As far back as I can remember as a teenager, I was always drawn to these types of "self-help" books. Living in a dysfunctional household growing up, I sought motivational books about how to achieve what you wanted in life, dealing with toxic environments or going after your goals without being influenced by the world. Growing up and going through college, and now trying to be an Adult in my late twenties, hurdles have made me doubtful, drained, and questioning myself. A Lot. Many pieces of advice have stuck over the years, though in the face of more unexpected challenges some of them have fallen to the wayside.

In picking up You Are A Bad-Ass, I liked it immediately. It reminded me of the books I sought out as a teen and used to believe with all of my heart.

Self-help books get a bad wrap but I always thought: Who doesn't want help or better maximize how to help themselves? especially if you're someone who just can't clean up a lot of bad vibes, people, and stuff in their lives.

This book was an immediate comfort. Jen brings about self-help in a very conversational, approachable way. She's all about reconciling your differences with the past, owning up to believing in yourself, and making actual commitment to what you want to get done. She gives pointers and advice about how to be less self-conscious, and just more conscious of what you can achieve. Nothing is impossible in her mind, and you come away feeling the same. Her main teaching point is a little spiritual. Being a mix of religious and spiritual, I didn't mind her narrative style or point of view. If you're looking for a little direction or ideas about just how to better manage and elevate your life, or go after your goals without any doubts, this is a good starting place. The rest, at some point, is all up to you. :)