When Meera came to me, clutching a neatly wrapped bundle of old letters and journals, her smile seemed as kind and open as her demeanor. But as we began talking, it became evident that beneath her gentle exterior lay years of frustration and unexpressed anger.
Meera’s life, she confessed, felt like a relentless tug-of-war—between what she wanted and what others expected of her. She shared stories of friends calling her “too nice,” family taking her decisions for granted, and colleagues piling tasks onto her plate, knowing she’d never refuse.
“I don’t know why,” she sighed. “I just can’t say no.”
As a handwriting analyst, I had a clue. Meera’s handwriting held the answers. Her script displayed a recurring trait: garlands—connections in the letters that sag below the baseline. This subtle feature told a deeper story of her personality.
What Are Garlands?
According to handwriting analysis, garlands, a combination of curves and loops in handwriting that droop below the baseline, are a hallmark of individuals with a deeply kind and nurturing disposition. These writers often find it challenging to assert themselves, which can lead to a life where their needs are overshadowed by those of others.
People with garlands often harbor a fear of being taken advantage of—a fear that ironically becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
In Meera’s case, the garlands revealed her fear of being perceived as unkind or selfish. This fear made it almost impossible for her to utter the simple yet powerful word “no.” Instead, she would bend over backward to please everyone, often at her own expense.
The Emotional Toll of Being ‘Too Nice’
People with garlands often harbor a fear of being taken advantage of—a fear that ironically becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Their innate kindness, combined with a reluctance to assert their own boundaries, makes them susceptible to manipulation.
Meera’s handwriting revealed this pattern. The drooping connections in her script were symbolic of her tendency to prioritize others’ needs over her own. These traits also pointed to her strong attachment to memories and sentimental objects. “I still have my childhood blanket,” she admitted, laughing.
Such writers often seek emotional security in the familiar—whether through mementos or long-standing relationships. However, this very attachment can make it difficult for them to step out of their comfort zones and advocate for their needs.
When Choices Are Made for Them
One of the most striking insights from Meera’s handwriting was how her reluctance to assert herself had impacted major life decisions. Garlands writers, if they do not actively communicate their desires, often find that others take over their choices—be it in career, marriage, or friendships.
“I let my parents choose my career because I didn’t want to disappoint them,” Meera confessed. “But now, I feel trapped.”
Her handwriting suggested that this pattern had repeated itself throughout her life, leaving her feeling abused, bullied, and, ultimately, resentful.
Breaking the Cycle
Understanding the psychology behind garlands is the first step toward change. For Meera, recognizing her handwriting trait helped her realize the need to take charge of her life. She began practicing small, intentional acts of self-assertion—saying no to trivial requests, expressing her opinions, and setting boundaries.
Gradually, her confidence grew. “It’s liberating,” she told me months later. “For the first time, I feel like I’m living my life, not someone else’s.”
A Lesson for All
Meera’s story is a poignant reminder of how our handwriting reflects not just our personality but also our struggles. Garlands, while indicative of kindness and generosity, can also signal a vulnerability to being exploited if boundaries are not established.
For those who identify with this handwriting trait, here are some tips:
- Practice Saying No: Start small, and remember that declining a request doesn’t make you unkind.
- Communicate Clearly: Share your needs and preferences openly to avoid misunderstandings.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with people who respect your boundaries and encourage your growth.
- Reflect Through Writing: Use journaling as a tool to explore your feelings and strengthen your resolve.
Handwriting is a window into our subconscious, revealing not just who we are but also who we can become. By understanding and addressing the traits reflected in our script, we can rewrite the narrative of our lives—one letter at a time.
Meera’s journey, like the loops in her garlands, came full circle. Once a victim of her own kindness, she transformed into someone who could embrace her generosity while standing firm for herself. Her handwriting, once drooping with hesitation, now reflects her newfound confidence—a testimony to the power of change.
Disclaimer: One element of handwriting may be analysed at a time, but always look at the entire handwriting sample before arriving at any conclusion.
