If I had to summarize You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero in one sentence, I would say that this book is secretly a Law of Attraction and manifestation guide with a funny backdrop and wrapped in self-love. In other words, it's a must-read, and probably everything Jen writes is worth adding to your collection.
Jen Sincero is a Hilarious Writer
I re-read You Are a Badass in a book club this year, seeking a break from heavier self-help books like Atomic Habits and The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F. This gem turned out to be the perfect palette-cleanser, combining practical advice with hilarious storytelling in a not-so-serious package. Reading this book felt like attending a stand-up comedy routine where Jen Sincero invites you into her world, sharing personal anecdotes and adventures.
This was maybe my third time reading the book in the past ten years and every time it brought me joy and good tips to follow for my self-development.
This is one of three Jen Sincero books on the badass topic. She also has You Are a Badass At Making Money and You Are a Badass Everyday. All three are self-help bestsellers filled with personal development humor, helping us relate the Jen as a person while we are on our own self-help journeys.
Is You Are a Badass good for bookclub?
Yes. I loved reading it in a group setting and laughing over some of the stories and hilarious situations Jen found herself in, while also applying the tips and getting advice with friends.
Self-love and Identity Work is at the Heart of Every Tip
One of the standout themes of the book is the recurring theme of self-love. Each chapter concludes with a powerful reminder to love yourself. Initially, it took me a few chapters to notice the consistent message, but once I did, it became a delightful and impactful part of the reading experience. Sincero seamlessly weaves self-love into every tip, making it a central element of personal growth.
Sincero also understands the important need for identity work and redefining who you are and how you think of yourself. She does so with a focus on affirmations, positive talk, manifestation techniques, goal setting techniques, and more.
As an author of an affirmation book, you know this appealed to me.
Every Tip Ends with a Reminder to Love Yourself
What caught my attention was the repetition of this powerful reminder. It served as a thread connecting every section, creating a cohesive narrative that emphasizes the importance of self-love in the journey to becoming a badass. It's a subtle yet profound touch that adds depth to the overall message of the book.
"You are responsible for what you say and do. You are not responsible for whether or not people freak out about it."
- JEN SINCERO
The Big Snooze
There is a focus in this book to let go of your comfort zone. Sincero calls your comfort zone the "big snooze" as in it's boring to stay this way. I love how she made trying new things and taking risks seem like a no-brainer, because no one wants to live a "snooze" life.
"If you are serious about changing your life, you'll find a way. If you're not, you'll find an excuse."
- JEN SINCERO
The way Jen uses humor helps us as readers overcome self-limiting beliefs and make them feel less serious and more approachable. She also has doses of self-deprecating humor, but it's done in a way that isn't too negative. She talks about the transition from the Big Snooze to the Non-BS self in a way that is actionable.
Every chapter has summary points at the end to re-affirm her points in a different format, which helped me as a reader apply the topics.
10th Anniversary Edition of You Are a Badass
YAAB came out in 2013, making it a best seller for 10 years now. In traditional publishing, having a book that is still selling well 10 years later and get new editions is a huge accomplishment. Millions of people have read this book for a good reason, it's a positive way to change your mind, improve your life, feel better about yourself, and an accessible way to learn about the law of attraction.
The 10th anniversary edition has a new forward and some bonus content, with the hardback edition having a new chapter not available in the ebook.
“If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.”
– JEN SINCERO
So there you have it—You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero isn't your typical self-help snoozefest. It's like having a hilarious buddy nudging you to unleash your inner badass. Dive into the Law of Attraction, actually learn how to embody self-love (finally), and let Sincero's witty wisdom spice up your personal development journey. Trust me, I've given it multiple reads, and it's basically a timeless guide that'll have you chuckling and pondering all at once. Totally worth coming back to for its awesome advice and laugh-out-loud stories.
Buy the anniversary edition today to read the bonus chapter. With concepts like meditation 101, how to make your brain your bitch, how to get over fear and finally make decisions - this book is a self-help must read.