Book Review: Year of Yes

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I'm a big fan of Shonda Rhimes TV show, How To Get Away With Murder (HTGAWM). Because well, Viola Davis.  I haven't ever watched an episode of Grey's Anatomy and maybe only a handful of Scandal episode but HTGAWM is my show! Again, because Viola Davis. And because the writing is crazy, amazing, original and keeps me guessing whodunnit?

I had seen a ton of posts about Shonda Rhimes' book, Year of Yes and so, like I often do when I see a book recommendation, I googled it. I was immediately intrigued. . . .then I started to put two and two together. She created my favorite show. She writes on my favorite show. This means her book has to have some redeeming qualities, right?

So I purchased it and once I started reading. . .it exceeded my expectations! I totally related to her stories of escaping through fictional characters and writing at an early age. I could even relate to the social anxiety she experienced. People probably would never guess it but I get extremely nervous before attending even a kids birthday party. Maybe I'll expound in a future post....but back to the book.

It was great! Full of funny anecdotes and inspiration. Shonda's candor/transparency was refreshing and did I mention she was funny?

The basic premise of the book is that instead of saying no to every invitation or request (which was often her reply) she started saying, "Yes." No matter how much it terrified her. It led her to some eye opening revelations about herself and as a result she became wiser, happier and healthier.

My biggest take away from the book was not so much the aspect of being fearless but instead the importance of saying, "YES!" to ourselves. Yes to being our best, yes to living life to the fullest, yes to new experiences, yes to growth and yes to love- self love!

My focus for 2016 (and beyond) is to say yes to taking better care of my mind, body and soul. What are you saying yes to in 2016?