Friday, June 20, 2025

Expanded Meaning:

This quote is a bold invitation to embrace your full, imperfect self. Glennon Doyle, a bestselling author known for her raw vulnerability and fierce advocacy for truth-telling, reminds us that real courage is not about having it all together—it’s about showing up anyway.

We often wait until we feel “ready,” “confident,” or “perfect” before we step forward. But this mindset delays our growth, keeps us small, and reinforces the myth that only the polished and unafraid deserve to participate. Doyle turns this narrative on its head. She insists that you don’t have to wait to be unafraid or tidy up your life before you engage with it. In fact, your fear, messiness, and complexity are not liabilities—they are proof of your humanity.

The quote encourages:

• Authenticity over perfection
  

• Action over paralysis
  

• Presence over performance

It’s a call to show up for your life, relationships, dreams, and challenges—not once you’ve figured everything out, but while you’re still in the thick of figuring it out.

Context and Origin:

Glennon Doyle is a prominent voice in the self-help and empowerment space, especially for women. She rose to fame with her memoir “Love Warrior”, and her 2020 book “Untamed” became a cultural phenomenon. The quote comes from her writing and public talks, where she often explores themes of vulnerability, self-acceptance, and the power of living truthfully.

This specific quote echoes the essence of “Untamed”, which encourages readers—especially women—to break free from societal conditioning and embrace the messiness of life instead of hiding it. Doyle’s own journey includes navigating addiction, divorce, motherhood, and redefining love—all while being open about her fears and complexities.

Key Takeaway for Readers:

You don’t need to be fearless or flawless to take up space in this world. You are allowed to be a work in progress and still be worthy of showing up. Your messiness is not something to hide—it’s something to own. The act of showing up, especially when you’re scared, is what makes you brave.

Reflection Prompt:

• Where in your life are you waiting to “have it all together” before taking action?
  

• What would it look like to show up messy, complicated, and afraid—and still move forward anyway?
  

📚Recommended Resources

1. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
   A powerful memoir that explores themes of self-liberation, truth, and embracing your inner voice—where this quote’s message is most deeply rooted.

2. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
   A guide to living authentically by letting go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embracing who you truly are.

3. Glennon Doyle’s Podcast: We Can Do Hard Things
   Honest conversations about life's challenges, vulnerability, and showing up with courage—even when it's messy.

4. TED Talk: “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown
   A widely-viewed talk that explores how vulnerability is the birthplace of courage, connection, and creativity.

5. Instagram: @glennondoyle
   Follow for daily doses of raw truth, encouragement, and community-focused inspiration from Glennon herself.