The Gifts of Imperfection

"4.5 ⭐️ At times this book was a hard read, but not because it was bad. It was hard because I felt called out. Like I had to stop and take a good hard look at myself, my past and my present and make some positive changes. "

"This is a must read for everyone. I think by reading this you learn so much more about yourself and about how others work! If you want to learn more about fear, compassion, and learning that’s it’s okay to NOT be perfect then you’d love this"

"The content here is absolute gold - every ounce of it.<br/><br/>And yet I struggled to read it. Both times. <br/><br/>Even so, I cannot recommend this book enough: Dr. Brown provides a ground-breaking definition and context for understanding shame and shame resilience. More than that, she identifies in an easy-to-read way (after rigorous academic research) the practices that thousands of people have used to create meaningful, wholehearted lives. <br/><br/>By practices, I mean daily rituals, spiritual and emotional disciplines, and holistic, embodied principles for bringing the pieces of our lives together in a meaningful way. (Allow me a moment of geeky ecstasy!) Some of them are the "here's what you do" variety, but most of them are the "here's what you need to figure out for yourself" kind, the hallmark of true wisdom and insight.<br/><br/>Dr. Brown does not approach these practices like a scientific report or a manual, but I think her casual style is what balked me in my own time with the book. I had to hone in on the content very specifically and almost meditatively, as her stories and tone glossed over the powerful, contemplative impact her insight offered. <br/><br/>Of particular value to me this time around was the simple but deep-cutting truths pertaining to practices of cultivating "Meaningful Work," especially in the context of spirituality, creativity, and fun. So I will end with this quote from page 113:<br/><br/>"When we don't use our talents to cultivate meaningful work, we struggle. We feel disconnected and weighed down by feelings of emptiness, frustration, resentment, shame, disappointment, fear, and even grief... Sharing our gifts and talents with the world is the most powerful source of connection with God.""

"The most beautiful and vulnerable book that talks about literally everything in emotional maturity. A summary would be that it’s about shame and empathy. This book helps you to understand yourself, as well as others. Everyone should read this book at least once a year."

"I don’t usually like “self-help” books. However, every sentence felt like Brené was was speaking right to me. Despite being a creative professional, I’ve managed to let all of that go in my “free” time outside of work because it is hard to be creative that long, frankly. I’m excited to apply some of the things I got from this book and see where I am in a few months."

"solid advice about connection and getting back to the heart of who you are, plus this 10th anniversary edition has space for notes and advice on how best to break down and get the most out of it! "

"This book changed my life. A must read for those who struggle with perfectionism/shame (I didn’t know I struggled with the latter until I read this book) "

"Great read. Allows you to examine yourself and your beliefs "

"I love every single one of Brené Brown's books. They remind me of how I want to live my life and the person I want to be for myself and for my family. I love how she's relatable, but she's still able to inspire and motivate you to be better and more authentic."

"Out of the few self help books, I have read this one has been the most insightful. <br/><br/>This is definitely a book that I would consider rereading."