Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be

Right from the beginning of the introduction it grabbed me! “You, and only you, are ultimately responsible for who you become and how happy you are.” Guys how powerful is that?!? So the basic premise of the book is Rachel addressing 20 lies that have been instrumental in her life. At the end of each chapter, she discusses three specific, tangible ways she addressed that lie. The overall goal is to teach you self-awareness to identify the lies you tell yourself and to target those head on. Although I did not identify with each and every lie during this season of my life, I got a little something out of every chapter. I can totally see myself re-reading this book once or twice a year and gaining something new every time. At first I was afraid that because I don’t have children I wouldn’t get anything from the book, but that is totally not true! Yes, Rachel talks about her children and being a mother but that’s not what the book is about. This book came along at the perfect time in my life to slap me in the face and light a fire under my butt. Seriously, I needed motivation some kind of bad and this book was life changing for me. I also loved that Rachel dropped in little religious tidbits. It wasn’t necessarily a “Christian book” but had just enough in there to let me know Jesus sent this book my way. Rachel is real and raw and in your face but at this season in my life that’s what I needed. Don’t pick it up if you’re passive about making some changes. Or maybe do pick it up and it’ll slap you around like it did me. Either way every woman needs this book whether you’re 18 or 80 there truly is something for everyone. Top three things I learned from this book: 1. Stop making and keeping promises to everyone else and start keeping promises to your own dang self! 2. No one decides how big your dreams can be but YOU. Also write down your goals and speak them aloud 3. Gods has perfect timing. 4. Ok one more because I can’t narrow it down to three – EMBRACE THE CHAOS AND LOVE THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING, RIGHT NOW, TODAY! I could sit here and quote this whole book because it’s that good but because I want you to go out and buy it for yourself, I’m going to leave you with some of my favorite quotes/advice/ “You must choose to be happy, grateful and fulfilled. If you make that choice every single day, regardless of where you are or what’s happening, you will be happy.” “You are in charge of your own life, and there’s not one thing in it that you’re not allowing to be there.” “Nobody – not a voice of authority, not your mama, not the foremost expert in your arena – gets to tell you how big your dreams can be. They can talk all they want…but you get to decide if you’re willing to listen to them” “Your dream is worth fighting for, and while you’re not in control of what life throws at you, you are in control of the fight.” “Nothing that lasts is accomplished quickly. Nobody’s entire legacy is based on a single moment, but rather the collection of one’s experiences. If you’re lucky, your legacy will be a lifetime in the making.” “Pretty good is way better than trying to fake perfection any day of the week.” “God has perfect timing. Maybe that goal wasn’t ever meant to be yours. Maybe you have to walk through this space that you’re in to be ready for that. Nothing is wasted. Every single moment is preparing you for the next.” “Someone else’s opinion of you is none of your business.” “Don’t hide your light under a bushel because you’re too afraid someone won’t like the glare.” Okay I’m going to stop now because seriously there’s just too much good stuff in this book! Go pick it up for yourself! Borrow it from the library if you have to. Several chapters from the audiobook are listed on Rachel’s podcast, Rise, which is also awesome all by itself. Instagram @mrsrachelhollis Website: thechicsite.com Podcast: Rise by Rachel Hollis

I first heard this as an audio tape... Read by the author. But let's back up... A friend of mine on Facebook had asked if anyone was reading this, apparently it was new and she bought it and LOVED it, she wanted to see if anyone else was reading it and if someone wanted to discuss it with her as they went. I don't have the time for mini book clubs, but I figured that I do enjoy a good book, so I commented that if she recommended it so highly, I was going to look at it- everyone on that thread commented back to me that I "needed it," and how "wonderful" and "relatable" it was. Some time passed and I didn't have much time to sit down, but I ran across the free audiobook somewhere and was pleasantly surprised that Rachel Hollis reads it HERSELF. Not only did that make the book far more relatable because you could hear raw emotions, but it also made it to where I felt compelled to reference certain parts in the book. After I completed the audiobook the first time, I ordered the book, read it, and then listened to the audiobook again. This book is VERY well put together, and although I typically do not like 'fad reading material,' I found this book to be VERY compelling. There's something about the text that makes it relatable, even for someone who has not gone through a situation... For those of us who HAVE gone through situations, this book discusses; relationships (failing and successful as well as growing), suicide, adoption, children, marriage, and so much more. A friend of mine talked to me about changes he saw in a family member, he told me his concerns and I told him that I felt this book would be helpful. I sent him a review I had seen on it, and he told me he was checking the local book store- I am certain that he forgot to get it for the family member, but I think this book would be very helpful for the young lady still. Honestly, for anyone who feels like they are in a low place, or even a medium place, this book is a great idea. I know there is a second book coming soon, I am undecided if I want to read that one at this point, but this book really lifted my spirits. I would recommend buying this, in fact, I may order it for another person I know who needs to be reminded that they are worth everything, on all days.

What an uplifting read. Rachel’s infectious energy, tell-it-like-it-is, vulnerable, upbeat attitude gives this book life. For too long this society has shoved down women’s throats [in more ways than one] how we are expected to think, dress, act, walk, talk; what we’re supposed to look like, who we’re supposed to talk to, what we’re supposed to eat, what careers we’re supposed to have or not have, who we’re supposed to date, how to parent, etc. Rachel single-handedly breaks down these barriers by telling her raw, natural, real truth. My only critique would be her frequent references to Christianity. If that’s how she has been able to successfully navigate through this brutal thing we call life, then more power to her! I’m a die hard Catholic girl, myself. But if we’re preaching about touching the souls of women from all walks of life, I think it’s important to be mindful that not all are going to feel empowered or connected in that way. Some may actually feel the opposite. Regardless; the world needs more people like Rachel Hollis. Women empowering other women. Teaching us not to be afraid to look inside ourselves, and dissect our innermost workings. The good, the bad, and the hideously ugly. I had an earth-shifting moment about halfway through this book. As a 28 year old, which a masters degree in Social Work, and a full-time government job, I had a pain-stakingly uncomfortable realization. I don’t have any real goals. Sure, there are trajectories in which I would like to see my career go, all of which feel hopelessly unattainable. (I will argue with anyone who wants to go toe-to-toe, that social work is undoubtedly the most unforgiving, thankless career imaginable.) Those stories Rachel was telling about foster care and the broken system? They’re more real than you can possibly imagine. And we live it every day. In fact, it pays our bills. (Except not.) But of course, that’s not why we do it. My “life goals” at this point are to be married, buy a house in the country, and start a family. NONE of which I can control, no matter how hard I try. So, I need to find something I can control. Rachel is right. You have to dig down deep and relight the flame that went out however many years ago for whatever reason. She has reminded me that I’m too young to feel as though the world is closing in. I can’t wait to read “Girl, Wash Your Face!” and attend her conferences! I truly hope to meet her one day. I would love nothing more than to join a powerful team of women (and men) empowering other women (and men)!

Before I review the book itself I would like to address a few things in reviews that made me hesitant to read the book. The first is that this is NOT a self help book! It is a motivational/inspirational book. It is ment to inspire you to do better and be okay with the person you really are. You are not getting information from a psychologist to FIX your problems, but rather 20 different points (chapters) that can be helpful with where you are at in your life. Secondly Rachel Hollis is a Christian and brings up things from being raised as such. She brings up that her belief in God has helped her realize some things about herself and wants you to realize them too. She says that belief in God or a higher power might help you. However, she doesn't force or say that you have to believe what she believes. And though there are a couple of scriptures quoted I wouldnt say that this is a religious book. When you say that most people expect that it holds a lot of scripture and unbending beliefs of the particular persons religion. Its inspiring and accepting! Which may be recognized as religious traits but really should be how people are about themselves and others. This is why I believe this book has recieved criticism for having too much or too little religion. Dont let the fact that God is mentioned dissuade you from reading the book because you dont need to be hyper religious or atheist to be able to relate to the concept of loving your neighbor and other good human characteristics. Lastly this may not be so greatly written piece of literature but I dont think it would be as moving if it were. This is about being honest about the good the bad and the ugly of Rachel Hollis and our selves. She uses personal examples and writes as though she is a friend sitting right there with you. It's not ment to distance you from her but for her to come off as a friend that accepts you for who you are and confided some of her life struggles to you. Not all the chapters in this book may apply to you but there are bound to be a few where you can relate and appreciate her honestly about all of it. Whether you are the good the bad or the ugly of each chapter, you have the chance to learn from her and yourself. This book is HONEST! We are all in different walks of life but there are things that we can all have in common at some point. That is what this book is about. Things that we can have in common but may not talk about because of embarrassment, the constant shaming that people are doing, or the fact that it just might be considered inappropriate to discuss at the dinner table. We all have things about ourselves that we believe but should we believe all of them? Are we self aware enough that we can tell we need help or should make changes with something? Nowadays there is so much scrutiny about everything but that scrutiny doesn't help it actually can hurt us so take a minute read something honest, sometimes funny, sad and moving.

Sometimes as women we need that emotional cheerleader in our life that takes whatever we are going through to take us by the hand and give us that much needed talk to stop feeling sorry for whatever you're going through and get moving forward. Yet all too often we fall for the lies our own self is telling us. Lies that we aren't a good enough mom, while others around us seem to breeze through motherhood without a care in the world. Lies that all of our dreams will remain just that, dreams of a life we never got around to living. Lies that we are not good enough, when God cared enough to make us the fine women we are today. Don't you need someone to give you that honest talk to shake you out of your pity party of one and get moving on with your life with a better outlook for tomorrow. Enter Rachel Hollis, who I think resembles Anna Kendrick quite a bit and who always seems to have it together and never seems to have a bad day, a bad month or even a bad year. Yet as women that is how we constantly compare ourselves to others around us instead of comparing our yesterday person to our today person. Why do we do that? In her book, Girl, Wash Your Face, Rachel gets brutally honest, like your best friend would and holds nothing back to get you through the lies she faced and quite honestly like most of the lies all women believe. It is a cry along with her book as she faces adoption struggles, laugh with her when she shares the most incredible stories of her own life and gives you a transparent look at how she can appear to have it all together on the outside and is barely holding it all together on the inside. She is the one friend I think all of dream of having. She is the person who would come cry with you while your enduring one of life's most challenging struggles, like losing her brother to suicide and then helping you back on your feet to show you that you don't have to stay in that place, and you can use what you're going through to make you stronger. She is such a wonder to listen to and trust me, all of us women NEED this book. I found so many great take away's that I believe I'm going to have to buy another one so I can have a pristine copy, while this one is my reference source to run to when I need a quick pick me up. For me, this book is a much needed book for all women both young and old and why I feel it is beyond worthy of 5 out of 5 stars.

What I liked about this book is that it gave some valuable advice. It is well written and thought provoking. I liked how the author brought us into her private life and didn't hold anything back. I would recommend this book to my sister. It is nice to relate to the author.

There was so much hype for this book when it first released, yet I hesitated because I had no knowledge of this person known as Rachel Hollis. The cover and title looked promising, yet I waited. Then Amazon reduced the price and I thought here’s my chance to become part of the community who raves about this book, so I downloaded a copy. I’m not a religious person and every time I read a reference about faith and religion I wanted to cringe. I’ve a religious trigger that causes a deep rooted anger inside me at the mention of scriptures and beliefs. I believe religion is a weakness not a strength. yet Rachel Hollis is a firm believer in her faith. So, I worked around these references and found pieces of her work that I could identify with. Not everything in this book pertains to my life, yet it’s good reference material to pass along to others. Rachel has a strong religious faith of which I can say helped contribute to her ability to thrive during difficult times in her life. Yet I must say not having any religious faith doesn’t prevent an individual from achieving success. I looked forward to these words towards the end of each chapter...THINGS THAT HELPED ME... Giving advice to others is what compelled me to continue reading. I especially like to read about the ways others deal with difficult situations. Rachel shares a variety of experiences and was shocked by how many experiences she has had in her life. Rachel Hollis uses her experiences in life as a basis for giving advice to others. This book illustrates the struggles and triumphs in her life. There is something in here for every woman. Every woman can identify with one or more of Rachel’s struggles and triumphs. I don’t have to share the same beliefs as her to understand the hardships of life. We all share the same desire to find better ways for dealing and coping with these hardships. Rachel provides some sound advice.

"Stop thinking that if you only had the right job, the right man, the right house, the right car, the right whatever that your life will become what you've always dreamed of." I loved this book! The author has a lot of heart that she pours into every page of this quick but important book. She encourages and inspires her readers—everyone, really—to be the heroes of their own stories. There is so much uplifting, positive energy pouring from these pages that you put it down feeling ready to take life by the reigns and make impactful marks on your world, in every little thing you do. There is no deceit in these pages, she makes it clear that only you have the power to make the necessary changes in your life, and that it is hard work, certainly. It is also clear that these things are achievable and absolutely worth it. Life is messy. It's chaotic, and it's ugly and beautiful all at once, and it's so incredible and worth it. It is yours and it is ready for you. It's down to you and God, but then, it always has been, and at any given moment you have the option of saying you will make the most of the today, tomorrow, and every day after that He gives you to make the things you want to happen, actually happen. You are good enough and all it takes is one moment of insane courage to look the world in the face and decide to accomplish everything you dare to dream. No excuses, and no ifs, ands, or buts. But at the same time, your only limitations are the ones you place on yourself. Final thoughts, I just want everyone to pick this one up. Rachel Hollis is a shot of life, bringing easy humor, impassioned motivation and support, a sort of no-nonsense, "get up and go because life waits for no one, and you already have everything you need," tone at the heart of it, and at the root of it all, an unshakable faith in God that inspires. She makes this work in the way that only someone who genuinely wants to see people living their best lives could so expertly make it work, without ever seeming preachy or overbearing. She is a genuine and effortlessly shining voice that stands out in a sea of voices clamoring to get a word in the self-help genre, and I look forward to hearing more from her in the future.

Girl, Wash Your Face has changed my life, yes I realise how dramatic that sounds. But it's true! I'm 37 and feel like I've just learnt the skills I need to make my life the best it can possibly be, thanks to this book. I have an illness that leaves me stuck in bed, in pain, almost every day. I find audiobooks relax me and help me sleep. I came across Girl, Wash Your Face and thought well here goes, another self help book, trying to make me feel better about myself. How wrong could I be... I immediately felt Rachel's warm, kindhearted words were written for ME. It was if she had come over for a girly chat. Rachel has a way of making you feel like you've been friends forever. Although she is so sweet she equally won't take any excuses. And isn't that honestly what we all need, someone who is there with great advice but won't take any of your bs. No excuses about feeling lazy, you have to go out and chase your dreams. I believe that the true genius of this book is that the author wrote it because she truly wants to help other women. Rachel Hollis honestly cares about me and you. She wants us to live our lives to its full potential. And she is so passionate about empowering women. This passion cannot help but motivate you to make the changes in your life to be who you want to be. The book made me realise that although the path I'm on is not the one I originally wanted, I can still be happy! I have been just existing for a long time and now I'm starting to live life again. It's as if Rachel came into my house and pulled me out of bed. I feel as if she's one of my closest friends and said "come on, stop feeling sorry for yourself, get up and start being the best version of you that you can be!" I have been through a lot in life but it doesn't mean I should just give up. I can still have hopes and dreams, I just need to adjust them a little. And as Rachel says "no-one cares about your dreams as much as you do." I now have the paper back of Girl, Wash Your Face now too and I've read it 3 times, I feel like I learn something new every time. Rachel teaches you life skills to help you achieve whatever it is that you dream of. The book is not only informative but my god is it funny. Rachel is so witty and will have you laughing at her funny stories. I have recommended this book to my friends who have also fallen in love with it. I bought a copy yesterday for my cousins birthday and I can't wait to talk to her about it. It's one of those reads that you just want to share with everyone. It's the holy grail for all women, in all walks of life. Because the underlying message is the same for all of us, you deserve to be happy!!! So I'll say it again... Girl, Wash Your Face has changed my life. Rachel Hollis, I just want to say Thank You! ❤️ xxx

Thank you so much , this book is a game changer really I can’t wait for the book in French that way all my girlfriends here could read it

I was skeptical that this "perfect" looking and religious woman could have anything to say that would pertain to my life. I was so wrong, because EVERYTHING she says pertains to me. Rachel manages to be hilarious and heart-warming even when talking about horrible tragedies. I love knowing that someone who seems to have such a perfect life actually is just like everyone else out there, with her own struggles. I didn't find her religious view annoying at all (having very different religious views from her). I love how she shows how much she understands the things we struggle with, but doesn't stand for it, instead showing us strategies for getting past them and becoming the best person that we were meant to be. I couldn't put it down, and now that I've read through it once, I'm starting it over immediately. Can't recommend it enough!

I loved this book. So many times I felt like Rachel was talking directly to me, like it was written especially for me. So many great life lessons. A great read.

Between the writer and the character of this book, I plump for the writer. It is one one of most interesting books than I have ever read. The protagonist break the rules in the good site so that many women can manage with real life. Needless to say that we never settle for less than we deserve. Hence, this book showed me with love and good advice.