Do you ever get down on yourself because of your weaknesses? In this episode, find out more about Satan's tool of shame, what blessings can come from your imperfections, and how you can embrace your authentic self.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/the-gifts-of-imperfection to read this episode's transcript.

OUTLINE

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown is a self-help book published in 2010

• Also worth checking out are Daring Greatly and I Thought it Was Just Me, as well as her TED Talks online.

Shame vs. Guilt

• Guilt says "you made a mistake"—shame tells you that you are a mistake. Not that you did something bad, but that you are bad.

Worldly Sorrow vs. Godly Sorrow

• "Godly sorrow inspires change and hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Worldly sorrow pulls us down, extinguishes hope, and persuades us to give in to further temptation. True repentance is about transformation, not torture or torment. When guilt leads to self-loathing or prevents us from rising up again, it is impeding rather than promoting our repentance." (Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf)

"Actually Doing Okay"

• I share a story about a horrible day of parenting and how I managed to conquer shame by practicing self-compassion and seeing myself as a whole

The Blessings of Weakness

• Because we're imperfect, we get to practice courage, compassion, and connection.
• Weakness also makes us humble, which can lead us to God, who can make us stronger than we ever could be on our own

Taking the Plunge into Authenticity

• "Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It's about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen."

Learning to Embrace My Voice

• I've had a long journey of learning to accept my voice because it's so low—first as a musician and now as a podcaster.

Takeaways

• 1. Make a list of the unhealthy things you tend to do when you feel shame. Then make a list of healthier ways you could handle those difficult moments.
• 2. Ask for help. Think about something you need, something you might be afraid to admit because it'll show your weakness. Tell a trusted friend or family member how you're feeling and how they could help.

Important Caveat

• Some ideas in the book can be interpreted in a way contrary to the gospel
• Read Brené Brown's books (and all books) with the Spirit so that He can help you discern truth from error

Episode next week: C - The Holy Ghost Can *Comfort* You

Episode in two weeks: Is There No Other Way? by Emily Adams