What do you think?
Rate this book
Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become the Bravest You
Awkwardness isn’t a weakness to fix - it’s your greatest asset for professional and personal growth. In a time of blurred realities and filtered faces, embracing your awkwardness may seem counterintuitive. As 2x TEDx Speaker and Executive Coach Henna Pryor shows, relishing your “Good Awkward” is essential to becoming more bold, boosting your confidence, and taking the necessary professional risks at work that help you be braver and meet your true potential. In this book, Pryor taps her signature playful and lighthearted writing style to share stories, science-based tools, and simple action steps to guide you If your biggest goals have felt elusive or you’re eager to find a fresh edge in the crowded marketplace, Good Awkward can teach you how to create a new outlook on moments that once caused embarrassment or cringe and use them as a force for good, so you can become the bravest you. “A well-researched and well-designed call to embrace awkwardness.” — Kirkus Review (starred review)
- GenresNonfictionSelf Help
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2023
30 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 17, 2023
I know we've all been there. We have had that moment that we look back on and cringe with embarrassment. Good Awkward helps us take those moments, and lean into them, helping us embrace our whole selves, awkward and all.
To me, this was a book about acceptance, and we could all use a little more of that!
To me, this was a book about acceptance, and we could all use a little more of that!
September 28, 2023
Good Awkward, divided into eight chapters, will explain how being awkward is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, you'll discover in this book how it might be beneficial for us to alter our perspectives in order to enhance interaction. An extra star goes to the authors for including so many graphics, highlighted quotations, and images to make this book easier to comprehend. By simply stating, "I don't quite know what I'm doing here, but I'm learning as I go," we can avoid a great deal of stressful situations.
//Awkwardness isn’t a weakness to fix. It’s your greatest asset for professional and personal growth.//
//Unexpected mistakes can produce unexpected treasures.//
Some major and very relatable things that I learnt were:
•Due to the fear of awkward situations, we shouldn't hold back, especially when it comes to taking credit when we deserve it. If we tried harder, we could set aside our thoughts and take some kind of action in favor of proceeding forward in our own growth.
• It won't be difficult if we can try to overthink less about society's definition of coolness and just go for it.
• Because sharing embarrassing experiences with others develops relationships, you can always tell your friends about your embarrassing experiences.
//Awkwardness isn’t a weakness to fix. It’s your greatest asset for professional and personal growth.//
//Unexpected mistakes can produce unexpected treasures.//
Some major and very relatable things that I learnt were:
•Due to the fear of awkward situations, we shouldn't hold back, especially when it comes to taking credit when we deserve it. If we tried harder, we could set aside our thoughts and take some kind of action in favor of proceeding forward in our own growth.
• It won't be difficult if we can try to overthink less about society's definition of coolness and just go for it.
• Because sharing embarrassing experiences with others develops relationships, you can always tell your friends about your embarrassing experiences.
September 30, 2023
"Good Awkward" by Henna Pryor is a refreshing and empowering book that challenges the conventional notion that awkwardness is a weakness to be fixed. Pryor, a 2x TEDx Speaker and Executive Coach, makes a compelling case for embracing your "Good Awkward" as a valuable asset for both professional and personal growth.
In a world where authenticity often takes a back seat to curated online personas, Pryor's message is timely and impactful. She guides readers on a journey to discover the root causes of their reluctance to take risks and provides practical tools to overcome these barriers.
One of the standout concepts in the book is the idea of deliberate discomfort and strategic micro stressors. Pryor explains how these techniques can help strengthen mental resilience, ultimately enabling individuals to become bolder and more confident in their professional endeavors.
What sets "Good Awkward" apart is Pryor's playful and lighthearted writing style. She uses relatable stories and science-based insights to engage readers, making the process of self-discovery and personal growth enjoyable and accessible.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of the book is Pryor's guidance on creating a personalized plan to be braver in crucial moments. Whether you're pursuing ambitious goals or looking to stand out in a competitive landscape, this book offers practical strategies to harness your awkwardness as a catalyst for becoming your bravest self.
In summary, "Good Awkward" is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their true potential. Henna Pryor's unique perspective on embracing awkwardness as a strength is not only empowering but also offers a fresh outlook on navigating life's challenges. This book has the power to inspire positive change and encourage readers to harness their "Good Awkward" to achieve greater success and fulfillment.
In a world where authenticity often takes a back seat to curated online personas, Pryor's message is timely and impactful. She guides readers on a journey to discover the root causes of their reluctance to take risks and provides practical tools to overcome these barriers.
One of the standout concepts in the book is the idea of deliberate discomfort and strategic micro stressors. Pryor explains how these techniques can help strengthen mental resilience, ultimately enabling individuals to become bolder and more confident in their professional endeavors.
What sets "Good Awkward" apart is Pryor's playful and lighthearted writing style. She uses relatable stories and science-based insights to engage readers, making the process of self-discovery and personal growth enjoyable and accessible.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of the book is Pryor's guidance on creating a personalized plan to be braver in crucial moments. Whether you're pursuing ambitious goals or looking to stand out in a competitive landscape, this book offers practical strategies to harness your awkwardness as a catalyst for becoming your bravest self.
In summary, "Good Awkward" is a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their true potential. Henna Pryor's unique perspective on embracing awkwardness as a strength is not only empowering but also offers a fresh outlook on navigating life's challenges. This book has the power to inspire positive change and encourage readers to harness their "Good Awkward" to achieve greater success and fulfillment.
September 27, 2023
I am awkward as HELL, and luckily for me, Henna Pryor, wrote a book on this!
When I was 16, I pitched the New York Times. Guess how many times I've pitched the NYT as a 26-year-old? Zilch, zero, I haven't done it.
Until I read Henna's book, I didn't have the words to describe an action that is so HARD and awkward for me now, was something I had zero second thoughts about when I was younger.
"When we’re early in our career, being open to making big early gains feels easy," Henna writes. "Then we keep going for a while and it starts to feel a bit more challenging. Suddenly, when we’re trying to take a risk at work, the stakes feel a little higher, often with KPIs or success metrics or business outcomes or our title on the line."
This is when we run the risk of staying stuck in an approval mindset, which Henna describes as "playing not to lose" instead of "playing to win".
To describe Henna's book as good is an understatement.
It is fluid. It is dang readable (I literally devoured over 100 pages in a 2-hour plane ride). It's funny as hell (like proper LAUGH OUT LOUD. I got some funny looks on the plane!) But most importantly, it normalizes the MOST human emotion in the world — awkwardness.
And, ONE of my favorite quotes from the book:
"The idea of releasing this book into the world without knowing how you’ll receive it makes me cringe. But it makes me cringe even more to imagine walking through life as a person who doesn’t write and release the book that matters so much to her because she’s worried how it’ll land.
Either one is a risk. But one is the risk of losing approval. The other is the risk of losing my identity—who I am or who I want to be."
When I was 16, I pitched the New York Times. Guess how many times I've pitched the NYT as a 26-year-old? Zilch, zero, I haven't done it.
Until I read Henna's book, I didn't have the words to describe an action that is so HARD and awkward for me now, was something I had zero second thoughts about when I was younger.
"When we’re early in our career, being open to making big early gains feels easy," Henna writes. "Then we keep going for a while and it starts to feel a bit more challenging. Suddenly, when we’re trying to take a risk at work, the stakes feel a little higher, often with KPIs or success metrics or business outcomes or our title on the line."
This is when we run the risk of staying stuck in an approval mindset, which Henna describes as "playing not to lose" instead of "playing to win".
To describe Henna's book as good is an understatement.
It is fluid. It is dang readable (I literally devoured over 100 pages in a 2-hour plane ride). It's funny as hell (like proper LAUGH OUT LOUD. I got some funny looks on the plane!) But most importantly, it normalizes the MOST human emotion in the world — awkwardness.
And, ONE of my favorite quotes from the book:
"The idea of releasing this book into the world without knowing how you’ll receive it makes me cringe. But it makes me cringe even more to imagine walking through life as a person who doesn’t write and release the book that matters so much to her because she’s worried how it’ll land.
Either one is a risk. But one is the risk of losing approval. The other is the risk of losing my identity—who I am or who I want to be."
September 27, 2023
Exploring human awkwardness… 😬
🔑 Awkwardness is a natural response to uncertainty, and Henna Pryor insists we should appreciate it. With fluid chapters filled with insights and numbered points, she provides strategies to overcome mental blocks. Her approach is reassuring, reminding readers that she has her own history with awkwardness.
"Good Awkward" stands as a meticulously researched and expertly designed call to arms, urging its audience to embrace the very awkwardness they might have long sought to evade. Pryor systematically dismantles the mental blocks individuals erect around awkward moments, arming her readers with a myriad of strategies to navigate them successfully.
👉 One of Pryor's most compelling arguments revolves around the "illusion of transparency," which underscores that people cannot perceive our insecurities as acutely as we might imagine. Her assertion that "Most people don't give a rat's arse about how you look or what you're doing" is liberating, reminding readers that they need not fear the harsh judgment of others.
In an age where social media magnifies and immortalizes every awkward misstep, Pryor astutely observes that "bravery requires being off balance." She maintains that authentic growth often stems from embracing the discomfort of venturing into the unknown. Her warm, intelligent prose offers solace to readers navigating the relentless scrutiny of the digital world.
🌟 This book is perfect for anyone looking to boost confidence, take risks, and navigate the modern world of social interactions. It's a must-read for those seeking personal and professional growth.
🔑 Awkwardness is a natural response to uncertainty, and Henna Pryor insists we should appreciate it. With fluid chapters filled with insights and numbered points, she provides strategies to overcome mental blocks. Her approach is reassuring, reminding readers that she has her own history with awkwardness.
"Good Awkward" stands as a meticulously researched and expertly designed call to arms, urging its audience to embrace the very awkwardness they might have long sought to evade. Pryor systematically dismantles the mental blocks individuals erect around awkward moments, arming her readers with a myriad of strategies to navigate them successfully.
👉 One of Pryor's most compelling arguments revolves around the "illusion of transparency," which underscores that people cannot perceive our insecurities as acutely as we might imagine. Her assertion that "Most people don't give a rat's arse about how you look or what you're doing" is liberating, reminding readers that they need not fear the harsh judgment of others.
In an age where social media magnifies and immortalizes every awkward misstep, Pryor astutely observes that "bravery requires being off balance." She maintains that authentic growth often stems from embracing the discomfort of venturing into the unknown. Her warm, intelligent prose offers solace to readers navigating the relentless scrutiny of the digital world.
🌟 This book is perfect for anyone looking to boost confidence, take risks, and navigate the modern world of social interactions. It's a must-read for those seeking personal and professional growth.
September 26, 2023
"Ancient cultures were known for embracing and respecting life’s inherent awkwardness and irregularities.”
—
In "Good Awkward" Henna Pryor delivers an engaging and empowering perspective on personal growth. Through a blend of humor and insightful anecdotes, this book encourages readers to view their most awkward moments as opportunities for self-discovery and courage.
Pryor’s witty storytelling and relatable examples create an inviting atmosphere, making it easy for readers to connect with the message. By shedding light on their own embarrassing experiences, the Pryor dismantles the stigma around vulnerability, showing that embracing the awkward is a path to authenticity and bravery.
Readers are guided through practical exercises and mindset shifts that help them navigate uncomfortable situations with grace and resilience. This book doesn't just advocate for embracing awkwardness; it offers a roadmap for personal transformation. It reminds us that growth often emerges from the cringe-worthy moments we'd rather forget.
"Good Awkward" is a refreshing and entertaining read that ultimately inspires us to become the bravest, most authentic versions of ourselves. It's a reminder that our imperfections are what make us beautifully human, and that by celebrating the cringe, we can unlock our true potential.
—
In "Good Awkward" Henna Pryor delivers an engaging and empowering perspective on personal growth. Through a blend of humor and insightful anecdotes, this book encourages readers to view their most awkward moments as opportunities for self-discovery and courage.
Pryor’s witty storytelling and relatable examples create an inviting atmosphere, making it easy for readers to connect with the message. By shedding light on their own embarrassing experiences, the Pryor dismantles the stigma around vulnerability, showing that embracing the awkward is a path to authenticity and bravery.
Readers are guided through practical exercises and mindset shifts that help them navigate uncomfortable situations with grace and resilience. This book doesn't just advocate for embracing awkwardness; it offers a roadmap for personal transformation. It reminds us that growth often emerges from the cringe-worthy moments we'd rather forget.
"Good Awkward" is a refreshing and entertaining read that ultimately inspires us to become the bravest, most authentic versions of ourselves. It's a reminder that our imperfections are what make us beautifully human, and that by celebrating the cringe, we can unlock our true potential.
December 16, 2025
I am confused after reading this. Is the advantage of leaning into your awkwardness about not changing who you are or about being ok with trying something new until you get better at it? Awkwardness goes away in the latter but stays in the former. Is it about not conforming to social norms or doing something new outside of your comfort zone? The section of introversion vs. extroversion did not go deep enough. That sums it up for me; there was an opportunity to treat this subject as something more than being the center of attention while not apologizing for being goofy. It's endearing when you are a mega-talented actress like Jennifer Lawrence, but how that helps a typical awkward person who has yet to achieve stardom or recognition for their talents did not fully resonate with me.
January 30, 2024
While welcoming "Good Awkward," you'll discover that feeling awkward, both personally and professionally is a shared experience. Surprisingly, a dash of well-placed self-deprecation and embracing your unique awkwardness can enhance how others perceive you, projecting confidence and competence. Furthermore, humor, especially of the awkward variety, yields numerous advantages when applied appropriately. Pryor skillfully guides us to recognize that our awkward moments can be leveraged to our benefit. After all, a world without the embrace of awkwardness, mistakes, and differences would be dull indeed. Really enjoyed this read!
November 7, 2023
I saw the author on local morning TV, and based on that interview, I figured this book was a right fit for me. The topic was, for sure. The book isn't super long but offers motivation and tips for embracing the awkward to find personal and professional growth. This is mainly geared toward career advancement, which worked well for me. My only complaint is that it reached a point where it started to feel a little repetitive. Otherwise, this was a helpful and solid read.
December 16, 2023
Surprisingly engagingly written book pointing out something I've been thinking about for a while: All social situations come with at least _some_ awkwardness. And: when awkward moments happen they can be very un-awkward moments if we all just acknowledge the awkwardness and move on. The book helps the reader understand how they can embrace the awkward and move towards being less encumbered by anxiety about social situations.
September 26, 2023
We’re all awkward in our own ways, and this book really helps embrace your own version. Henna gives great advice throughout the book to walk you through those awkward moments in the workplace or everyday life. She uses real world examples and experiences to make her awkward situations feel more relatable. Overall a really great read!
January 4, 2024
This book was delightful and encouraging! It gave me a great perspective on all my awkward moments, and described how those moments are the ones that truly help others feel connected to you. I also love how Henna reminds us that the uncomfortable moments create growth and improvement if we are open to it. I am feeling eager and inspired after reading this :-)
December 31, 2024
As practical as it is enjoyable
It’s hard to find a truly helpful business book that is as fun to read as this one. Henna does a brilliant job of illustrating relatable yet hilarious everyday stories to make the case as to why you should get awkward and uncomfortable in pursuit of your highest potential.
It’s hard to find a truly helpful business book that is as fun to read as this one. Henna does a brilliant job of illustrating relatable yet hilarious everyday stories to make the case as to why you should get awkward and uncomfortable in pursuit of your highest potential.
September 24, 2023
This book explains how being awkward is nothing to be ashamed of. By simply stating, "I don't quite know what I'm doing here, but I'm learning as I go," we can avoid a great deal of embarassing situations.
September 16, 2024
Excellent! Well written, researched based, and humorous guide to overcome the universal challenge of awkwardness. Would highly recommend for women in leadership roles, or for mentors of shy or introverted kids who are 8 years or older.
July 24, 2025
Henna was my coach shortly after she left corporate and learning to embrace me versus fit in a box changed my life. I went from bringing in a job I hated to owning my own business and stepping into a life I loved. Great read on how by leaning into you, life can be pretty read
September 21, 2023
This book will change your life!
Embrace Awkward as your Superpower!
Once you realize that awkward moments are nothing to be feared, nothing can get in the way of what you want.
Embrace Awkward as your Superpower!
Once you realize that awkward moments are nothing to be feared, nothing can get in the way of what you want.
September 29, 2023
I loved this book - and wish I had it when I was growing up. Glad I have it now, though! 10 stars.
February 15, 2024
Good Awkward is a clear and concise book with a ton of great insight on how to embrace awkwardness. If you are wanting to learn how to use awkwardness to your advantage, read this book!
March 11, 2024
Pryor, perhaps unintentionally, created a very helpful little piece for the neurodivergent.
April 20, 2024
Worthless
May 17, 2024
I loved this book from start to finish. So many moments where I thought, thank goodness its not just me. Really fantastic examples and ideas to change the way you approach scenarios.
June 5, 2024
Super quick read, but I found it interesting and immediately shared it with a coworker.
June 9, 2024
Easy read, not dense.
July 5, 2024
Absolutely empowering read! The texture and font of the pages gave me sensory glimmers also. Very engaging and satisfactory. I feel like I gained a new appreciation for myself!
July 6, 2024
Good easy read. I didnt relate to everything in the book but read it to better understand the way those who do relate, feel in social situations.
November 25, 2024
2024 BIBA Winner!
May 3, 2025
每個人都有尷尬的經驗，不是只有你，害怕尷尬讓人裹足不前，事先為不可避免的社交意外及尷尬場面做準備，不以零缺點為目標。
內向超怕尷尬的社恐人覺得乾貨滿滿，作者語氣也很幽默。
內向超怕尷尬的社恐人覺得乾貨滿滿，作者語氣也很幽默。
November 21, 2023
I loved this book and the framework Henna Pryor shared for embracing the cringe. I think it should be required reading for folks starting out in their career!
I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS BOOK!
I'll post my review after I'm done but this is SOOOOO on point and up my alley. Awkward for life!
I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS BOOK!
I'll post my review after I'm done but this is SOOOOO on point and up my alley. Awkward for life!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews