Doctor by day and Bravo’s Real Housewife by night, Tiffany Moon has a prescription for releasing perfectionism and finding joy!
As a self-proclaimed “good girl,” Tiffany was a people pleaser and A-student, fitting into the roles that were prescribed by her Chinese-American family. As a lifelong overachiever, she accomplished a thriving career as an anesthesiologist. Yet Tiffany felt unfulfilled. She spent more time at work than at home with her loving husband and twin girls, didn’t know how to say no to anyone, and was governed by the external pressures of being “perfect” by standards set by society.
In Joy Prescriptions, Tiffany shares her journey reconnecting with herself. In order to feel whole, she had to work on herself from the inside out. This book is what she learned by dropping the perfectionist trope and focusing on rediscovering who she was. She took surprising chances, put herself first, and embraced more creativity and laughter. She dived headfirst into a candle business, became a reality TV star, tried her hand at stand-up comedy, and became a social media influencer. Tiffany abandoned other people’s expectations and started to live for herself and ultimately discover her true self.
Joy Prescriptions is a must-read if you to want add more spark and joy to your life. Tiffany offers a healthy dose of introspection and healing that will release you from the constrained expectations of others and inspire you to explore who you really are. You deserve a life that is authentically designed for more joy, and more you.
I felt like this book was more like a journal with very basic “how to live life” wisdom. I could not connect with Moon. She is definitely a smart, determined and interesting, but I struggled through this.
Thank you Grand Central Publishing & Net Galley for an advanced copy of this ebook.
I like the tone of the book, it’s easier to relate to a Real Dallas Housewife than you might otherwise think. She expresses her internal dialogue and driving factors into her perfectionism and guilt. I wonder if she really did learn to stop chasing perfection though.
Joy Prescriptions is part memoir and part self-help advice. I was hoping for more on the how to release perfectionist tendencies myself. It is lacking the connection on ‘how to’ without having the same opportunities that she had. I wish she had more of her comedy act in it. I would love to listen to that audiobook. Overall, I enjoyed reading through her stories and advice, it’s just missing that plot-arch and something that really pulls you in.
Thanks to Legacy Lit Books for gifting me an advance finished copy. Tiffany Moon’s recount of her upbringing is very similar to what Connie Chung describes in her memoir Connie. Both women were raised by strict Chinese immigrant parents whose top priority was education. Both women’s parents pushed for perfection, and both described feelings of isolation and loneliness as young girls. As a way to cope with these pressures Tiffany found comfort in books. Reading was her escape. When she had nothing to do, her father would give her math worksheets to complete. He thought it was a fun activity for her. Of course Tiffany thought otherwise. However, all the hard work paid off, and Tiffany ultimately graduated from high school early. She was accepted into an early admissions college program. This is where Tiffany began to find herself. After college she became an anesthesiologist. Later she added college professor to her resume. In 2021 Tiffany joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Dallas. Although she doesn’t regret doing the show, she admits it’s not something she would do again. When presented with the opportunity join the show, you would never believe who she called for advice… She called MOMMA DEE🤯😂! Yes! That Momma Dee! Scrappy’s mother from the reality show Love & Hip-Hop. It surprised me to learn Tiffany and Momma Dee were friends😂. When Tiffany explained to Momma Dee that she had reservations about joining the show for fear of being judged by viewers, Momma Dee responded with a typical Momma Dee response. She replied, “Why do you give a rats ass what other people think?”😂. And with the Tiffany joined the cast. I describe this memoir as an easy, entertaining read. It was funny in parts and wise in others. Two of my fav quotes are: “If you wouldn’t let them into your 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦, don’t let them into your 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥.” and… “I firmly believe in the old adage: “never wrestle with pigs. You both get dirty, and the pig likes it.” The moral of Tiffany’s story is to always remember perfection is overrated. The real flex is embracing peace, connection and purpose💕.
Thanks to the publisher, via Edelweiss, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
I am trash for a Bravo-lebrity book, so even though I didn't watch RHOD when Tiffany Moon was on, I wanted to give this a read. I don't think you should read this one looking for a self-help book- the "joy prescriptions" are short summaries of what she feels she's learned that helps towards happiness at the end of each chapter, but as a memoir this is great. She's been through hardship on her journey, but also is incredibly accomplished and I have a lot of respect for what she's done in her life (I think it would be hard to name a housewife who has done more, even the ones who have quite a few years on Dr. Moon!).
I was in a whirlwind of emotions after reading Dr. Tiffany Moon's book Joy Prescriptions: How I Learned to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace Connection. It is not just a book but a journey that inspires self-realization and finding true joy in life.The story begins with the life of a busy doctor who is constantly completing her long list of tasks. Tiffany is a successful anesthesiologist, a mother, and a wife, but still, she feels something incomplete in her life. Her daily routine is so busy that finding time for herself becomes impossible.The very first chapter of the book gives a realistic portrayal of Tiffany's fatigue and her hectic life. When she returns from her work, she sits in the car for a few minutes to find peace for herself before going inside the house, but this 'few minutes' inadvertently stretches to 30 minutes. This moment felt very true and profound to me because many of us find ourselves in this situation, where we feel we are trying to be perfect in every aspect of life, but in reality, we lose ourselves.This book is a deep journey of Tiffany’s self-analysis, where she recognizes her inner restlessness. She feels that she has lost herself in the race of success. She meets a colleague who advises her to practice self-care. However, Tiffany initially considers it a weakness. According to her, self-care is only for weak people. This mindset is very common, especially for those who are always trying to prove themselves to others. But gradually, she realizes that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.Through her story, Tiffany tries to explain to us that external achievements can never bring inner happiness. She had a great career, a beautiful home, and a loving family, but she still felt empty inside. She always thought that if she worked harder, she would be happy. But it was an endless race. She realized that true happiness is not found in external things but in accepting herself and building a deeper connection with her loved ones.In the next parts of the book, Tiffany details the steps she took to change her life. She challenged the definition of success set by society and chose a new path for herself. She freed herself from the race for perfection and allowed real happiness and contentment to enter her life.Most interestingly, she named this entire process ‘Joy Prescriptions’. She explains that every person has to find their own unique ‘prescriptions’ to be happy in their lives. It is not a magical solution, but a constant effort in which we have to identify our priorities and learn to be kind to ourselves.While reading this book, I saw my reflection many times. How many of us forget ourselves in the pursuit of perfection? We think that if we meet the standards set by society, we will find happiness. But in reality, happiness comes from within, which is this book's biggest lesson.This book by Dr. Tiffany Moon is an inspiring journey of self-discovery. It teaches us that sometimes we should stop from the hustle and bustle of our lives and ask ourselves the question - "Am I really happy?" If the answer is 'no,' then we should dare to take steps toward change.If you, too, are looking for balance and happiness in your life, then this book can prove to be a great guide. It not only inspires but also forces you to think about your life from a new perspective.
Tiffany's story, as shared in "Joy Prescriptions," resonates with the silent struggles many face beneath the veneer of outward success. Defined early on as a "good girl," she meticulously adhered to the expectations laid out for her, excelling academically and professionally, ultimately becoming a thriving anesthesiologist. Yet, behind the accomplishments, a profound sense of emptiness lingered. Her life, dominated by work and the incessant need to please others, left little room for personal fulfillment. She was a prisoner of her own making, shackled by perfectionist standards and an inability to prioritize her own well-being.
"Joy Prescriptions" chronicles Tiffany's transformative journey of self-reclamation. It's a testament to the power of self-discovery and the courage it takes to abandon the roles we've been assigned. Her path to wholeness began with a conscious decision to dismantle the "perfectionist trope" and embark on a quest to rediscover her authentic self. This meant dismantling the rigid structure of her life and embracing vulnerability, allowing herself to explore new avenues of expression and experience.
The narrative unfolds as Tiffany sheds the weight of external expectations and begins to prioritize her own happiness. She embraced creativity and laughter, two elements that had long been suppressed by the relentless pursuit of achievement. In a bold act of self-discovery, she took surprising chances, venturing into uncharted territories like starting a candle business, starring in a reality TV series, attempting stand-up comedy, and becoming a social media influencer. These seemingly disparate activities were, in reality, acts of rebellion against the constraints she had imposed upon herself, allowing her to tap into passions and talents she had long neglected.
"Joy Prescriptions" is more than just a memoir; it's a practical guide for anyone yearning to break free from the suffocating pressure of societal expectations and embrace a life of genuine joy. Through introspective reflections and poignant anecdotes, Tiffany offers a pathway to healing and self-acceptance. She encourages readers to confront their own limiting beliefs and to design a life that is not merely successful by external measures but authentically fulfilling.
This book is a powerful reminder that true happiness lies not in achieving perfection, but in embracing our imperfections and living a life that is true to ourselves. It's a call to action to release ourselves from the constraints of others and embark on our own journeys of self-discovery, ultimately creating a joyful and authentically expressed existence.
Powerful to read the very real and true internal world of a woman who looks like she “has it all”. I think it’s really important for people to see true, vulnerable, authentic feelings and humanity behind what we see on the surface. Everyone is comparing their insides to to someone else’s outside. Where you see the good and the ”must be nice” and “perfection” and “achievements”, so we too think that achieving more, doing more, more accolades, awards will bring happiness.
Were sold a bill of goods as women, and particularly as women physicians that …We’ll be happy when… (insert next achievement here). So we keep sacrificing ourselves for that achievement.
We believe being smart or perfect or looking perfect or doing it perfectly or getting it right will make us feel better.
Tiffany lets us in to hear her real life experience of this world. A foreign born little girl bullied for not speaking English expected to achieve and be perfect, to do all the things.
And did all the things. Only to arrive there to find it was empty.
What do you do when you find there is not pot of gold at the end of the rainbow?
I think the importance of women sharing their REAL stories vs the social media curated stories and capturing things that are literally invisible and unable to be photographed or placed on video for IG, TikTok Tok, or Bravo …it matters. It just matters.
May women be courageous enough to share their real experience and wisdom gained to others.
I was tearful when I heard Tiffany read her excerpt on perfectionism and worth through acheiving. I study a lot of psychology and coaching and am a physician who has treated a lot of mental health issues and supported many medical students and physicians.
This section on achieve more, do more, be more, find your worth and prove your worth through external achievement is SO well written. So well informed. So well stated. It honestly impressed me so much more than I expected. I sent it to many friends and colleagues based on that one passage alone.
As a fellow physician and the daughter of Indian immigrants, Joy Prescriptions by Dr. Tiffany Moon resonated with me on a profound level. This book is more than a memoir- it’s a testament to the unique struggles, sacrifices, and emotional burdens that so many of us, especially women of immigrant families, carry throughout our medical careers.
Dr. Moon’s raw vulnerability in sharing her journey- balancing relentless expectations, cultural pressures, and the isolating weight of perfectionism- felt like reading my own unspoken thoughts on paper. Her honesty about burnout, self-doubt, and the emotional toll of medicine is a refreshing departure from the resilience narrative we’re often forced to embody.
What makes this book truly special is the way it offers both validation and hope. Dr. Moon doesn’t just share her struggles; she provides a roadmap for healing, self-acceptance, and reclaiming the joy that often gets lost in our pursuit of success. She speaks to the guilt we carry, the imposter syndrome that lingers despite our accomplishments, and the complex intersection of cultural expectations and professional ambition.
For any woman in medicine- especially those from immigrant backgrounds- this book is a must-read. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and more importantly, that vulnerability is not weakness, but strength. Joy Prescriptions is the kind of book I wish I had earlier in my career, but I am grateful to have it now.
A beautifully written, deeply personal, and ultimately empowering read.
I picked up Joy Prescriptions at a time when I felt like I was trying to be everything for everyone. Tiffany Moon’s honesty and vulnerability pulled me in right from the start. She shares her story with such warmth and openness that it feels like she’s talking directly to you.
She writes about growing up, moving to the U.S., becoming a doctor, a mom, and navigating all the pressures that come with perfectionism. What struck me most is how real she is about the exhaustion that comes from chasing perfection and how much joy can be found when we finally stop trying to have it all together.
Each chapter ends with a “joy prescription,” and I found those little reflections surprisingly grounding. They’re not about grand life changes or unrealistic habits. They’re small, gentle shifts that help you look at your life with more compassion and grace.
There were a few moments where I felt some of her suggestions might be easier said than done, especially for people with fewer resources or different circumstances. Still, her words come from a genuine place, and her insights about connection, gratitude, and balance feel universal.
If you’ve ever felt stretched thin or tired of trying to be perfect, this book feels like a friend reminding you that you don’t have to do it all to be enough. It’s warm, encouraging, and beautifully human.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Reading Joy Prescription felt like having a heart-to-heart with a really smart, funny friend who just gets it. Tiffany opens up about her life — as a doctor, a mom, an immigrant, and a woman trying to juggle it all — and she does it in a way that’s refreshingly honest and relatable.
She talks about burnout, people-pleasing, and the pressure to be perfect, but not in a preachy or overly clinical way. Instead, she shares her own experiences (the good, the bad, and the vulnerable), and then offers practical tips on how to start putting yourself first without the guilt.
One of the best parts of the book is how real she is. You can tell she’s been through it, and she’s not afraid to talk about things like therapy, saying no, or finding joy in the small stuff. Her writing is funny, heartfelt, and super accessible — even if you're not in medicine or a high-stress career, there's something in here for you.
Joy Prescription is a great read if you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need a reminder that it’s okay — and necessary — to take care of yourself. Tiffany doesn’t promise a magic fix, but she does give you a gentle nudge (and sometimes a kick) toward a more joyful, authentic life.
I’ll admit I went into this one completely blind as I didn’t really know who Dr. Moon was other than recognizing her face from some TV appearances (maybe?). But as a lover of self-help books and memoirs, I thought I would enjoy this book and wanted to give it a chance. I liked how the book was structured with relatable personal stories and “joy prescriptions” at the end. The stories were relatable and had tips to help combat perfectionist tendencies and more. Quick read and would be great as an audiobook.
Sidenote: No single book is going to be the “be all, end all” and solve the struggles of perfectionism, immigrant or eldest daughter syndromes, work/life balance while being a wife or mom, or the guilt trips that come from any of that, so if that’s the bar you’re trying to measure this book up against, of course it’s going to fall flat. That is what therapy is for. But, if you’re looking for a relatable mix of memoir with some advice, or are just a fan of hers, this book will be a great fit.
Thank you to #NetGalley for a review copy of #JoyPrescriptions. All feedback is my unbiased opinion, not paid, and simply for the love of books.
As a wife, mom, and business owner, I’ve always admired Tiffany Moon and found her to be an authentic and inspiring person. Since reading her book and seeing how she has put herself out there, in a vulnerable way, I am even more inspired and I have a new set of goals for myself. Tiffany is courageous and truly a force, with so many accomplishments, yet she realized she needed to make a change in her life. I relate in many ways and I believe she is helping so many others by telling her story. Tiffany has a great, supportive husband, she is a mom of twin girls, a physician and has many more achievements to speak of. Although seemingly having it all, she poignantly describes how there was still a void inside of her. She was lacking meaningful connections and describes how she was living life on the surface and never getting deep enough to form those connections. She further describes the lessons she learned to make those changes and to live life with more joy. I can’t recommend this book enough and believe those who read it will gain in positive ways. I believe Joy Prescriptions is a prescription everyone needs!
I was expecting more "how" from this book. Each chapter is like a memoir with the author sharing her life story. At the end of each chapter are a few chapter notes in the form of practical advice to live a happier life... The more I read it, the more I understood it was probably a very healing experience for the author to write this. She wrote it to share her experiences and help others feel less alone. I feel that for that reason, a lot of women (and people) could probably resonate with this book. However, I didn't find this book to be groundbreaking or profound as far as self-help goes... I rate it 2 stars as I generally will want to refer back to self-help books often, but I can't see myself ever reaching for this one again. I do, however, respect the author's story and appreciate her desire to want to share what she's learned to help others! It wasn't my cup of tea, but it doesn't mean it wouldn't be someone else's!
Dr. Tiffany Moon’s book is a deeply moving journey of truth, healing, and empowerment. From the very first chapter, I was struck by her vulnerability and raw honesty. Her strength and resilience shine through every page, and yet it’s her compassion and empathy that left the biggest mark on me. This book is filled not only with the lessons she has learned but with the joy she so generously offers to others.
After just one chapter, I found the courage to reconnect with my mother, someone I hadn’t spoken to in a few months. Dr. Moon’s words at the end of just chapter 1, helped me “let go of the past, honor my truth, but respect others’ interpretations.” My mom was overjoyed I took the step to reconnect, and I feel so much more peace and joy too.
I couldn’t put the book down and you won’t be able to either. It’s not just a book you read, it’s one you feel. I’m so grateful Dr. Moon wrote Joy Prescriptions!
Tiffany Moon’s Joy Prescriptions is a refreshingly honest and deeply personal exploration of what it really means to live with purpose and pleasure. This isn’t a surface-level “choose happiness” book—it’s a raw and often funny account of unlearning perfectionism, finding your voice, and giving yourself permission to live boldly.
Tiffany’s writing feels like a conversation with someone who truly gets it—the exhaustion, the people-pleasing, the pressure to keep up appearances. But rather than offering empty platitudes, she shares real moments of growth, risk-taking, and rediscovery. Her journey from burnout to building a life filled with creativity, courage, and humor is both inspiring and incredibly grounding.
I walked away from this book feeling lighter, braver, and reminded that joy isn’t something you earn—it’s something you’re allowed to claim. This book is a keeper, and one I’ll be recommending to every friend who feels like they’re running on empty.
I did not know about Tiffany Moon until I came across her Instagram page a year ago. Her funny non serious content was good entertainment and her electric personality really shows in this book as well. Her life is way more than just an Asian American becoming a doctor. I finished this book in one sitting and was pleasantly surprised at all the JOY I had in doing so. I found Joy Prescriptions to be more of a life memoir than a self help book, but the tips at the end of each chapter were still fun to read. It shows that even someone with as much accomplishments as her can have some negatives feeling and even regrets. Chasing the society’s standards of perfection and success does not necessary end in happiness. I think this is a great book to ready whether you are already a fan of hers or you’re just curious!
Tiffany writes with so much vulnerability and honesty—it’s like she’s saying out loud what so many women think but are afraid to admit.
As a coach for women doctors, I’m constantly reminding my clients that no one actually has it all together, and trying to seem like we do is part of what makes us so unfulfilled and unhappy.
When we can all stop pretending to have it all together and just be human is when we can start to find more joy—and this book really drives that message home.
Her stories—especially about her complicated childhood—are raw, honest, and deeply relatable.
I admire her so much for being willing to share what so many of us struggle with and hide because we’re trying to live up to some impossible version of who we think we should be. This book is a gift. Read it or give it to a woman friend you love and admire asap!
Joy Prescriptions by Dr. Tiffany Moon is just amazing and y’all—it’s like a warm hug and a pep talk from your wisest, sassiest friend all in one. Dr Tiffany doesn’t just share insights; she shares herself. Her vulnerability, humor, and honesty leap off the pages and wrap around you like your favorite cozy blanket. She reminds us that joy isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we choose and create, even in the messy middle of life. As someone who believes deeply in intentional living and showing up authentically, this book hit home in all the best ways. It’s a prescription for joy—but also for grace, boundaries, and fierce self-love. If your soul needs a little CPR and your calendar needs a little “me time,” this book belongs in your hands. Thank you, Dr. Tiffany, for being brave enough to share your truth—and for reminding us to chase joy like it’s our full-time job.
One of my guilty pleasures is absolutely The Real Housewives. Though it was short lived, I did enjoy The Real Housewives of Dallas, which is where I was first introduced to Dr. Moon. She’s an anesthesiologist, and was presented as a bit of an outsider to the rest of the cast. I really enjoyed her “character” on the show, and she always seemed to have an interesting history. This book is a bit of a mix of a memoir of her life, but also a motivational read to be your best self. I knew that she was a very intelligent woman, pushed hard by her Asian parents to be the best and accomplish all she could. However, reading her story in her own words was so interesting. Each chapter starts with a photo of Tiffany from her past, and ends with her Joy Prescription. Overall, a great read. And a little different from your typical celebrity memoir. Thank you so much to Legacy Lit Books for my copy!
I've been on a memoir kick lately, and after reading Scheana Shay's debut, I thought I would pick up another Bravoleb's off my shelf. Well, needless to say Dr. Tiffany Moon is SO much more than a "Bravoleb". Her story of immigrating from China and flying solo at age 6, being greeted by parents she barely remembered, followed by her childhood days in the US just tore at my heartstrings. No wonder she is such a strong, smart, amazing woman.
I watched a couple episodes of her on RHOD yearsss ago, but now need to go back and rewatch.
Every chapter in "Joy prescriptions" offers some streamlined advice for any point in life. I really enjoyed reading this and took a lot away.
Thank you to the publisher for my gifted copy - out now!
I first learned about Tiffany Moon from the Real Housewives of Dallas. She instantly became one of my favorites, I admired that she was brilliantly smart, had a meaningful career, loving family and really down to earth. When I saw she had written a book, I was excited to learn more about her life. Wow, her childhood moved so quickly! Her educational success expedited her journey ultimately leading her to become an anesthesiologist. I appreciated the structure of this book, concluding each chapter with a "prescription" of what she learned from her experience and what she recommends to others and her future self.
First- I am an avid Real Housewives watcher and already a fan of Dr. Tiffany Moon, so an easy sell! However, this book was a three star read for me. Moon takes what is essentially a biography and tries to turn it into a self-help book. While she is an amazing doctor, she is a not a psychologist, so her end of chapter insights feel excessively simple. For example: Joy Prescriptions- "Make Connections in Real Life!" "Follow Your Own Instincts!" "Grow Together in Your Relationship!" Obviously.
If they were to remove the forced tips and sell this as a biography of a woman shedding the expectations and perfectionism of her youth while embracing her own identity, it would be a 4.5 star read. Still love Dr. Moon and the path she is helping pave for working moms.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced copy!
As someone lucky enough to call Dr. Tiffany Moon a friend, I knew Joy Prescriptions would be powerful—but I was still blown away. This book is raw, honest, and so authentically Tiffany. She peels back the layers of a high-achieving life to reveal the toll it can take—and how she fought her way back to joy. Her “prescriptions” at the end of each chapter are thoughtful and practical, perfect for readers looking for more than inspiration—they offer direction. Whether you’re a fan, a fellow perfectionist, or simply seeking more meaning in your life, this book will move you. Dr. Kayla Nebelsick
Dr. Tiffany Moon shares her story with honesty, humor, and heart, making it easy to connect with her journey—especially if you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism or felt overwhelmed by the pressures of work and life.
Her experiences as a physician, mother, and public figure are told with real vulnerability, and she manages to be both insightful and relatable throughout.
The short, practical tips at the end of each chapter were a nice surprise—simple, useful reminders that joy doesn’t have to come from big moments, but from small, intentional choices.
This book is a thoughtful, down-to-earth look at what it means to let go of perfection and make space for JOY!!
Dr. Moon is a gem of a person, a wonderful mother, and highly skilled physician. Her book not only reflects that, but it shows a vulnerable side that we all can relate to. She hits the nail on the head throughout the book about the pursuit of perfectionism and how it shapes our personal and professional lives. I related to so many of her stories in ways I hadn’t expected. What I really loved about the book is the actionable steps she lays out at the end of each chapter. I feel seen & heard by her book but also more confident to tackle my perfectionist issues. THANK YOU, Dr. Moon for a life-changing book and sharing you story!
the actual memoir parts are good - the self help portions come as a disappointing reminder that dr moon doesn't actually defy the shallow expectations of real housewives (our queens love to monetize therapy talk in a book <3). the framing of the book around 'joy prescriptions' is cute in theory, but by the end of each of her anecdotes, im not actually convinced she's applied what she's preaching, or at the very least, she doesn't cap her stories with actual examples of what she changed and how that affected her for the better. high key kind of sounds like she's still chasing perfection
I picked up Joy Prescriptions at the library because I liked the cover. The beginning was engaging—the author’s childhood struggles and sibling dynamics were interesting and felt real. But once the book moved into “life lessons,” they came across as shallow and surface-level. I also found it questionable that, after sharing how painful it was to grow up with absent parents, she chose the same path by prioritizing her career over her kids. The ending was even more disappointing, focusing on a TV show I’ve never watched, and I ended up skimming the last pages just to finish. Overall, it started strong but really fell flat.