The Gifts of Imperfection
by Brené Brown
In "The Gifts of Imperfection," Brené Brown explores the importance of embracing our vulnerabilities and imperfections as a path to living a more authentic and fulfilling life. She encourages readers to let go of the pressure to be perfect and instead cultivate self-compassion, courage, and connection. Through personal anecdotes and research, Brown offers practical strategies for embracing our true selves and fostering resilience.
15 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from The Gifts of Imperfection, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.
Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best. Perfectionism is, at its core, about trying to earn approval.
We cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.
The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.
What we know matters, but who we are matters more.
Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.
You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are also worthy of love and belonging.
To love ourselves and support each other in the process of becoming real is perhaps the greatest single act of daring greatly.
Shame is the most powerful, master emotion. It's the fear that we're not good enough.
Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.
Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it.
Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves even when we risk disappointing others.
Vulnerability is not weakness. And that myth is profoundly dangerous.
We cannot selectively numb emotions; when we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.
Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.