What was I reading this week? Present over Perfect by Shauna Niequist.
Anyone who reads this blog knows how much I enjoy Shauna Niequist’s writing. What she writes about and how she writes it speak to me at a soul-deep level.
So, the fact that it took me a year to finish Present over Perfect is not a reflection on the book, but on my totally crazy schedule in this season of life. Making reading one of my goals as a part of savoring my hobbies and passions this year is a way for me to focus on the books that I’ve been meaning to read, but never make a priority.
Which is kind of the whole point of the book…
My honest opinion about Present over Perfect
Present over Perfect follows Shauna’s struggle as she tries to change her life from one of striving and hustling, always chasing perfection, to one of intentional presence with the people and things that really matter.
Her honesty in this process is wonderful to behold, not because it’s not painful, but because it’s so real. Real enough that I related to example after example, until I felt like finishing the book was imperative to my own life.
Present over Perfect gives you plenty to think about. It talks about the overwhelming busyness that so many women pursue until it’s practically killing them. It goes into how this constant hustle can push us farther and farther from the people we love, the things we love. And it offers alternatives to the hamster wheel lifestyle.
This book is perfect for anyone who has spent their life always trying to do more, be better, go higher. And it’s for that person who has begun to think that where they’re going might not be worth what they’re leaving behind.
I started this year determined to savor what is important to me. But Present over Perfect reminded me that even my well-intentioned plans could backfire if they just lead to more striving, even of a more pleasurable kind.
If you are looking to read a book that both convicts and offers grace, and is written by someone who knows the struggle of perfectionism and has found a way to say “no” so that she can say “yes” to her priorities, then I’d recommend Present over Perfect to you in a heartbeat. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
Happy Reading!
(Present over Perfect is available for FREE in audiobook form. Just sign up for the FREE AUDIBLE trial and cancel whenever you want!)
So, what are you reading this week? Have any suggestions for me?
Interested in more book? Then check out these posts:
Why I Read So Much & How You Can Read More, Too
What I’m Reading… My Fringe Hours
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Oooooo. GREAT review! You’ve convinced me! I think I need to read this book. My perfectionism has been a lifelong issue for me – even landing me on bed rest for a season! I praise God for teaching me a lot, but I’ve got a lot more to learn!
You should absolutely read it! It helped me a lot and I hope you find some things in it helpful too. Thanks for reading 🙂