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Gifts of Imperfection: Week 2
Books

Gifts of Imperfection: Week 2

Building authenticity and self-compassion

Liz Ryan's avatar
Liz Ryan
Mar 20, 2025
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journals on the journey
journals on the journey
Gifts of Imperfection: Week 2
2
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Read: Guideposts #2–5

[note: I realized that page numbers may not match all versions of the book (duh!), so I removed them going forward. Apologies for the confusion!]


Catch the kick-off post with all the Book Club details here:

Books

Book Club: Gifts of Imperfection Kick-Off

Liz Ryan
·
Mar 4
Book Club: Gifts of Imperfection Kick-Off

What if the key to a more joyful, meaningful life wasn’t about being more—more productive, more perfect, more in control—but about embracing exactly who you already are?

Read full story

And catch up with Week 1 here:

Gifts of Imperfection: Week 1

Gifts of Imperfection: Week 1

Liz Ryan
·
Mar 11
Read full story

This week, we’re really getting into the meat of the book with Guideposts 2-5. I love the DIG deep framework for tangible action:

  • Get deliberate

  • Get inspired

  • Get going

Is there a specific Guidepost you’re wrestling with more than others from this first half? How are you working to DIG deep?

dog on seashore
Photo by Janusz Maniak on Unsplash

Choose a prompt below and share what resonates with you from this section:

Consider the phrase, “Authenticity is a daily practice.” What small actions or mindset shifts help you show up as your most authentic self?

In Guidepost #3, Brené talks about the dangers of comparison. Where do you see comparison showing up in your life, and how does it impact you? How are you working to let go of comparison and, instead, foster self-compassion?

What is your relationship with gratitude? Do you have any daily practices that help you cultivate it? (If so, share them! I’d love to compile a list)

In Guidepost #5, Brené discusses numbing behaviors—things we turn to when we want to avoid discomfort (e.g., overworking, scrolling, food, alcohol). What are some of your go-to numbing strategies, and how can you replace them with healthier coping mechanisms? (Again, I’d love to crowd-source a list here!)

See you in the comments!

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You can also chime into the subscriber chat as you’re reading. See you there!

Do you know someone else who would enjoy this discussion? Invite them to join us! The more, the merrier.

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Stay tuned for the rest of our discussion:

Week 3: Cultivating Joy & Creativity: March 28th

📖 Read: Guideposts #6–9

Week 4: Meaning, Spirit, & Wholehearted Living: April 8th

📖 Read: Guidepost #10 + Final Thoughts

Optional Zoom discussion on April 8th at 12pm PT/3p ET – sign up with the link below!

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