Life is inherently difficult, a rollercoaster of highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. But what if embracing that difficulty, that messy, imperfect reality, was the key to unlocking our truest, most resilient selves? Glennon Doyle, bestselling author of *Untamed*, invites us to explore this very question in her powerful and transformative book, *We Can Do Hard Things*. This isn’t just another self-help guide; it’s a raw, honest, and often humorous exploration of the human condition, urging us to shed societal expectations, embrace vulnerability, and find strength in connection. This article delves into the core concepts of *We Can Do Hard Things*, examining its impact, practical applications, and the way it’s resonating with readers seeking a more authentic and empowered life.
Glennon Doyle has become a voice for a generation grappling with the pressures of modern life. Through her candid writing and her willingness to share her own struggles, she has created a community of individuals who are tired of pretending and are ready to embrace their imperfections. *We Can Do Hard Things* builds upon the themes of self-discovery and liberation that she introduced in *Untamed*, offering a practical roadmap for navigating the challenges of relationships, motherhood, addiction, and self-doubt. It’s a book that reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that we possess the innate capacity to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
The central argument of this article is that *We Can Do Hard Things* provides a powerful framework for individuals to confront their fears, embrace vulnerability, and build resilience by challenging societal norms and fostering authentic connection. It’s a call to arms, a gentle yet firm nudge towards living a life that is true to ourselves, not to the expectations of others.
The Power of a Mantra: We Can Do Hard Things
At the heart of the book lies the simple yet profound mantra, “We Can Do Hard Things.” This phrase, originally whispered between Glennon and her sister, Amanda, during a particularly challenging period, has become a rallying cry for readers around the world. It’s more than just a catchy slogan; it’s a reminder of our inherent strength and our ability to persevere in the face of adversity.
The power of this mantra lies in its simplicity and its universality. It acknowledges the difficulty of life without succumbing to despair. It’s a whisper of hope in the darkness, a reminder that even when we feel overwhelmed, we are capable of more than we think. It encourages us to tap into our inner reserves of strength and to believe in our ability to overcome obstacles. In a world that often tells us we need to be perfect and have all the answers, “We Can Do Hard Things” offers a refreshing dose of self-compassion and encouragement. This idea is simple to remember and it can be used in all aspects of life to remind you that you are capable of doing whatever needs to be done.
Embracing the Brutiful Reality of Life
Glennon Doyle introduces the concept of “brutiful” to describe the reality of life as a blend of brutal and beautiful moments. She argues that it’s crucial to acknowledge both aspects in order to cultivate genuine happiness and resilience. Too often, we are encouraged to focus solely on the positive, to deny or suppress our negative emotions. However, Doyle asserts that this denial is ultimately harmful, leading to feelings of disconnection, shame, and anxiety.
By embracing the “brutiful,” we allow ourselves to experience the full spectrum of human emotion. We acknowledge that life is messy and imperfect, filled with both joy and sorrow, love and loss. This acceptance allows us to cultivate self-compassion and to navigate challenges with greater grace and resilience. It’s a recognition that pain is an inevitable part of life, but it doesn’t have to define us. In fact, it can be a catalyst for growth and transformation. *We Can Do Hard Things* encourages us to stop striving for a picture-perfect existence and to embrace the messy, beautiful reality of our lives.
The Courage of Emotional Honesty and Vulnerability
One of the central tenets of *We Can Do Hard Things* is the importance of emotional honesty and vulnerability. Glennon Doyle challenges us to break free from the societal conditioning that encourages us to suppress our true feelings and to present a polished, unblemished version of ourselves to the world. She argues that true connection and healing can only occur when we are willing to be honest about our struggles and to share our vulnerabilities with others.
This is not to say that we should overshare or burden others with our problems. Rather, it’s about creating safe spaces where we can be authentic and honest about our experiences without fear of judgment or rejection. It’s about recognizing that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength. It takes courage to show up as our true selves, flaws and all, but it is through this vulnerability that we connect with others on a deeper level and find true belonging. *We Can Do Hard Things* teaches us that vulnerability is the pathway to intimacy and connection.
Challenging Societal Expectations
*We Can Do Hard Things* is a powerful critique of societal expectations, particularly those placed on women. Glennon Doyle encourages readers to question the norms that dictate how we should live our lives, from our relationships and careers to our parenting styles and self-care practices. She challenges us to break free from the pressure to conform and to create our own definitions of success and happiness.
The book explores a range of topics, from the unrealistic expectations placed on mothers to the pressure to maintain a perfect image on social media. Doyle encourages us to examine the messages we’ve internalized from society and to challenge those that no longer serve us. She reminds us that we have the power to choose our own paths and to live lives that are aligned with our values and desires. *We Can Do Hard Things* invites us to question everything and to create a life that is authentically our own.
Breaking Free from Addictions and Patterns
*We Can Do Hard Things* also delves into the topic of addiction, not just to substances, but also to behaviors and beliefs. Glennon Doyle shares her own struggles with addiction and explores the underlying pain that often fuels these patterns. She emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing the root causes of our addictions in order to break free from their grip.
Addiction can manifest in many forms, from substance abuse to workaholism to people-pleasing. Doyle argues that these behaviors are often coping mechanisms for dealing with unresolved trauma or emotional pain. By understanding the underlying causes of our addictions, we can begin to heal the wounds that drive them and to develop healthier coping strategies. *We Can Do Hard Things* offers a compassionate and insightful perspective on addiction, encouraging us to seek help and to embrace the journey of recovery.
The Resonance: Impact and Reception of a Powerful Message
*We Can Do Hard Things* has resonated deeply with readers from all walks of life. The book has received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising its honesty, vulnerability, and empowering message. Readers have shared countless stories of how the book has helped them to navigate challenges, embrace their imperfections, and build more authentic and fulfilling lives.
The success of *We Can Do Hard Things* is a testament to the power of connection and the importance of sharing our stories. The book has created a community of individuals who are committed to supporting one another and to living lives that are true to themselves. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that we can find strength in connection with others. The *We Can Do Hard Things* message is a simple one but it is very important in today’s society.
Practical Applications: From Page to Practice
While *We Can Do Hard Things* offers profound insights and philosophical reflections, it also provides practical tools and strategies for readers to implement in their daily lives. Here are a few ways to apply the book’s teachings:
Strategies for Embracing Vulnerability
Start small. Share something vulnerable with someone you trust. Practice journaling to explore your feelings without judgment. Seek therapy or counseling to work through deeper emotional issues. Remember that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Techniques for Building Resilience
Practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend. Set boundaries. Learn to say no to things that drain your energy or compromise your values. Prioritize self-care. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
Exercises for Challenging Limiting Beliefs
Identify your negative thought patterns. Write down the thoughts that hold you back. Challenge the validity of these thoughts. Replace them with more positive and empowering beliefs.
Encouraging Authentic Connection
Practice active listening. Pay attention to what others are saying without interrupting or judging. Show empathy. Try to understand things from other peoples points of view. Be open and honest in your communication. Share your thoughts and feelings authentically.
A Final Word: Stepping into Your Power
*We Can Do Hard Things* is more than just a book; it’s a manifesto for a more authentic, courageous, and connected life. Glennon Doyle challenges us to embrace our imperfections, to question societal expectations, and to find strength in vulnerability. It’s a reminder that we are capable of more than we think and that we have the power to create lives that are aligned with our values and desires. So, the next time you’re facing a challenge, remember the mantra: We Can Do Hard Things. It’s time to embrace our own “brutiful” reality and step into our power.
