Book Review: Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Okay, so if you're like me and you've been hearing all the buzz about Glennon Doyle's "Untamed," but haven't quite dived in, or maybe you just want a quick refresher, let me share what truly makes this book a phenomenon (it has sold over a million copies, after all!). From my perspective, as someone constantly navigating life's expectations and seeking my own truth, this book isn't just a read; it's an experience. It’s a powerful call to reclaim your authentic self, especially for women who feel like they’ve been living in a cage built by societal rules. At its heart, "Untamed" is about dismantling the cage we've been taught to live in since childhood. Glennon introduces this powerful metaphor: we're wild animals, born free and intuitive, but society gradually tames us, teaching us to please, to conform, to ignore our deepest instincts to fit in. This really hit home for me. How many times have I stifled a thought or an urge just to keep the peace or avoid judgment? Doyle argues that true liberation comes from identifying these "cages" – whether they're in our marriages, careers, or even our own minds – and bravely breaking free. Another foundational idea is the importance of "feeling it all." We're often conditioned to numb uncomfortable emotions – sadness, anger, fear. Glennon encourages us to lean into these feelings, to truly feel them, because they are messengers. They tell us what needs to change, what our boundaries are, and what we truly desire. This was a massive shift for me. Instead of pushing away discomfort, I've started asking, "What is this feeling trying to tell me?" It’s an uncomfortable but incredibly empowering practice that moves us towards healing. Then there's "the knowing." This is the quiet, intuitive voice inside you that always knows the truth, even when your mind is full of doubts or external opinions. Glennon shares her own journey of learning to trust this "knowing," even when it led her down unconventional paths, like falling in love with Abby Wambach and rebuilding her family. For me, this concept was revolutionary. It gave me permission to listen to that gut feeling, that whisper that says, "This isn't right," or "You deserve more," even when everyone else is telling me to be practical or reasonable. It’s about recognizing that your inner wisdom is your most reliable compass. Finally, "Untamed" delves into how this process of self-liberation impacts our relationships and our role in the world. It’s about raising children who are true to themselves, not miniature versions of what society expects. It’s about building relationships based on honesty and mutual respect, not obligation or performance. This book review, in a deeper sense, is about finding the courage to model a truly authentic life. It's a reminder that when we untame ourselves, we don't just benefit; we pave the way for others, showing them what's possible. If you're ready to stop people-pleasing and start living fiercely, this summary only scratches the surface of the profound wisdom Glennon Doyle offers. What part of your wild self are you ready to reclaim?