffocating the person he was meant to be.

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Through raw personal stories, powerful insights, and deep reflection, Behind the Smile invites you to:

Recognize the masks you wear and why you wear them
Understand when they serve you and when they hold you back
Redefine vulnerability as a source of strength
Let go of unrealistic expectations and the need to fit in
Build deeper, more meaningful connections
Live with unapologetic authenticity

The time has come to shed the masks that no longer serve you.

Step into the most unfiltered, liberated version of you-because your healing and transformation begin now.

Industry Reviews

"Raw, unflinching, and deeply moving - a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability."

- Steve Pennells, TV Presenter / Journalist

"A highly thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read that stays with you."

- Leighton Phair, Director

"A deeply personal, intelligent, and practical guide to emotional healing and self-discovery."

- Jim Cocks, Business Coach & Bestselling Author

"Behind the Smile changed how I see myself - and gave me tools to grow."

- Amazon Verified Review

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Behind the Smile

Unmasking the Silent Battles We Hide and the Strengths We Find

At a Glance

Paperback

Industry Reviews

Shipping

How to return your order

Defective items

You Can Find This Book In

More in Assertiveness, Motivation & Self-Esteem & Positive Mental Attitude

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How Lucky Am I

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Emotional Agility

Get Unstuck, Embrace Change and Thrive in Work and Life

We Should All be Feminists

Outwitting the Devil®

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Grit

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Breakthrough program to end negative behaviour and feel great again

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Are you Anxious, Avoidant or Secure? How the science of adult attachment can help you find â" and keep â" love

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