I'm reading - or rather, rereading - The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You are Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brene Brown.
In her preface, Brene Brown reminds us that she has done a great deal of research on shame. In this research, Brown gathered stories of how shame has kept people small, hidden, and disconnected from others and themselves.
We can all relate to that!
She also collected stories of people who were not crushed by their shame. Instead, these folks embrace their vulnerability and live inspiring lives. They live and love with their whole hearts. As she dissected their stories, Brown identified commonalities in those who live wholeheartedly and distilled them into 10 Guideposts. These she has generously shared with us so that we may also live wholehearted lives.
Dosen't that sound delicious?
Brown's guidebook on wholehearted living is a call to action. We must jump in and put the guideposts into practice every day. Brown supports our efforts with worksheets, a workbook, and podcasts. Take a look at her website: https://brenebrown.com/hubs/the-gifts-hub/
I've also created journal prompts to encourage you to jump in with both feet and your whole heart.
Read the Preface in The Gifts of Imperfection and answer these questions:
1. What are patterns you’ve noticed with yourself?
2. What does Wholehearted mean to you?
3. The author talks about (pg x and xi) being dismayed when she realized hard work,
striving to get it right, and always trying to better yourself weren’t the road to
Wholehearted living. How do you feel about that?
4. The author talks about (pg xii and xiii) about “unraveling”. The word makes me think of
a sweater one has knitted and then sees that it doesn’t look right. The knitter unravels it and makes something different or better with the yarn. What are unraveling times you have had? Are you in one now?
5. The author talks about (pg xiii) her need to please, perform, and perfect. Write or draw what life is like when pleasing, performing, and perfecting are your driving goals. What is a more authentic way to live? Write or draw what an authentic life is like. Do you believe it is possible to live this authentic life?
6. Post (on a wall, mirror, or Insta) a reminder to practice courage, compassion, and connection daily. What are your action steps for each?