Deciding means jumping in all the way, doing whatever it takes, and going after your dreams with the tenacity of a dateless cherrleader a week before prom night. — Jen Sincero, “You are a Badass”
It’s bold; it’s blunt; it’s motivational and inspiring writing. Sometimes it’s a swift kick in the behind to get moving. But I needed to read the words of a Bonafide Badass.
Excuse my language; it’s the title of the book.
I’ve stumbled upon Jen Sincero’s “You are a Badass” and “You are a Badass at Making Money” at times when I’ve needed it the most. Magic.
The first book, a close female anchor friend bought for me as a gift when I was reporting in Washington State, and probably having daily “What am I doing with my life” meltdowns.
She ran out of advice to give and she figured getting me “You are a Badass” would continue giving me advice. So the copy of the book was on my door in two days.
I’ve bought “You are a Badass” for friends many times over when they’re stuck and searching for a breakthrough. I’ve bought it for friends who have lost confidence. And it’s been a reminder of who they truly are.
Frankly, I read the first book after a break-up. Not an interesting story. But the actual interesting story is how the book lifted me up and helped me see clearly what I wanted, what I needed, and why believing I wasn’t worth or deserved any of those things is akin to folding before the cards are dealt.
About two years later, another friend got me a copy of “You are a Badass at Making Money,” and I’ve given that copy to other friends too.
It’s Jen Sincero’s second book in her Badass series.
And this one is about self-value as well, but it quantifies it differently. People all have weird beliefs around money. Serious intense stigma beliefs.
The book helped me think about value and currency differently. And I think if you feel down on your luck or believe, on the inside, you deserve more… this book will help you believe that on the outside. Reclaim it.
Both these books, a true laugh-out-loud. I have both on audio book so I can reinforce the lessons during long drives, cleaning, or while falling asleep.
And she’s super funny in person. The woman knows her stuff.
Before I go into why this book is an essential guide for women, and for men, let me admit to something:
I had a hardcore Fan Girl moment during Jen Sincero’s visit to Rhode Island through the Point Street Reading Series just a few months ago.
I made sure to get a photo with Jen Sincero and also asked if she was writing another book — “You are a Badass at Finding Love,” anyone?? P.S. That’s a copyright for Jen Sincero only, readers. Don’t take my brilliant idea.
She said “Heck No!” (Replace Heck) to a third book — I hadn’t pitched my brilliant book idea in her series yet, so standby. I will. If her publicist is reading this now, consider that title my pitch.
Anyways, while she was signing my book, Jen Sincero instead tells me remodeling her new home is the only thing she’s thinking.
This, by the way, from a woman who lived in someone’s garage through her 30s. That’s how much she had to climb to get her life to Badass.
The point is, she’s an inspiration for what is possible.
So yeah, I got a photo and an autograph.
Jen Sincero is a captivating speaker because her books tell a story of a relatable “rags to riches.” But her words are encouraging and it’s an “I’ve been there” instead of a “Why aren’t you there yet?”
She’s been poor; she’s been rich. She’s been devastated; she’s been successful.
Jen Sincero’s books remind me of a break-out artist and poet, Morgan Harper Nichols’ words:
Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could be a page in someone else’s survival guide. —Morgan Harper Nichols
Her books are personal, vulnerable survival guide for anyone looking for answers.
It applies to readers at any age, any gender, and no matter where they live. These are truly pages to my own survival guide.
Call it a cult classic that people all over are sharing.
I’m going to stop telling you about the book, and leave you with one more passage:
Have faith. Trust that your new life is already here and is far better than the old. Hang tight if the Big Snooze pitches a fit. Whatever happens, stay the course, because there’s nothing cooler than watching your entire reality shift into one that is the perfect expression of you.
If you read it, share a passage you like with me in the comments!
Hope you enjoy the Good Read ?
