Let’s face it: We are human. We make mistakes. We have flaws. We have prejudices, too. It’s our job as humans to do our best to learn from our mistakes, embrace our flaws, and correct our prejudices, which is why I am always looking for a good self-help book. And boy, did I find one in I’m Judging You by Luvvie Ajayi.
The book is divided into four sections: Life, Culture, Social Media, and Fame. Within each section, Luvvie addresses how we can do better as a people – from washing bras to the plague of rape culture. Some of her essays are light-hearted while others tackle harder topics, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and fake news.
I’m Judging You is downright hilarious. It’s rare for me to cackle my way through an entire book, but that’s exactly what I did. I also loved how Luvvie integrated details about her native Nigeria and her culture and growing up black in America. Coupled with these heavier topics are Luvvie’s sharp wit, down-to-earth style, and fantastic truth bombs. She shines the most in the “Culture” section, and her chapters about racism are must re-reads.
You’ll learn a lot from I’m Judging You, and I look forward to reading Luvvie’s new book when it’s released (honestly, it can’t get here soon enough!).
My big takeaways:
#1: Write like you speak
“Write like you speak” is actually a quote by Seth Godin, and Luvvie is a master at implementing it. I love Luvvie’s approachable, funny writing style. And it’s just like she speaks. I tend to write more stiffly and formerly, instead of embracing my speech style, which is funny and uplifting. As I work on my book, I will remember how Luvvie was authentic in her writing style and will do my best write like I speak, too.
#2: White women must do better
This book was published in 2016, and it’s a shame that many of the racist issues discussed in Luvvie’s book are still a problem. And they are still a problem because white people can’t get their acts together (we are the only ones who can fix racism). As a white woman, I am constantly working on being a better ally. For sure, I’m a work in progress, but it’s essential that I not stop. I must do better.
#3: Do something that matters
This is the title of Luvvie’s last chapter, and it’s a chapter I wish I had written. Luvvie writes: “I am a big believer in the notion that we’ve each got to look outside ourselves and figure out what we’re going to do to make this world a little less terrible.” (page 231)
This is my belief too, and it’s something I feel especially strong for female entrepreneurs with a platform. Even if it’s a small platform, you can make an impact. Think about what causes are important to you and advocate for them. It doesn’t need to be slick or perfect – just do your best. For Heaven’s sake, don’t be silent. The world needs your Meaningful Noise, now more than ever.
How I’m Judging You relates to entrepreneurs:
The last two sections, Social Media and Fame, are important reads for entrepreneurs. Social media is a common way of marketing your business, and the lessons Luvvie teaches us in these chapters are excellent reminders about staying authentic in your social media marketing. The Fame section reminds us that our impact is much more everlasting than a viral video. Don’t be too quick to wish for fame; instead, ask yourself: How can I make a difference?
Grab a copy of I’m Judging You here (this is an affiliate link).
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