How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t

14 Habits That Are Holding You Back from Happiness

by Andrea Owen

4.5(1,549 ratings)

11 min read

Brief overview

This book explores why certain habits make us feel overwhelmed and stuck in patterns of self-doubt and frustration. It highlights how we can recognize these hidden behaviors, confront our fears, and replace them with healthier perspectives to create lasting change.

A Fresh Start

No matter how confident or driven we appear on the outside, many of us battle inner struggles that leave us feeling stuck. It often begins with a swirl of negative chatter telling us we’re not good enough or not doing enough. This inner critic can be harsh, and it draws us into patterns of shame or endless self-improvement.

Yet, real growth starts once we notice these patterns instead of fighting or ignoring them. When we invite clarity into our lives, it can be both unsettling and liberating. The unsettling part is facing our deep-rooted fears. The liberating aspect emerges once we understand that awareness opens the door to compassion and fresh choices.

Imagine acknowledging a nagging voice that says you’re the only one who can’t keep it together. Recognizing this thought is the first step to seeing how untrue it really is. The truth is, many people grapple with doubt, comparing themselves to unrealistic standards. A new beginning emerges when you’re willing to see these hidden struggles without judgment.

Seeing The Traps We Fall Into

The feeling of constant comparison can be a major trap. Scrolling through perfect snapshots of other people’s lives leads to the belief that we’re somehow behind. We fixate on what others have achieved and conclude that our own progress is unremarkable.

Another trap is self-sabotage. Sometimes, we intentionally stay in our comfort zones, even if they’re filled with stress and insecurity. We fear the unknown outcome of changing old habits. Ironically, it’s safer to cling to a familiar misery than to risk the vulnerability of growth. This keeps us cycling through similar problems without resolution.

Similarly, perfectionism can strangle our happiness. We tie our worth to flawless performances, whether at work or among friends. Mistakes feel catastrophic, and we miss out on chances to learn or connect authentically. Each of these traps suggests there’s something deeper blocking our way.

Notice the toxic stories you tell yourself. They often arise from untrue comparisons and old fears.

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What is How to Stop Feeling Like Sht* about?

"How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t: 14 Habits That Are Holding You Back from Happiness" by Andrea Owen delves into the subconscious habits that hinder our journey toward genuine happiness. This empowering book explores behavioral patterns like self-doubt, comparison, perfectionism, and avoidance that sabotage our mental well-being. Owen provides a roadmap to self-awareness, helping readers recognize these negative tendencies and gradually transform them into enriching practices.

The narrative goes beyond merely highlighting the issues—it offers actionable solutions to cultivate self-compassion, set healthy boundaries, and embrace vulnerability as a strength. A pivotal read for those feeling stuck, this book unlocks the potential for deep, lasting change, empowering readers to rewrite their stories with authenticity and courage.

Andrea Owen's work is transformative because it confronts the unspoken struggles many face, providing a compassionate guide to shifting harmful habits and fostering personal growth. Faced with an uplifting path to self-love and resilience, readers are urged to let go of the constraints of self-imposed perfection, embracing the full spectrum of their emotions for a happier, more fulfilling life.

Review of How to Stop Feeling Like Sht*

Andrea Owen's "How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t" shines by unapologetically pinpointing numerous flawed behaviors we unknowingly embrace. The book's structure wisely combines keen psychological insights with tactical exercises, making it not just informative, but deeply actionable. Owen's distinct voice resonates with sincerity, blending professional insight and personal anecdotes to illustrate the universality of inner battles.

Strengthening the narrative are compelling chapters that offer clarity and compassion in guiding the reader through identifying detrimental thought patterns and pursuits of external validation. Owen's practical tools, such as journaling prompts and self-reflection exercises, create an interactive experience that extends beyond reading. The book's user-friendly approach caters to various audiences, with relatable metaphors making psychological concepts more digestible and engaging.

Moreover, Owen's non-judgmental tone and relatable writing style demystify the intricacies of human emotion, offering valuable guidance on setting genuine boundaries, practicing self-kindness, and embracing vulnerability—each essential steps towards emotional freedom. This thought-provoking book stands as a must-read for anyone facing challenges with self-doubt, anxiety, or navigating life's turbulent waters. Ultimately, if you are yearning to reclaim control over your mental well-being and chart a path to happiness, "How to Stop Feeling Like Sh*t" offers a transformative blueprint.

Who should read How to Stop Feeling Like Sht*?

Career-driven professionals battling burnout who will learn how to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Young adults stepping into independence will benefit from understanding how to combat societal pressures and build self-awareness.
Individuals prone to self-doubt and anxiety will gain skills in managing these emotions through cognitive reframing.
New parents or caregivers juggling responsibilities who will acquire tools for setting boundaries and self-care.
Anyone on a journey of personal growth aiming to replace unhealthy behaviors with life-affirming habits.

About the author

Andrea Owen is an author, global keynote speaker, and professional certified life coach who helps high-achieving women maximize unshakeable confidence and master resilience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University and is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) from The Coaches Training Institute and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation. With over a decade of experience, she has taught hundreds of thousands of women through her books, coaching, and podcast, which has close to 3 million downloads. She is also the author of "52 Ways to Live a Kick-Ass Life" and "Make Some Noise."