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Perfect Is Boring (And It Tastes Like Kale): Finding Belonging and Purpose Without Changing Who You Are
What if we accepted our struggles and stopped trying to impress our friends? In this poignant, hilarious book, the bestselling co-author of I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants) shares her experiments in finding our way back to each other
Jess Johnston used to feel alone in her mess. In a random burst of courage, she started sharing about those insecurities and struggles out loud, and what she found shocked her. Again and again, people replied, “Me too! I thought I was the only one!”
In Perfect is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale), Jess reminds readers that no one’s living a perfect life, and there’s a powerful interpersonal connection that happens when we’re real about it. Maybe some people are cut out for perfectionism. (Martha Stewart? Daniel Tiger’s Mom?) For the rest of us, the secret to living a full and connected life is finding the courage to show up as our real selves and stop participating in our own loneliness.
With honesty, heart, and humor, Johnston shares the lessons she’s learning (and relearning) about cultivating an authentic life,
“I count, I’m important, and I matter—even if people introduce themselves to me 500 times.”“I want to be the best mother that has ever mothered, but it turns out I’m a mother who has a literal meltdown because her vacuum got run over by the car.”“Showing up is more important than winning. Trying is more important than saving face.”
Written for anyone who's ever felt left out, or wanted to throw their phone across the room after looking at Instagram, Perfect is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale) offers readers a breath of fresh air by sharing the unfiltered truth that we're in this together.
Jess Johnston used to feel alone in her mess. In a random burst of courage, she started sharing about those insecurities and struggles out loud, and what she found shocked her. Again and again, people replied, “Me too! I thought I was the only one!”
In Perfect is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale), Jess reminds readers that no one’s living a perfect life, and there’s a powerful interpersonal connection that happens when we’re real about it. Maybe some people are cut out for perfectionism. (Martha Stewart? Daniel Tiger’s Mom?) For the rest of us, the secret to living a full and connected life is finding the courage to show up as our real selves and stop participating in our own loneliness.
With honesty, heart, and humor, Johnston shares the lessons she’s learning (and relearning) about cultivating an authentic life,
“I count, I’m important, and I matter—even if people introduce themselves to me 500 times.”“I want to be the best mother that has ever mothered, but it turns out I’m a mother who has a literal meltdown because her vacuum got run over by the car.”“Showing up is more important than winning. Trying is more important than saving face.”
Written for anyone who's ever felt left out, or wanted to throw their phone across the room after looking at Instagram, Perfect is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale) offers readers a breath of fresh air by sharing the unfiltered truth that we're in this together.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2025
103 people are currently reading
5178 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 15, 2025
A decent self help style book. 👍 Based on reviews I had anticipated it being funnier. 🤷🏼♀️
March 17, 2025
I enjoyed this one and I absolutely love the title. That reeled me in.
I loved the overall message and the emphasis on building community. It's hard sometimes to set time aside for such things, but it is ultimately rewarding and in return seems like less of a sacrifice of time.
This one is going to go to the top of my reread list. So 5 stars.
I loved the overall message and the emphasis on building community. It's hard sometimes to set time aside for such things, but it is ultimately rewarding and in return seems like less of a sacrifice of time.
This one is going to go to the top of my reread list. So 5 stars.
March 8, 2025
Loved this! So relatable and funny.
October 10, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read this book. It was relatable and taught how important it is to give yourself grace in not just difficult times but day-to-day.
The book centers on topics such as: perfectionism, fear of failure and rejection, belonging, connections, what it is to have a full life, and how you can't do it all. Jess Johnson gives countless personal stories throughout the book as examples.
I think because I am not a parent, I personally wasn't able to connect with as many stories. There wasn't anything wrong with this and the book. I just didn't feel like I fit into the ideal reader for it. Otherwise, I think it was a light and inspiring read.
The book centers on topics such as: perfectionism, fear of failure and rejection, belonging, connections, what it is to have a full life, and how you can't do it all. Jess Johnson gives countless personal stories throughout the book as examples.
I think because I am not a parent, I personally wasn't able to connect with as many stories. There wasn't anything wrong with this and the book. I just didn't feel like I fit into the ideal reader for it. Otherwise, I think it was a light and inspiring read.
May 19, 2025
Reading this book felt like grabbing a cup of coffee (or wine… or both) with your funniest, most honest friend—the one who tells it like it is, calls you out gently, and makes you snort-laugh at least three times in one sitting.
Jess Johnston gets it. That pressure to be the perfect mom/wife/friend/human? She’s been there, and she’s over it—and by the end of this book, you’ll be over it too (or at least working on it). She dives into all the ridiculous lies we tell ourselves—like needing to have it all together or worrying what Becky from PTA thinks—and flips them on their heads with humor, grace, and a serious dose of real talk.
It’s not preachy, it’s not too “self-helpy”—it’s like texting your BFF during a mental spiral and getting the exact message you needed to hear, but funnier.
If you’ve ever felt like a hot mess in a world full of Instagram highlight reels, this book is your permission slip to embrace your weird, wonderful, imperfect self. Highly recommend it for your next girls’ night in—or just when you need a laugh and a little soul hug.
Jess Johnston gets it. That pressure to be the perfect mom/wife/friend/human? She’s been there, and she’s over it—and by the end of this book, you’ll be over it too (or at least working on it). She dives into all the ridiculous lies we tell ourselves—like needing to have it all together or worrying what Becky from PTA thinks—and flips them on their heads with humor, grace, and a serious dose of real talk.
It’s not preachy, it’s not too “self-helpy”—it’s like texting your BFF during a mental spiral and getting the exact message you needed to hear, but funnier.
If you’ve ever felt like a hot mess in a world full of Instagram highlight reels, this book is your permission slip to embrace your weird, wonderful, imperfect self. Highly recommend it for your next girls’ night in—or just when you need a laugh and a little soul hug.
December 20, 2024
Perfect is Boring (But It Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston is the most relatable, hilarious, and heartwarming book I’ve read in a long time. It feels like sitting down with your super wise, super funny older sister who just gets it. I felt like this could’ve been written just for me, right down to the late-diagnosed ADHD and red cheeks. This book resonated with me so much that I even cried a couple times because I felt so seen – and I’m not a crier.
The way Jess writes is so real. She’s like, “Life is messy, perfection is overrated, and here’s why we should laugh about it.” I love how she mixes humor with deeper stuff. Her honesty about things like self-doubt, body image, and just figuring life out makes you feel less alone and that it’s okay to embrace your weirdness.
If you’re constantly feeling the pressure to have it all together, you NEED this book. It’s a reminder to embrace the chaos and just keep going, flaws and all. I appreciated this book so much and I will recommend it to all of my messy friends.
Thank you to Convergent Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The way Jess writes is so real. She’s like, “Life is messy, perfection is overrated, and here’s why we should laugh about it.” I love how she mixes humor with deeper stuff. Her honesty about things like self-doubt, body image, and just figuring life out makes you feel less alone and that it’s okay to embrace your weirdness.
If you’re constantly feeling the pressure to have it all together, you NEED this book. It’s a reminder to embrace the chaos and just keep going, flaws and all. I appreciated this book so much and I will recommend it to all of my messy friends.
Thank you to Convergent Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2024
Perfect is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale) is the hilarious book bestie all women need. I laughed myself silly at the relateable and squirmy moments that, as it turns out, are much more common to being a human than my brain would have me believe. This book encourages authenticity and ditching the picture perfect image you’ve been curating for an Instagram square (or whatever social media channels we are using these days).
Divided out into three sections, Jess Johnston tackles three areas of authentic living: finding authenticity by loving yourself as you are and where you are, finding authenticity through shared connection with others, and finding authenticity by avoiding self sabotage and having and chasing your big scary dreams.
This book was fun and funny and a perfect companion when you’re facing a new and scary chapter in life and you need a pep talk from a bestie.
I’d like to thank Convergent Books and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Divided out into three sections, Jess Johnston tackles three areas of authentic living: finding authenticity by loving yourself as you are and where you are, finding authenticity through shared connection with others, and finding authenticity by avoiding self sabotage and having and chasing your big scary dreams.
This book was fun and funny and a perfect companion when you’re facing a new and scary chapter in life and you need a pep talk from a bestie.
I’d like to thank Convergent Books and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 26, 2025
I’d rate this a 2.75 or a low three. I think this book had some nice pearls of wisdom- unfortunately I just don’t think I’m the target audience!
February 2, 2025
This book is a beautiful reminder to embrace our imperfections and love the people around us extravagantly. In retelling how she struggled, and then found belonging and purpose in each stage of her life, Jess encourages others to do the same.
May 20, 2025
From the moment I started reading, I knew this book would resonate with me. The mention of 'fridge crispers' oh my god (if you know, you know). I felt like Jess Johnston was reaching out to a unique part of my soul.
It was as if the book grabbed my face and said, “I see you, I hear you, and you are absolutely not alone.” If you are like me; that girl who feels like she’s just straight white-knuckling it through life, living on a prayer while clutching a double shot iced espresso (which I probably shouldn’t have ordered, and is likely part of the problem, right?) who often finds herself whispering at least 100x day, 'What the h*** is wrong with you?!' Or leaving every social gathering contemplating an immediate move to the mountains to live among the hermits because who allowed me in public 😅 —then this book is a must-read for you. It made me laugh, cry, and for a fleeting moment, it reminded me that it’s perfectly okay to embrace my beautifully chaotic and messy humanity—because honestly, perfection is just so boring, right?
It was as if the book grabbed my face and said, “I see you, I hear you, and you are absolutely not alone.” If you are like me; that girl who feels like she’s just straight white-knuckling it through life, living on a prayer while clutching a double shot iced espresso (which I probably shouldn’t have ordered, and is likely part of the problem, right?) who often finds herself whispering at least 100x day, 'What the h*** is wrong with you?!' Or leaving every social gathering contemplating an immediate move to the mountains to live among the hermits because who allowed me in public 😅 —then this book is a must-read for you. It made me laugh, cry, and for a fleeting moment, it reminded me that it’s perfectly okay to embrace my beautifully chaotic and messy humanity—because honestly, perfection is just so boring, right?
September 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Convergent Books for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
The title is what initially drew me in, but the author's writing and relatability kept me turning the pages. I admit to having some hesitations after seeing this book under the Christian genre, because in the past I struggled with authors preaching or pushing their religious views on the reader. But Jess Johnston writes in a very accessible, respectful way, and even discusses the value of surrounding ourselves with those who have different views and beliefs.
While this book's target audience is women, and more specifically mothers, I think that the overall messages could be wonderful reminders for everyone. Part memoir, part guide, Johnston breaks it down into three parts and 14 "lies" we tell ourselves - Things that hold us back from finding connection and purpose. The humor and honesty is what makes this book so enjoyable. It didn't feel like one of those sterile, self-help books, but rather an inspiring nudge to be your authentic self. To be perfectly imperfect. When I think of all of the positive interactions and conversations I've had, they occurred when I (and the other person) shared authentically. The need to be perfect and the worry about saying the "right" things fell by the wayside. We spend too much time thinking we're not enough or focusing on our "flaws" that we might miss out on the opportunity for real connection.
I love the discussions surrounding community, empowering others, and vulnerability. You cannot find belonging by isolating and hiding your true self. We need to share our unique gifts, to speak up, and get out of our own way. I also really like and appreciate the conversations around mental health - Whether the general respectfulness and awareness or the personal struggles that the author shared.
I found myself highlighting numerous quotes and passages, as I could relate to so much of what Johnston had to say. This is a book I would love to own a physical copy of to pick up and refer back to.
The title is what initially drew me in, but the author's writing and relatability kept me turning the pages. I admit to having some hesitations after seeing this book under the Christian genre, because in the past I struggled with authors preaching or pushing their religious views on the reader. But Jess Johnston writes in a very accessible, respectful way, and even discusses the value of surrounding ourselves with those who have different views and beliefs.
While this book's target audience is women, and more specifically mothers, I think that the overall messages could be wonderful reminders for everyone. Part memoir, part guide, Johnston breaks it down into three parts and 14 "lies" we tell ourselves - Things that hold us back from finding connection and purpose. The humor and honesty is what makes this book so enjoyable. It didn't feel like one of those sterile, self-help books, but rather an inspiring nudge to be your authentic self. To be perfectly imperfect. When I think of all of the positive interactions and conversations I've had, they occurred when I (and the other person) shared authentically. The need to be perfect and the worry about saying the "right" things fell by the wayside. We spend too much time thinking we're not enough or focusing on our "flaws" that we might miss out on the opportunity for real connection.
I love the discussions surrounding community, empowering others, and vulnerability. You cannot find belonging by isolating and hiding your true self. We need to share our unique gifts, to speak up, and get out of our own way. I also really like and appreciate the conversations around mental health - Whether the general respectfulness and awareness or the personal struggles that the author shared.
I found myself highlighting numerous quotes and passages, as I could relate to so much of what Johnston had to say. This is a book I would love to own a physical copy of to pick up and refer back to.
July 26, 2024
Perfect Is Boring (And It Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston is an absolute must read for any woman who has ever felt like she was not good enough. Imagine a book length version of America Ferrera's famous monologue from the Barbie movie written with humor. This is Jess Johnston's new book. I absolutely loved so many things about this book. The book is absolutely hilarious and pokes fun at the absurdity of the pressures that we all put on ourselves. The book is divided into three sections: Lies that keep us from loving ourselves as we are (or, becoming an imperfectionist), lies that keep us from connection (or, how to quit performing and start belonging, and lies that keep us from dreaming big and living a full life (or, how to try things without fear of failure). Each chapter is entertaining, validating and practical. At the end of the each chapter there is a "how to section implement this into your life section." While I am not usually a big fan of self help books, I felt that these sections were fantastic.
One of my favorite concepts in the book was about playing for the junior varsity team as a parent and being ok with no being on the perfectly dressed, PTO leading varsity team. There were many other thoughts that I loved just as much as this one but do not want to give away in this review.
If you want a fun, useful read that will make you laugh and feel better about life, this book is an absolute must read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Convergent Books for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorite concepts in the book was about playing for the junior varsity team as a parent and being ok with no being on the perfectly dressed, PTO leading varsity team. There were many other thoughts that I loved just as much as this one but do not want to give away in this review.
If you want a fun, useful read that will make you laugh and feel better about life, this book is an absolute must read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Convergent Books for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2025
Perfect Is Boring (And It Tastes Like Kale) offers a refreshing take on authenticity and self-acceptance in our perfection-obsessed culture. Johnston delivers practical wisdom with warmth and accessibility, though the depth may vary depending on where you are in your personal journey.
Johnston's conversational style makes the topics discussed digestible, particularly for those navigating the challenges of early parenthood and identity shifts. While marketed broadly, the book resonates most strongly with young mothers seeking reassurance and community in their experiences.
The book's strength lies in its positive, affirming message about embracing imperfection. However, readers seeking nuanced examination of these themes across diverse life experiences may find the perspectives somewhat limited. Johnston's approach favors approachability over complexity, making it an excellent entry point but perhaps less satisfying for those seeking more challenging insights.
I anticipated more humor and edge based on the promising title, but Johnston opts for gentle encouragement rather than sharp wit. This softer approach serves her core audience well, though it may disappoint readers expecting more incisive social commentary.
Overall, Johnston has created a supportive companion for those beginning to question unrealistic standards—a warm invitation to the liberating world of "good enough" that, while not revolutionary, offers genuine comfort to its intended audience.
Johnston's conversational style makes the topics discussed digestible, particularly for those navigating the challenges of early parenthood and identity shifts. While marketed broadly, the book resonates most strongly with young mothers seeking reassurance and community in their experiences.
The book's strength lies in its positive, affirming message about embracing imperfection. However, readers seeking nuanced examination of these themes across diverse life experiences may find the perspectives somewhat limited. Johnston's approach favors approachability over complexity, making it an excellent entry point but perhaps less satisfying for those seeking more challenging insights.
I anticipated more humor and edge based on the promising title, but Johnston opts for gentle encouragement rather than sharp wit. This softer approach serves her core audience well, though it may disappoint readers expecting more incisive social commentary.
Overall, Johnston has created a supportive companion for those beginning to question unrealistic standards—a warm invitation to the liberating world of "good enough" that, while not revolutionary, offers genuine comfort to its intended audience.
August 18, 2025
This book offers a candid, refreshingly self-aware, and deeply heartfelt exploration of letting go of perfectionism and what it means to live authentically in a world obsessed with appearances. Instead of chasing routines, edited images, or constant self-improvement, the author reminds readers that true joy and belonging come from embracing life’s imperfections. Through stories that resonate on both personal and universal levels, she highlights the freedom that comes from admitting mistakes, being vulnerable, and laughing at life's messy moments.
I loved how approachable the book is. The author doesn’t preach; she writes like a friend who admits she’s also navigating these challenges. Each chapter tackles a common misconception about adulthood and offers a gentle step forward—whether it’s embracing your “mess,” permission to ask for help, or the freedom in saying “I’m not okay today.” The humor keeps the tough truths from becoming overwhelming, while the honesty makes the book relatable. This book is for anyone—especially moms—who has ever felt exhausted trying to meet impossible standards.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
I loved how approachable the book is. The author doesn’t preach; she writes like a friend who admits she’s also navigating these challenges. Each chapter tackles a common misconception about adulthood and offers a gentle step forward—whether it’s embracing your “mess,” permission to ask for help, or the freedom in saying “I’m not okay today.” The humor keeps the tough truths from becoming overwhelming, while the honesty makes the book relatable. This book is for anyone—especially moms—who has ever felt exhausted trying to meet impossible standards.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
October 13, 2025
Perfect is Boring... is a great book for those of us who have spent far too much time, far too much effort attempting to get as close to perfect as is humanly possible, who have been beating ourselves up each and every time we examine ourselves with a magnifying glass and found ourselves lacking in some way. ENOUGH!!!! As this author reminds us, it is far more important to find acceptance, to give ourselves grace, to be kind and giving and generous of spirit than to be what some other might refer to as perfect. She also reminds us that we are not alone in this pursuit of perfection, and, in fact, we are among friends, since we all do it. However, it is high time we learn to give ourselves a break, to stop engaging in negative self-talk, saying hurtful things we'd never say to a friend, or even to a stranger. There may be parts of us that are deficient in some respect, messy in others, but there are so many more parts of us that are special and pretty great. We need to recognize those parts and celebrate ourselves for a change.
Jess Johnston is a visionary and Perfect is Boring... is just the pat on the back I needed right now. I believe we can all benefit from the lessons within its many entertaining anecdotes and stories.
Jess Johnston is a visionary and Perfect is Boring... is just the pat on the back I needed right now. I believe we can all benefit from the lessons within its many entertaining anecdotes and stories.
February 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars (Excellent)
Setting: Contemporary, relatable social settings
Genre: Self-Help
Perfect Is Boring and It Tastes Like Kale is an honest, funny, and refreshingly real take on embracing imperfection. Jess Johnston’s voice feels like a conversation with a good friend—one who isn’t afraid to say the things we’re all secretly thinking. With humor and heart, she dismantles the unrealistic expectations we place on ourselves, reminding us that connection isn’t found in perfection, but in shared struggles and authenticity.
I loved Johnston’s witty storytelling and the way she tackled heavy topics—like rejection, people-pleasing, and self-worth—with a mix of vulnerability and humor. Her personal anecdotes made me feel seen, and I often found myself nodding along, thinking, Me too!
While some chapters felt a bit repetitive, the overall message was powerful: we don’t have to have it all together to be worthy of love and belonging. If you enjoy books that balance self-help with humor, this is a great pick. A fun, affirming read for anyone who’s ever felt like a “junior varsity adult” (spoiler: that’s all of us).
Setting: Contemporary, relatable social settings
Genre: Self-Help
Perfect Is Boring and It Tastes Like Kale is an honest, funny, and refreshingly real take on embracing imperfection. Jess Johnston’s voice feels like a conversation with a good friend—one who isn’t afraid to say the things we’re all secretly thinking. With humor and heart, she dismantles the unrealistic expectations we place on ourselves, reminding us that connection isn’t found in perfection, but in shared struggles and authenticity.
I loved Johnston’s witty storytelling and the way she tackled heavy topics—like rejection, people-pleasing, and self-worth—with a mix of vulnerability and humor. Her personal anecdotes made me feel seen, and I often found myself nodding along, thinking, Me too!
While some chapters felt a bit repetitive, the overall message was powerful: we don’t have to have it all together to be worthy of love and belonging. If you enjoy books that balance self-help with humor, this is a great pick. A fun, affirming read for anyone who’s ever felt like a “junior varsity adult” (spoiler: that’s all of us).
November 10, 2024
Jess Johnston is becoming one of my favorite writers. Her writing is warm, welcoming, and a hug for your soul. In her first solo book (she co-wrote the wildly popular I'll Be There But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants), she covers the lies we tell ourselves that make us feel not good enough in various aspects of our life including parenting and community. Or as she likes to put it, what we tell ourselves to keep us thinking we are junior varsity adults. She breaks down the lies into chapters with helpful pep talks and ideas at the end to get us into the right headspace. The lies and stories are so relatable you'll wonder if secretly she got into your own diary. As women we are often so hard on ourselves constantly thinking, "why can't I be great at x,y,z like so and so" and Jess's writing gives us the confidence to see no one has it all figured out and we are doing just fine being ourselves. I loved her stories and learning more about her life. Thank you Convergent Books and NetGalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. Pub Day is Feb 4th, 2025.
March 16, 2025
This is my kind of self help book, reading this felt like having a conversation with myself and a very wise, very relatable friend all at once. At the beginning of the book, the author writes ‘The answers lie in leaning into our flaws and our gifts’. This is something I have been trying to do with varying degrees of success for a few years now and this book validated that journey, whilst reminding myself not to shame myself for not achieving it 100% of the time.
I really like the format of the book where each chapter addresses a myth that traps us in a cycle of shame and perfectionism. But what made it really great was that it was humorous and serious at the same time, which made it infinitely more fun to read. I found the author really funny and chuckled or smiled my way through this book which was a much needed reprieve from my perfectionistic spiralling.
The only thing I didn't like was the casual mention of Marie’s chocolate mayonnaise cake, like mayonnaise is a normal thing to put in cake. I am haunted and traumatised by the thought!
I really like the format of the book where each chapter addresses a myth that traps us in a cycle of shame and perfectionism. But what made it really great was that it was humorous and serious at the same time, which made it infinitely more fun to read. I found the author really funny and chuckled or smiled my way through this book which was a much needed reprieve from my perfectionistic spiralling.
The only thing I didn't like was the casual mention of Marie’s chocolate mayonnaise cake, like mayonnaise is a normal thing to put in cake. I am haunted and traumatised by the thought!
December 20, 2024
I would like to first of all thank the publishing team and Netgalley for being able to read this beautiful book.
It's a warm hug for all of us messy people, for the creative minds and the imperfect humans. This book is a pep talk to make you want to find and create the beautiful and exciting in everyday life.
It's a spark of hope and a celebration of uniqueness.
From time to time there might be a bit much of "moral superiority" - being a good samaritan kind of talk, but it's all good because the overall message is cohesive and well balanced.
Thank you so much for this cozy, inspirational and honest hug to so many of my insecurities. For making me feel like everything is going to be alright and that we all have a space.
I would like to add a quote from the epilogue of this book: " I hope you found belonging in these pages. I hope you found rest. I hope you know that you're wanted, that you're enough." I definitely did. Thank you.
It's a warm hug for all of us messy people, for the creative minds and the imperfect humans. This book is a pep talk to make you want to find and create the beautiful and exciting in everyday life.
It's a spark of hope and a celebration of uniqueness.
From time to time there might be a bit much of "moral superiority" - being a good samaritan kind of talk, but it's all good because the overall message is cohesive and well balanced.
Thank you so much for this cozy, inspirational and honest hug to so many of my insecurities. For making me feel like everything is going to be alright and that we all have a space.
I would like to add a quote from the epilogue of this book: " I hope you found belonging in these pages. I hope you found rest. I hope you know that you're wanted, that you're enough." I definitely did. Thank you.
January 24, 2025
I received an early copy of this book to review and it was EXCELLENT.
I've loved Jess's online presence for a long time, and this book carries on her original, relatable voice. This book is part memoir, part primer on letting go of perfection and living life wide open and joyfully.
Packed with relatable stories with Jess's signature humor, this book made me laugh out loud and tear up by turns. I've never felt so seen by a book before; I felt like I was understood, and Jess has a way of making the things I want feel more attainable.
There's several actionable tips to each chapter that were plausible but challenging, in the way I think all tips for living should be, all packaged up in a humorous, relatable package.
Honestly, Jess knocked it out of the park with this one.
I've loved Jess's online presence for a long time, and this book carries on her original, relatable voice. This book is part memoir, part primer on letting go of perfection and living life wide open and joyfully.
Packed with relatable stories with Jess's signature humor, this book made me laugh out loud and tear up by turns. I've never felt so seen by a book before; I felt like I was understood, and Jess has a way of making the things I want feel more attainable.
There's several actionable tips to each chapter that were plausible but challenging, in the way I think all tips for living should be, all packaged up in a humorous, relatable package.
Honestly, Jess knocked it out of the park with this one.
January 29, 2025
Thank you, Jess, for once again allowing me to be part of your book journey. This one is absolutely amazing.
Anyone who has felt imperfect at some point in their life (so, everyone...) will be able to relate to this book.
Jess has such a way of writing that you feel like you're sitting in her living room, with your comfy sweats and some chips and queso, listening to her tell these stories that you completely understand. She has a way of making you laugh, cry, and want to do life as best as you imperfectly can.
No matter your age or stage of motherhood, there's part of this book that you will connect with and realize that you're not alone in believing those lies.
I can't wait to share this book with my friends!
Anyone who has felt imperfect at some point in their life (so, everyone...) will be able to relate to this book.
Jess has such a way of writing that you feel like you're sitting in her living room, with your comfy sweats and some chips and queso, listening to her tell these stories that you completely understand. She has a way of making you laugh, cry, and want to do life as best as you imperfectly can.
No matter your age or stage of motherhood, there's part of this book that you will connect with and realize that you're not alone in believing those lies.
I can't wait to share this book with my friends!
January 24, 2026
Reading this book felt like I was sitting in a room with a glass of wine talking about life with someone I’d known forever. Making you reflect on life in so many ways but giving you a good laugh or smile along the way. Jess opens up about her entire life, the good the bad and even the ugly. The times of struggle and the times of pure excitement and joy, all to be met with ways to make you realize it’s all okay, because it’s you. No one is perfect, and Jess captures that in so many ways that really make you reflect on yourself and make you realize you are meant to live the life you were given no matter how good, bad or ugly it may get.
January 27, 2025
Jess writes in a way that makes you feel as if you’re sitting in her living room in sweatpants, a cozy blanket, and a warm cup of coffee experiencing this life right alongside her. She captivates women of all ages, walks of life, and makes you feel that you were created for a purpose- we are all unique and we should own it. You will laugh out loud, shed some tears, and literally feel like you have a champion of women cheering you on in this crazy life - just the way you are. This is a must read - an easy read and one you’ll walk away feeling like you can conquer and overcome anything.
March 28, 2025
This book feels like that coffee date with your best friend where you share life updates, dreams, and failures. You laugh and cry for hours. You're never judged, always encouraged, and leave more energized, comforted, and confident than when you arrived. I'm not married, I don't have kids, but my stories don't have to be identical to hers in order for me to find gems of wisdom and action items in this book. 1000% recommend for any reader feeling lonely, awkward in their skin, stuck in life, or in a rut, or just wanting to grow!
April 1, 2025
I impulse checked this out from the library because I thought the title was hilarious. There was a lot I could relate to with the author here (also being someone who didn't receive an ADHD diagnosis until adulthood) and it always feels great to be seen. There is a lot of talk of motherhood as well which I couldn't really relate to (which is okay!) but overall I don't feel like the book had a lot to say on navigating perfectionism that I haven't already heard. I do think it was worth the short read for a little bit of a motivational boost I got to stand up for myself a bit better.
August 18, 2025
Like so many other books with women telling their story of how much they can relate to other women. How we are all in this together and we shouldn’t be judging each other. Good friends are hard to find and when you do, keep them close. Make them your family.
I’ve read or listened to so many books like this and they all say the same thing.
This one was entertaining and the author reads her own book, which I always enjoy.
I wouldn’t shy away from this; it’s just not anything new or different.
I’ve read or listened to so many books like this and they all say the same thing.
This one was entertaining and the author reads her own book, which I always enjoy.
I wouldn’t shy away from this; it’s just not anything new or different.
January 6, 2025
Jess Johnston is far from boring. In her book, Perfect is Boring (and it tastes like kale), she illustrates how imperfection has propelled her into living an authentic life.
Her writing is funny, relatable and raw. There is no sugarcoating experiences or outcomes. Her truth is one that is shared by so many women—a common thread of feelings, anxieties and lies we tell ourselves.
After reading this book women will feel less alone and more confident in their own imperfect life.
Her writing is funny, relatable and raw. There is no sugarcoating experiences or outcomes. Her truth is one that is shared by so many women—a common thread of feelings, anxieties and lies we tell ourselves.
After reading this book women will feel less alone and more confident in their own imperfect life.
January 25, 2025
Jess invites you into her life as she shares the struggles of living in a society that expects perfection & the joy that comes from breaking free of those expectations. You will laugh out loud, likely have at least one tear fall & come away relieved to know that you are not alone in your struggles. You may decide that perfect IS boring & love yourself a bit more knowing that you are anything but boring!
March 5, 2025
Jess Johnston is far from boring. In her book, Perfect is Boring and it tastes like kale, she illustrates how imperfection has propelled her into living an authentic life. Her writing is funny, relatable and raw. there is no sugarcoating experiences or outcomes. Her truth is one that is shared by so many women--a common thread of feelings, anxieties, and lies we tell ourselves.
After reading this book women will feel less alone and more confident in their own imperfect life.
After reading this book women will feel less alone and more confident in their own imperfect life.
April 28, 2025
I feel like these type of self-help books are like mental deep-cleans for me that I have to keep up with regularly or the habits just slide back into place before I can catch it. Is it revolutionary to tell everyone that it's not healthy to live by fear of man or try to co-opt someone else's strengths instead of using your own? Of course not. But I still regularly paused this read to reflect, apply, and resolve.
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