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It’s Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day: A Journey to Self-Discovery

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"Fabulous" leads the reader on a journey from sadness and self-recrimination through discovering hope and self-acceptance to achieving one’s destiny and finding self-love.

If you want to deal with daily struggles without becoming a basket case, to handle adversity and rejection with positivity, to keep moving forward without becoming despondent, and travel a path towards self-love and finding your destiny, then this book is for you!

In what critics have described as “A memoir of experiences with pithy prose,” Ally Dalsimer tackles the struggles of loss, motivation, and the journey we all take to be the person we want to be.

Weaving a dramatic yet light-hearted narrative punctuated by deeply moving personal stories, sayings, and observations, You Don’t Have to Be Fabulous Every Day! leads us on a journey to navigate periods of change with an eye to identifying and achieving our personal life goals with purpose and without self-sabotage or recrimination. You’ll learn:

• How to navigate dealing with stress and anxiety in your daily life
• How to be more positive when coping with difficult people and situations
• How to change your brain whether you’re dealing with grief and loss or a difficult boss
• How positivity can be your strongest weapon for handling adversity and rejection
• How to get yourself unstuck and keep moving forward no matter what you’re facing
• How to manage daily struggles with grace and resilience
• How to love yourself and stop the self-sabotage

Tapping into wide-ranging wisdom from Thomas Edison to Yoda, from Martin Luther King, Jr. to Led Zeppelin, Ally will inspire you with insights for handling adversity and trauma with strength and wisdom. As she explains, “It’s okay if our paths are not linear—taking small steps or a few side steps is better than sliding backwards.”

154 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2024

14 people are currently reading
1380 people want to read

About the author

Ally Dalsimer

3 books12 followers
ALLY DALSIMER is an award-winning author, motivational speaker, and podcast host. Ally's works explore themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the complexities of the human experience. With a unique ability to capture the nuances of life’s most significant moments—both joyful and painful—Ally’s writing resonates deeply with readers. Her debut book, It’s Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day, has been praised for its unflinching honesty and relatable narrative. It has earned multiple awards and was named a CM Top 50 Nonfiction Book of 2024.

Ally is the proud mom of two amazing kids and a chubby rescue cat named Pooma.

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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for Readbyheart .
581 reviews69 followers
May 18, 2023
•In a world that demands perfection and fosters intense competition, the pressures we face can become overwhelming. Stress and anxiety often arise when we strive to make everything perfect but find ourselves weighed down by life's challenges. "It's Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day!" by Ally Dalsimer is a self-help book that offers valuable insights and guidance for navigating these struggles and finding positivity.

One of the notable strengths of this book is Dalsimer's ability to connect with readers through her personal experiences. She shares deeply moving stories that resonate with authenticity, allowing readers to feel understood and less alone in their struggles. By weaving together her own narratives, famous sayings, and insightful observations, the author creates a tapestry of wisdom that guides readers towards personal growth and resilience.

The book explores various aspects of life that can contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. Dalsimer addresses the pressure to constantly strive for perfection, the impact of societal expectations, and the difficulties of handling criticism. Through practical advice and relatable anecdotes, she provides readers with tools to manage these challenges and develop a positive mindset.

Dalsimer's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book a compelling read. She strikes a balance between sharing personal stories and offering practical guidance, ensuring that readers not only gain insight but also find actionable steps to apply to their own lives. The author's emphasis on self-acceptance and self-love is empowering, encouraging readers to embrace their flaws and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being.

Furthermore, this book promotes the importance of resilience and perseverance. Dalsimer emphasizes the value of taking small steps and embracing setbacks as part of the journey towards personal growth. By addressing the fear of failure and offering strategies to overcome obstacles, the book inspires readers to keep moving forward even in the face of adversity.

While the book is insightful and well-written, it could benefit from providing a broader range of perspectives and experiences. Including diverse voices would enhance the inclusivity of the book and allow a wider range of readers to connect with the content.

Overall, "It's Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day!" is a highly recommended self-help book that encourages readers to embrace their imperfections and prioritize self-acceptance. Ally Dalsimer's compassionate approach, combined with practical advice and relatable anecdotes, makes this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance in navigating life's challenges. By reminding readers that it's okay to have off days and encouraging self-love as a lifelong practice, Dalsimer empowers individuals to lead more fulfilled and authentic lives.
Profile Image for Readbyheart .
581 reviews69 followers
May 18, 2023
•In a world that demands perfection and fosters intense competition, the pressures we face can become overwhelming. Stress and anxiety often arise when we strive to make everything perfect but find ourselves weighed down by life's challenges. "It's Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day!" by Ally Dalsimer is a self-help book that offers valuable insights and guidance for navigating these struggles and finding positivity.

One of the notable strengths of this book is Dalsimer's ability to connect with readers through her personal experiences. She shares deeply moving stories that resonate with authenticity, allowing readers to feel understood and less alone in their struggles. By weaving together her own narratives, famous sayings, and insightful observations, the author creates a tapestry of wisdom that guides readers towards personal growth and resilience.

The book explores various aspects of life that can contribute to stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. Dalsimer addresses the pressure to constantly strive for perfection, the impact of societal expectations, and the difficulties of handling criticism. Through practical advice and relatable anecdotes, she provides readers with tools to manage these challenges and develop a positive mindset.

Dalsimer's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book a compelling read. She strikes a balance between sharing personal stories and offering practical guidance, ensuring that readers not only gain insight but also find actionable steps to apply to their own lives. The author's emphasis on self-acceptance and self-love is empowering, encouraging readers to embrace their flaws and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being.

Furthermore, this book promotes the importance of resilience and perseverance. Dalsimer emphasizes the value of taking small steps and embracing setbacks as part of the journey towards personal growth. By addressing the fear of failure and offering strategies to overcome obstacles, the book inspires readers to keep moving forward even in the face of adversity.

While the book is insightful and well-written, it could benefit from providing a broader range of perspectives and experiences. Including diverse voices would enhance the inclusivity of the book and allow a wider range of readers to connect with the content.

Overall, "It's Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day!" is a highly recommended self-help book that encourages readers to embrace their imperfections and prioritize self-acceptance. Ally Dalsimer's compassionate approach, combined with practical advice and relatable anecdotes, makes this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance in navigating life's challenges. By reminding readers that it's okay to have off days and encouraging self-love as a lifelong practice, Dalsimer empowers individuals to lead more fulfilled and authentic lives.
1,494 reviews6 followers
June 20, 2023
This is a very good book of positive advice, affirmations, & examples ...... it's all quite realistic, 'down to earth' offerings.....easy to take in & apply/use. It's short enough that it can be read in 1 sitting, & be satisfied/happy that you read it! I really liked the content, the book.......but I'm not really taken with the cover art...I feel like it projects kind of negative vibes, whereas the content of the book projects such a positive message.......might be a 5 star positive message! There's good, easy, welcome bits of ideas for everyone! I'm glad I was able to read it!
I received an e-ARC of the book from publisher BooksGoSocial via NetGalley, for review purposes. This is my own fair/honest review.
6 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2023
This is a quick read with great reminders as we proceed through our days. These are the points which spoke to me.
If we have a difficult task to complete, it is easy to find other "more important" things to do. It doesn't matter how much we accomplish. Just start. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to take a break. Take a walk, take a nap, read a book, something that will re-energize you.

The fear of the unknown can keep us from trying new things or taking that trip. Will you regret later on that you didn't try or go on that journey?

Lastly, remember that if needed, you can ask for help. This will benefit you and the person who helped you.
1 review
April 17, 2023
I could not have read this book at a better time. The insights and advice Ally gives from her personal journey, all tied together with her motif of famous quotes is seriously brilliant, and actually helped me a lot in how I should view and approach my day to day life. Highly, highly recommend this one.
2 reviews1 follower
Read
May 2, 2023
Perfect bite-sized morsels. This is a great compilation of anecdotes and life lessons that help you feel better on the days you're not fabulous. Would be great for a daily meditation.
Profile Image for Moona.
986 reviews78 followers
January 6, 2025
It’s Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day: A Journey to Self-Discovery by Ally Dalsimer is an empowering guide to navigating life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and self-love. In this 154-page book, Dalsimer blends personal anecdotes, motivational insights, and practical strategies to help readers overcome stress, rejection, and self-doubt.

With a light-hearted yet profound tone, the author encourages readers to embrace imperfection and take small, meaningful steps toward their goals. Covering topics like managing anxiety, handling difficult people, and overcoming grief, the book offers actionable advice paired with wisdom from diverse sources like Yoda, Martin Luther King Jr., and Led Zeppelin.

Perfect for those seeking inspiration and practical tools for self-improvement, this book reminds us that progress doesn’t have to be linear and that it’s okay to not always feel “fabulous.” It’s a journey of self-acceptance and rediscovery that resonates with anyone facing adversity.
Profile Image for Gladys.
251 reviews12 followers
October 11, 2025
This book sounds like a genuine guide for anyone trying to find balance between life’s chaos and their own self-worth. You Don’t Have to Be Fabulous Every Day! feels refreshingly honest, acknowledging that we all have messy days, yet offering hope that we can still move forward with grace and purpose. I love how Ally Dalsimer blends humor, heart, and wisdom while tackling topics like loss, anxiety, and self-sabotage. The mix of personal stories and motivational insights sounds both comforting and empowering. Definitely seems like one of those reads that reminds you to be kinder to yourself while still chasing your goals.
Profile Image for Tawney.
326 reviews9 followers
June 15, 2023
Ally Dalsimer is like that friend that listens to your anxieties and points out some very common sense reason to rethink the situation. (OK, I don’t know anyone who can instantly come up with appropriate quotes, and it does reinforce what she’s saying.) She gives examples from her own life and they are relatable. She avoids naval gazing and ‘working on yourself’ and chooses a much lighter approach that is reassuring and helpful. It’s a nice little book to keep around and revisit from time to time.
I received a digital advance copy compliments of BooksGoSocial and NetGalley.
Profile Image for Pam.
9,875 reviews54 followers
May 10, 2023
I received an electronic ARC from BooksGoSocial through NetGalley.
Dalsimer offers a look at her thoughts on life in a free flowing style. Readers can either read straight through or read a section and pause to add their own ideas. This is one to read and then reread portions that directly connect with your life. She lets us in to see what has shaped her ideas along with offering tips and suggestions for readers. It's a lighter read with affirmations on how to enjoy life.
Profile Image for lola Franco.
1,098 reviews14 followers
December 6, 2023
I went to college with Ally, and when she told she'd written a book, I couldn't wait to read it.

I read the book in May, just after my mom died, and I was definitely not feeling fabulous.

She offers advice for all times, not just when one is sad, or having a hard time. These are good for everyone. Reminders to take it easy - one day at a time, and do your best. And to enjoy the little things. Like this book.
Profile Image for gj indieBRAG.
1,795 reviews96 followers
April 12, 2025
Congratulations on this incredible achievement! The B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group) is a prestigious recognition for self-published books, and it speaks volumes about the quality and appeal of IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY: A Journey to Self-Discovery by Ally Dalsime. This honor places it among a distinguished group of reader-recommended works.
77 reviews1 follower
November 11, 2025
pretty simplistic and short self-help guide. too many examples around losing weight for me personally as someone who works and advocates for people with disordered eating, I don't find those examples helpful and even bordering on ablelistic and fatphobic. otherwise pretty basic information.
1 review
January 13, 2026
It’s Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day by Ally Dalsimer is a necessary reminder that grace and responsibility can exist at the same time. This book doesn’t give you permission to stay stuck or make excuses, it gives the reader permission to be honest about where you are, take ownership of it, and move forward with intention.

What stood out to me is the balance between compassion and accountability. Ally acknowledges the hard days without glorifying them, while still encouraging reflection, growth, and self-awareness. This isn’t about lowering the standard.....it’s about being real enough to admit when you’re not okay and disciplined enough to do the work anyway.

It’s Okay Not to Be Fabulous Every Day is for anyone who understands that healing, growth, and purpose require both grace and action. You’re allowed to have off days. But you’re also responsible for how you show up next. This book meets you there.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews

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