The moment I received my copy of I’m Judging You the Do-Better Manual by Luvvie Ajayi I knew I was in for some real talk and gut wrenching belly laughs. I jumped right in and started reading it while I was at the pool with mini me. Even though I knew I was guaranteed a good laugh, I wasn’t prepared for the frequent outbursts of laughter in public places. I have a habit reading while I wait… I read poolside in a lounge chair, on the carpool line, doctor’s office waiting area and in my office while waiting for a meeting to start. I’ll read at any moment I have some down time while I’m just… WAITING!
I’m Judging You the Do-Better Manual is broken into four parts; Life, Culture, Social Media and Fame. If I had to pick a favorite part, I would say Life and Social Media were my two favorite parts. I won’t give much away but, I think we can all relate to some of the scenarios when she talks about life. I had to stop and re-evaluate my situation after reading it from who my “REAL†friends are to looking at the different types of people I associate myself with and which category they fell into. I also had to see where I fit in the equation and judge myself on the type of person I am. It’s crucial, self-reflection is a beast!
Please empty your bladder of all liquid contents when you read “When Baehood Goes Badâ€. I couldn’t contain my laughter as hard as I tried when I read that chapter. Then I had to pause and think about my life and ask myself if I fall into any of these characteristics. Like… Am I that one friend?!?! If nothing else Luvvie brings up uncomfortable situations and topics in a humorous way and we all get the message. I admire her passion for social justice and bringing these issues to light. She’s transparent in sharing her story and experiences. I’m not Nigerian but, I know I have a punctuality problem. Lol! Hands Down! I’m notoriously late for everything to the point I try not to schedule exact times. I’ll give a window time period. I’m horrible!
There were so many relatable topics that I associated myself with like the mispronunciation of my name. My mom chose my name out of an African Naming book. It’s from Zimbabwe, is Swahili and means “Give Thanks†I’ve shortened it in my adulthood because I got pissed off when people would butcher it. So, I go by Jen and people 99 times out of 100 think its short for Jennifer. I’ve said repeatedly, my name isn’t Jennifer but I still get called Jennifer and get emails addressed to me the same way. Fun Fact: The last three letters in Luvvie’s Last name are the last three letters in my first name. I know the mispronunciation struggle all too well! Oh… I’m also a resident grudge holder! I think Luvvie and I are kindred spirits. I’m definitely a work in progress, it takes time!
Overall, I’m Judging You the Do-Better Manual brings up relevant topics on race, religion, sexuality, politics and culture. I don’t usually engage in controversial topics in-person or online because I don’t feel like having to justify why I feel the way I do. I also can respect the fact that all people are entitled to their own opinions. I can also agree to disagree and walk away. There are not many people that will do that. They want to argue you to their way of thinking and I don’t have time for that! This book is an eye opener and allows you to have conversations that matter. If you don’t have this book, you need to go out and get it ASAP! I’m going to throw major shade and give you the side eye if you don’t. I’m Judging you!
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I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
