Grace Not Perfection: Embracing Simplicity, Celebrating Joy. One of my favorite quotes, and a tagline that my heart can align with. Everything about this book captivated me. You may remember, if you follow along on Instagram, that I finished this book just about when I started it. It was THAT good. I even put it in my minimalist gift guide. Aside from being pretty (which, let’s be honest, we definitely judge books by their covers – and this one is perfection) this has been one of the most transformative books I’ve read in some time.
Earlier this year, I wrote about finding joy in simplicity. This is something I’ve really been striving for for quite some time now. Decluttering, organizing, etc – I’ve got that down. But one of the best things about this book was the permission to say no. To not be the perfect image of whatever expectations we have set up in our minds. Emily’s words felt like the nudging of a friend over coffee. I loved how captivating her words were but also how encouraging they were. I loved the practicality of the book as well. Anything that doesn’t just tell me to make a list, but offers me space to do so is a winner. I adore guidance with pragmatism built in.
As a working mom, I seldom have time for “me”. I’ve always thought it doesn’t matter if I get my nails done or wear expensive makeup, or highlight my hair because I was saving money on these items that could be spent on other things. But this was when I was guaranteed the time to a long shower daily, really fix my hair more than once a week, and do my own pedicures. I never realized how much I enjoy doing all of those things that make me feel beautiful and put together (on a budget 😉 but still) until I wasn’t doing them all the time. This past year (well really two including pregnancy) has been downright draining. I’ve never been one to be the center of attention, but I never realized how much time I was able to focus on myself (beauty, shopping, reading, blogging, etc) until I wasn’t.
I love that Emily structures the book to flow much like the Celebration of Discipline series we’re working through. Focus on yourself first. Then you can pour out to your people. And then you can pour into your community & career. More than anything, this book has been a gateway to finally allowing myself to say yes to what I love, no to what isn’t needed, and declutter my whole life for what matter most. It’s not magical, it’s just true. And the way Emily presents it is heartfelt and completely genuine. So seriously, grab your copy today. It’s truly lifegiving!
