Most of your old mates seem to have disappeared somewhere between work, relationships, kids and life. You find yourself stuck in a routine of work, home, repeat. Maybe you’ve moved to Plymouth recently and don’t know many people. Or perhaps you’re a dad whose social life has shrunk to school runs and bedtime stories. Whatever the reason, it’s easy to feel like your circle’s gotten smaller than you’d like.

Shame is a tough emotion to wrestle with. It sneaks in quietly, often when we least expect it, and can weigh heavily on our sense of self. For many men, especially those over 30, shame can feel like a silent burden—something to hide rather than confront. But here’s the truth: shame doesn’t have to control your life. There are ways to face it, understand it, and move beyond it. I want to share some strategies that have helped me and others on this journey of shame recovery for