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You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, and Love
Things have changed. Have you seen it?
The way that we’ve done things for centuries has been unsettled and unseated. We’re living in a new normal. And while on the surface many of these changes look like the next best thing, there’s actually a complex and fragile web of lies holding it all together:
You are what you do
You are what you experience
You are who you know
You are what you know
You are what you own
You are who you raise
You are your past
In You Are What You Do, author and pastor Daniel Im considers these seven lies and the context that causes them to flourish. Through personable stories, research, and pastoral insight, Daniel will show you how to recognize these everyday lies in your life, so that you can discover the truth on the other side. The truth that leads to freedom. The truth that moves you from surviving to thriving. The truth that will unlock a life of purpose, adventure, meaning, and destiny.
The way that we’ve done things for centuries has been unsettled and unseated. We’re living in a new normal. And while on the surface many of these changes look like the next best thing, there’s actually a complex and fragile web of lies holding it all together:
You are what you do
You are what you experience
You are who you know
You are what you know
You are what you own
You are who you raise
You are your past
In You Are What You Do, author and pastor Daniel Im considers these seven lies and the context that causes them to flourish. Through personable stories, research, and pastoral insight, Daniel will show you how to recognize these everyday lies in your life, so that you can discover the truth on the other side. The truth that leads to freedom. The truth that moves you from surviving to thriving. The truth that will unlock a life of purpose, adventure, meaning, and destiny.
- GenresChristian
208 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2020
About the author
Daniel Im
6 books45 followersDaniel Im is a pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. He is the Lead Pastor of Beulah Alliance Church in Edmonton, Alberta. His latest book is The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World (NavPress 2024). He has also written No Silver Bullets: Five Small Shifts that will Transform Your Ministry (B&H Books 2017), Planting Missional Churches: Your Guide to Starting Churches that Multiply (2nd Ed) (B&H Academic, 2016), and You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, and Love (B&H Books 2020).
He has an M.A. in Global Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary, and has served and pastored in church plants and multisite churches ranging from 100 people to 50,000 people in Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Korea, Edmonton, and Nashville.
His podcasts have been downloaded over 3 million times, and he currently co-hosts the IMbetween Podcast with his wife, Christina, where they help you discover the tools to build a marriage and family you love. Together, they serve as speakers for FamilyLife Canada’s Weekend Getaway Marriage Conference. Daniel also serves as a Bible teacher for 100 Huntley Street, Canada’s longest running daily television show.
He has been married to his wife, Christina, since 2006 and they have three children. For more information, visit danielim.com and follow him on social media @danielsangi.
He has an M.A. in Global Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary, and has served and pastored in church plants and multisite churches ranging from 100 people to 50,000 people in Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Korea, Edmonton, and Nashville.
His podcasts have been downloaded over 3 million times, and he currently co-hosts the IMbetween Podcast with his wife, Christina, where they help you discover the tools to build a marriage and family you love. Together, they serve as speakers for FamilyLife Canada’s Weekend Getaway Marriage Conference. Daniel also serves as a Bible teacher for 100 Huntley Street, Canada’s longest running daily television show.
He has been married to his wife, Christina, since 2006 and they have three children. For more information, visit danielim.com and follow him on social media @danielsangi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 10, 2020
Before I get my review started, I must clarify that the full title of this book is You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies About Work, Life, & Love. It was written by Daniel Im, a speaker, teacher, consultant, and coach. I am most familiar with his 5 Leadership Questions podcast, a part of the Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network.
The Gig Economy
The purpose of this book is to expose six lies that are particular to those espoused by the Gig Economy. The Gig Economy is a relatively new term that has become the new normal. It involves gigging, freelancing, contracting, side hustling, and moonlighting. It is a work ethic that finds its footing in the American Dream.
In just over 200 pages, Im tackles these six lies: (1) You are what you do, (2) You are what you experience, (3) You are who you know, (4) You are what you know, (5) You are what you own, (6) You are who you raise, and (7) You are your past. Im is an excellent storyteller, and he often uses illustrations from his own life not to show himself as the hero, but as one who has learned from his mistakes.
Wisdom and Profundity
This book does not beat you over the head with the Bible. Im often takes us to King Solomon and encourages us to listen to his words of wisdom. And he does not present Jesus as a moral teacher, but he calls us to consider that Jesus is the only way we can truly live and have life abundantly.
The book often shows snippets of profundity. For instance, in Chapter 6: It’s Not About You, Im combats the lie “You Are Who You Raise” and says that we need to start with forgiveness if our parents raised us in a way where they unconsciously wronged us. He points us to Matthew 11:28-30 which says that Jesus will take our heavy burdens and make them light.
Turn Toward Truth
I was given a sobering wake-up call by reading this book. It spoke to me as a working man, a son, a husband, and a father. I am challenged to rethink and restructure my priorities. And I am driven to turn away from the lies of the world and run toward Truth.
I was provided a free copy of You Are What You Do but was not required to write a positive review.
The Gig Economy
The purpose of this book is to expose six lies that are particular to those espoused by the Gig Economy. The Gig Economy is a relatively new term that has become the new normal. It involves gigging, freelancing, contracting, side hustling, and moonlighting. It is a work ethic that finds its footing in the American Dream.
In just over 200 pages, Im tackles these six lies: (1) You are what you do, (2) You are what you experience, (3) You are who you know, (4) You are what you know, (5) You are what you own, (6) You are who you raise, and (7) You are your past. Im is an excellent storyteller, and he often uses illustrations from his own life not to show himself as the hero, but as one who has learned from his mistakes.
Wisdom and Profundity
This book does not beat you over the head with the Bible. Im often takes us to King Solomon and encourages us to listen to his words of wisdom. And he does not present Jesus as a moral teacher, but he calls us to consider that Jesus is the only way we can truly live and have life abundantly.
The book often shows snippets of profundity. For instance, in Chapter 6: It’s Not About You, Im combats the lie “You Are Who You Raise” and says that we need to start with forgiveness if our parents raised us in a way where they unconsciously wronged us. He points us to Matthew 11:28-30 which says that Jesus will take our heavy burdens and make them light.
Turn Toward Truth
I was given a sobering wake-up call by reading this book. It spoke to me as a working man, a son, a husband, and a father. I am challenged to rethink and restructure my priorities. And I am driven to turn away from the lies of the world and run toward Truth.
I was provided a free copy of You Are What You Do but was not required to write a positive review.
October 2, 2020
Illustrated from Life Experience
Daniel Im’s book provides the reader with a perspective on life as it is now. As a person of the boomer generation there are many elements of the current generations that I have a difficult time understanding. The lies as described in this book are well illustrated and presented in a way that make them readily understood. It is an easy read and I would recommend it to anyone wanting a better understanding of the issues being faced by this current generation.
Daniel Im’s book provides the reader with a perspective on life as it is now. As a person of the boomer generation there are many elements of the current generations that I have a difficult time understanding. The lies as described in this book are well illustrated and presented in a way that make them readily understood. It is an easy read and I would recommend it to anyone wanting a better understanding of the issues being faced by this current generation.
February 4, 2020
Daniel Im's latest book, You Are What You Do, shines a light on seven lies that have become deeply embedded into our culture. It surprised me to realize the extent to which these lies influence my daily living and hijack my thought process and decision-making.
The seven lies are:
You are what you do.
You are what you experience.
You are who you know.
You are what you know.
You are what you own.
You are who you raise.
You are your past.
Daniel lays out each lie and how it permeates our daily lives through a myriad of messages we receive from the world. Lie #1: "You are what you do" stood out for me the most because my to-do list is never done and I take a strange pride in always being "productive". In the first chapter, Daniel hooked me with this statement: "You are not what you do. Doing does not result in done. It only leads to more doing. In fact, there is no badge of honor in a life of doing - only exhaustion and despair." (p.25). Reading this was very convicting and my natural response was wondering where to go from there. I am thankful the author goes beyond merely raising our awareness of these lies. And he doesn't just give us another to-do list or some self-help steps, instead he points us to Jesus: "Freedom cannot be found in anyone else or through anything else - including and especially through these lies - because it's only through Jesus that you can experience true freedom." (p. 173) Through Scripture, insight, and his own personal experience, Daniel shares a message that is for everyone - we can all identify these lies in our own lives and overcome them with God's Truth. I found this book to be incredibly thought-provoking and highly recommend giving it your time.
The seven lies are:
You are what you do.
You are what you experience.
You are who you know.
You are what you know.
You are what you own.
You are who you raise.
You are your past.
Daniel lays out each lie and how it permeates our daily lives through a myriad of messages we receive from the world. Lie #1: "You are what you do" stood out for me the most because my to-do list is never done and I take a strange pride in always being "productive". In the first chapter, Daniel hooked me with this statement: "You are not what you do. Doing does not result in done. It only leads to more doing. In fact, there is no badge of honor in a life of doing - only exhaustion and despair." (p.25). Reading this was very convicting and my natural response was wondering where to go from there. I am thankful the author goes beyond merely raising our awareness of these lies. And he doesn't just give us another to-do list or some self-help steps, instead he points us to Jesus: "Freedom cannot be found in anyone else or through anything else - including and especially through these lies - because it's only through Jesus that you can experience true freedom." (p. 173) Through Scripture, insight, and his own personal experience, Daniel shares a message that is for everyone - we can all identify these lies in our own lives and overcome them with God's Truth. I found this book to be incredibly thought-provoking and highly recommend giving it your time.
September 12, 2021
Im is a great writer with a clear, distinct voice. His colloquial tone made this book pleasant and easy to read.
Also, the ultimate conclusion of the book - that our identity is found in Jesus - is an important message. Unfortunately, this message is nearly entirely housed at the end of the last chapter.
Leading up to the final chapter is a series of cheap shots at isolated aspects of modern culture, like dating apps. It was unclear why a number of anecdotes were included to support the conclusions reached by the author in each chapter. The weak logical structure at the chapter level could have benefitted from a more robust editing process.
Finally, readers who, like me, do not have social media platforms or participate in the gig economy will have a tough time connecting with this book.
Also, the ultimate conclusion of the book - that our identity is found in Jesus - is an important message. Unfortunately, this message is nearly entirely housed at the end of the last chapter.
Leading up to the final chapter is a series of cheap shots at isolated aspects of modern culture, like dating apps. It was unclear why a number of anecdotes were included to support the conclusions reached by the author in each chapter. The weak logical structure at the chapter level could have benefitted from a more robust editing process.
Finally, readers who, like me, do not have social media platforms or participate in the gig economy will have a tough time connecting with this book.
February 22, 2020
Great book about escaping the vicious cycle of performance-oriented Christian living
In his new book, “You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, & Love,” Daniel Im exposes the seven lies we can often buy into, to either get ahead in life, and measure our worth to ourselves, and to God.
Published by B&H Publishing, Im uses as a framework the fairly new world of “gigging,” a.k.a., freelancing, contracting, and side hustling, which is one way to attain personal and financial independence, and the American Dream – or at least that’s what the world want us to believe.
In his 208-page book, Im exposes these seven lies (page 8): 1. You are what you do; 2. You are what you experience; 3. You are who you know; 4. You are what you know; 5. You are what you own; 6. You are who you raise; and 7. You are your past.
The truth is, these lies can end up conforming us to this world – often without us even knowing it – if we aren’t watchful (and if we let them), many times preventing us from renewing our minds to what God’s Word says about us, and far more importantly, about the Lord.
One of the strongest points Im makes is in exposing lie number 3: We are who we know: That people can shape us (page 63) if we aren’t careful.
“This lie that you are who you know is a fog,” she writes (page 64). “It’s everywhere and elusive. You see it all around you, you can feel the coolness of it, and you see others enwrapped in it, but when you try to grab it, you can’t – it just dissipates.
“And a life built on this lie doesn’t lead to the thing it promises: greater levels of meaningful connection with others. Ironically, it actually produces the exact opposite: isolation.”
The only qualm I have with the book is its lack of scriptural references and biblical examples of people in both the Old and New Testaments, who had the same issues as well: Moses, Abraham, Solomon, David, etc.; the twelve apostles (especially Peter and Thomas); and yes, even Paul.
Overall, Im’s book is for any believer who is caught in the vicious and endless cycle of performing, and feeling they have to do more to be more – especially to more people (often to people who don’t really care about us at all). It is well-written, timely, and has a message for all ages. I highly recommend it.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received a copy of this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2020 by Doug S., M.A.
In his new book, “You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, & Love,” Daniel Im exposes the seven lies we can often buy into, to either get ahead in life, and measure our worth to ourselves, and to God.
Published by B&H Publishing, Im uses as a framework the fairly new world of “gigging,” a.k.a., freelancing, contracting, and side hustling, which is one way to attain personal and financial independence, and the American Dream – or at least that’s what the world want us to believe.
In his 208-page book, Im exposes these seven lies (page 8): 1. You are what you do; 2. You are what you experience; 3. You are who you know; 4. You are what you know; 5. You are what you own; 6. You are who you raise; and 7. You are your past.
The truth is, these lies can end up conforming us to this world – often without us even knowing it – if we aren’t watchful (and if we let them), many times preventing us from renewing our minds to what God’s Word says about us, and far more importantly, about the Lord.
One of the strongest points Im makes is in exposing lie number 3: We are who we know: That people can shape us (page 63) if we aren’t careful.
“This lie that you are who you know is a fog,” she writes (page 64). “It’s everywhere and elusive. You see it all around you, you can feel the coolness of it, and you see others enwrapped in it, but when you try to grab it, you can’t – it just dissipates.
“And a life built on this lie doesn’t lead to the thing it promises: greater levels of meaningful connection with others. Ironically, it actually produces the exact opposite: isolation.”
The only qualm I have with the book is its lack of scriptural references and biblical examples of people in both the Old and New Testaments, who had the same issues as well: Moses, Abraham, Solomon, David, etc.; the twelve apostles (especially Peter and Thomas); and yes, even Paul.
Overall, Im’s book is for any believer who is caught in the vicious and endless cycle of performing, and feeling they have to do more to be more – especially to more people (often to people who don’t really care about us at all). It is well-written, timely, and has a message for all ages. I highly recommend it.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received a copy of this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2020 by Doug S., M.A.
December 23, 2020
I was honored to read Daniel Im's book earlier this year -- and find it even more refreshing a book as 2020 draws to a close. In a year where so many lies, so much news, so many things to believe, have filled our ears, eyes, an minds, You Are What You Do calls us back to core truths we all need to hear.
Daniel writes in such a personal, honest, and compelling way -- it's refreshing to read this in as high-capacity a leader as he is. He shares his deep areas of distrust, doubt, and fear, which are things that everyone wrestles with. And rather than a feel-good, "do it better" message or "overcome the lies," the book draws readers deeper and deeper into Jesus' truth, and the identity and promises he gives us -- those alone combat the lies: you are NOT the things the lies say you are; instead, here's who you are.
The book's conclusion reminds me of this old puritan sermon, "The Expulsive Power of the New Affection" (Chalmers): it's not enough to realize the lie, and it's nearly impossible to "kick it out of our head." Instead, any belief needs to be replaced; only that will expel the old belief. Lies will stay until truth kicks it out; false worship must be replaced by something truer; our identity/value/etc. cannot be removed -- we'll always find it somewhere. Rather, it must be replaced by a better identity: in Christ; higher values: as defined by God; etc.
For anyone facing self-doubt, insecurity, accusations (present or past), wounds, or hurt, this is a great book to help weed through such common lies, and replace them with God's truth. I highly recommend it.
Daniel writes in such a personal, honest, and compelling way -- it's refreshing to read this in as high-capacity a leader as he is. He shares his deep areas of distrust, doubt, and fear, which are things that everyone wrestles with. And rather than a feel-good, "do it better" message or "overcome the lies," the book draws readers deeper and deeper into Jesus' truth, and the identity and promises he gives us -- those alone combat the lies: you are NOT the things the lies say you are; instead, here's who you are.
The book's conclusion reminds me of this old puritan sermon, "The Expulsive Power of the New Affection" (Chalmers): it's not enough to realize the lie, and it's nearly impossible to "kick it out of our head." Instead, any belief needs to be replaced; only that will expel the old belief. Lies will stay until truth kicks it out; false worship must be replaced by something truer; our identity/value/etc. cannot be removed -- we'll always find it somewhere. Rather, it must be replaced by a better identity: in Christ; higher values: as defined by God; etc.
For anyone facing self-doubt, insecurity, accusations (present or past), wounds, or hurt, this is a great book to help weed through such common lies, and replace them with God's truth. I highly recommend it.
April 6, 2020
The book has a great concept in that it covers seven common cultural perspectives. This quote below summarizes the main point:
What you do, what you experience, who you know, what you know, what you own, who you raise, and your past all hold a critical role in the way that you see yourself, but they are not the way to see yourself because they all come up short. They’re incomplete precisely because they’re half-truths. This is why you can’t let any of these lies become the primary lens through which you view yourself—especially the lie that you are your past, because it holds the potential to disable or destroy your future.
The problem is that the author ties these concepts to the gig work culture when they apply to a much larger paradigm -- basically the social values for the United States at large. The author could provide more biblical support since each chapter contains a lot of anecdotal evidence and statistics and a short biblical reference near the conclusion of the chapter. There is so much more that could be explored with these concepts, but the book is too shallow -- both in biblical analysis and the overall depth of analysis. In its current state, this book would be a great sermon series or extended blog post. Hopefully, other Christian authors can expound more on this topic.
What you do, what you experience, who you know, what you know, what you own, who you raise, and your past all hold a critical role in the way that you see yourself, but they are not the way to see yourself because they all come up short. They’re incomplete precisely because they’re half-truths. This is why you can’t let any of these lies become the primary lens through which you view yourself—especially the lie that you are your past, because it holds the potential to disable or destroy your future.
The problem is that the author ties these concepts to the gig work culture when they apply to a much larger paradigm -- basically the social values for the United States at large. The author could provide more biblical support since each chapter contains a lot of anecdotal evidence and statistics and a short biblical reference near the conclusion of the chapter. There is so much more that could be explored with these concepts, but the book is too shallow -- both in biblical analysis and the overall depth of analysis. In its current state, this book would be a great sermon series or extended blog post. Hopefully, other Christian authors can expound more on this topic.
August 3, 2020
I read the book in 2 days. It's an easy read packed with valuable content and golden nuggets. Daniel really covers the 7 major lies about leadership and life. With the rise of social media and infatuation and idolatry on subscribers followers and likes, this book is essential in bringing you back to reality and rescuing you from the pit of fame and glory that currently everyone is trying to achieve.
I appreciate Daniel's humility and unashamed confession of his life and past mistakes in chapter 7. As a fellow Korean, this book is comforting to read since our culture is very private about our mistakes and weaknesses.
Guaranteed, there is at least 1 chapter that you will relate with and that describes specifically what you struggle with in life. If you reflect deeply and are humble enough, I'm sure there will be more chapters that you relate to.
I appreciate Daniel's humility and unashamed confession of his life and past mistakes in chapter 7. As a fellow Korean, this book is comforting to read since our culture is very private about our mistakes and weaknesses.
Guaranteed, there is at least 1 chapter that you will relate with and that describes specifically what you struggle with in life. If you reflect deeply and are humble enough, I'm sure there will be more chapters that you relate to.
March 28, 2020
You Are What You Do: and Six Other Lies About Work, Life, & Love by Daniel Im (B&H, 2020) might die an unfortunate death simply because of its release date. It's a book about gig economy and all the lies we but into from work. Thanks to a global pandemic, more people are out of work than any living person has ever experienced, and the gig economy has imploded. We're all quarantined at home. Musicians, Uber drivers, and hundreds of other side jobs have been sidelined.
But for a moment, let's imagine there is no coronavirus.
Dainel Im filled his book full of examples that do an excellent job expressing the lies we believe. There's no doubt Im has identified and explained the problem (well, the pre-pandemic problem anyway). However, he did such a good job expressing the problem, his effort to point to the solution came up lacking. Each chapter includes some discussion about the answer, as does the final chapter. Yet, we all know and feel the problem. Instead, Im could have spent half the pages on the issue and tapped into what we already know. Then, with the remaining available pages, he could have given us more of what we're missing--the answer.
Don't get me wrong, Im expressed and identified the lies with laser precision. It's impossible to miss them after reading his book. But there's a bigger problem. We're in a pandemic, and the economy has the potential to look very different very soon. Most of his examples are irrelevant now. Much of the nation is sitting in their homes, with their family, learning all the things Im suggested, only they are in the school of a new reality.
I read the book just as the first cases were cropping up in the US. It made sense. It was spot on. But as I'm finally getting around to write a review, I can't think about how disconnected the book may now be. That's unfortunate on many levels. But who could have predicted such a thing?
But for a moment, let's imagine there is no coronavirus.
Dainel Im filled his book full of examples that do an excellent job expressing the lies we believe. There's no doubt Im has identified and explained the problem (well, the pre-pandemic problem anyway). However, he did such a good job expressing the problem, his effort to point to the solution came up lacking. Each chapter includes some discussion about the answer, as does the final chapter. Yet, we all know and feel the problem. Instead, Im could have spent half the pages on the issue and tapped into what we already know. Then, with the remaining available pages, he could have given us more of what we're missing--the answer.
Don't get me wrong, Im expressed and identified the lies with laser precision. It's impossible to miss them after reading his book. But there's a bigger problem. We're in a pandemic, and the economy has the potential to look very different very soon. Most of his examples are irrelevant now. Much of the nation is sitting in their homes, with their family, learning all the things Im suggested, only they are in the school of a new reality.
I read the book just as the first cases were cropping up in the US. It made sense. It was spot on. But as I'm finally getting around to write a review, I can't think about how disconnected the book may now be. That's unfortunate on many levels. But who could have predicted such a thing?
December 10, 2020
This book has never been more applicable than right now. Daniel Im candidly uses examples from his own life and struggles with the 7 lies he explores and debunks, along with other real life and historical examples to walk the reader through where that lie might exist in their own life and how to reframe our thought processes to find freedom through Jesus from these falsehoods that we let define us. This is a thoughtful but easy read that most readers will be able to connect with and find application in their lives. Highly recommend this read for both enrichment of your own ability to find freedom in your life as well as to support those around you in tearing down the hold of those lies in their lives as well. Fantastic and so very relevant for all ages and stages of life!!!
December 11, 2020
“Y𝚘𝚞 A𝚛𝚎 W𝚑𝚊𝚝 Y𝚘𝚞 D𝚘 (𝚊𝚗𝚍 S𝚒𝚡 O𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 L𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 W𝚘𝚛𝚔, L𝚒𝚏𝚎, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 L𝚘𝚟𝚎)”⠀ written by Daniel Im is a must read!! After I received it in the mail, I couldn’t put it down. The lies presented in the book are culturally relevant and easy to fall into. However, Daniel reminds us that our identity is found solely in Jesus, the one who has already accomplished it all. We are who God says we are. ⠀
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Be sure to grab a copy for yourself and a friend. ⠀
—————⠀
“The only path to contentment is through Jesus, since Jesus has already given and promised us everything we need- even though there’s nothing we’ve done or can ever do to deserve it.” ⠀
- Daniel Im, You Are What You Do
⠀
Be sure to grab a copy for yourself and a friend. ⠀
—————⠀
“The only path to contentment is through Jesus, since Jesus has already given and promised us everything we need- even though there’s nothing we’ve done or can ever do to deserve it.” ⠀
- Daniel Im, You Are What You Do
February 15, 2020
Presenting truth while shattering lies
Daniel Im does an incredible job of unpacking the lies we so often tell ourselves to get through this life. Daniel shares personal examples, practical advice and real world examples to work through why we believe the lies and how we can move beyond them.
I was inspired by the authors vulnerability and appreciated how each chapter was summed up with practical ways to move forward into a better way of living.
I know that this book will inspire readers and bring hope to a great many people.
Daniel Im does an incredible job of unpacking the lies we so often tell ourselves to get through this life. Daniel shares personal examples, practical advice and real world examples to work through why we believe the lies and how we can move beyond them.
I was inspired by the authors vulnerability and appreciated how each chapter was summed up with practical ways to move forward into a better way of living.
I know that this book will inspire readers and bring hope to a great many people.
March 4, 2020
This book will challenge and encourage you! Daniel hits the nail on the head where he explains,
“You are not what you do and you are not what you experience.”
The gig economy have inserted this lie that has effected the view of who we are and even our view towards God. All of these lies have unintended consequences that has affected us as followers of Christ.
Whether you’re a new Christian or one who has been seasoned in the faith, this book is a must read. This book will open your eyes to biblical truths that will guide you on the journey as faithful followers in Christ.
“You are not what you do and you are not what you experience.”
The gig economy have inserted this lie that has effected the view of who we are and even our view towards God. All of these lies have unintended consequences that has affected us as followers of Christ.
Whether you’re a new Christian or one who has been seasoned in the faith, this book is a must read. This book will open your eyes to biblical truths that will guide you on the journey as faithful followers in Christ.
September 14, 2022
Liked the overall theme of the book and content was good. Essentially ever lie can be traced back to a desire for control and the different lies we hide behind to find meaning, value, and self worth instead of looking to God. Found some chapters to be a little bit of a rabbit trail from the main overall topic and didn’t quite connect for me. Some examples for a specific lie seemed to be a stretch or not completely resolve. But regardless not a bad read. Have 3 stars because 1. It was a good read 2. Nothing in there would make me want to go back for reference or read again and 3. It wouldn’t be first choice to recommend to others.
December 11, 2020
Daniel Im has again knocked it out of the park. In this book, he challenges the reader to not believe the lie that you are what you do and thus continually spiraling into a place we weren't meant to be. Daniel exposes how we identify ourselves through career and other areas like our past and what we own. He practically points the reader to understand their true identity and worth in a life where the world will tell us its in many other areas.
May 19, 2020
This book is exactly what we need right now! Since Covid-19, we've been faced with the reality of change, devastation, and chaos. We can't be people of "doing". We have to figure out who we are because of our "being". If you're looking for a book that will encourage you and give you a sense of peace and hope right now, then make sure you check this one out!
August 5, 2022
No new concept. No new ideas. Just trust in Jesus and you will find yourself. So don’t believe the seven lies he points out to you, just believe in Jesus.
If that is all you need, you don’t need this book.
If you need more than that, you won’t get anything useful from this book. Feel very cheated that was the only conclusion he has for the reader.
If that is all you need, you don’t need this book.
If you need more than that, you won’t get anything useful from this book. Feel very cheated that was the only conclusion he has for the reader.
February 14, 2020
“What do you do?” How many times in our lives have we been asked that question, or asked it of someone else. When we were children, we were asked what we wanted to do when we grow up. We often see what we do, know, experience, and own as the definition of who we are, but as Daniel Im stresses in his book You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies About Work, Life, & Love, that could not be further from the truth.
Through research and personal stories, Im breaks down seven lies that we often tell ourselves, and help us to recognize how these lies effect our own lives.
You are what you do.
You are what you experience.
You are who you know.
You are what you know.
You are what you own.
You are who you raise.
You are your past.
He then guides us towards the truth, which is that we are loved, chosen, redeemed, and set free by God. “Freedom cannot be found in anyone else or through anything else – including and especially through these lies – because it’s only through Jesus that you can experience true freedom…When you decide to lay down these seven lies – and any other foundation you have been building your life on – and instead decide to follow Jesus, your status will change from slave to child…From being defined by what you do, what you experience, who you know, what you know, what you own, who you raise, and your past, to being defined by what Jesus has done for you.”
This book is very relevant to the world that we live in today. I cannot think of anyone who would not benefit from this message. We can all live a life of purpose in Jesus, instead of obsessing about what we do and experience, and trying to make our lives look perfect on social media. Daniel Im will show you how in this worthwhile guidebook.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, B & H Publishing, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Through research and personal stories, Im breaks down seven lies that we often tell ourselves, and help us to recognize how these lies effect our own lives.
You are what you do.
You are what you experience.
You are who you know.
You are what you know.
You are what you own.
You are who you raise.
You are your past.
He then guides us towards the truth, which is that we are loved, chosen, redeemed, and set free by God. “Freedom cannot be found in anyone else or through anything else – including and especially through these lies – because it’s only through Jesus that you can experience true freedom…When you decide to lay down these seven lies – and any other foundation you have been building your life on – and instead decide to follow Jesus, your status will change from slave to child…From being defined by what you do, what you experience, who you know, what you know, what you own, who you raise, and your past, to being defined by what Jesus has done for you.”
This book is very relevant to the world that we live in today. I cannot think of anyone who would not benefit from this message. We can all live a life of purpose in Jesus, instead of obsessing about what we do and experience, and trying to make our lives look perfect on social media. Daniel Im will show you how in this worthwhile guidebook.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, B & H Publishing, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2020
We all listen to the urban legends and treat them as gospel. Some things have become such common knowledge in our culture, that to doubt them could be considered heresy. Unfortunately not everything we read about or hear about is true. Some things are ‘close but not quite’, and other things are downright lies. But if we hear something often enough it takes on the veil of truth.
These lies spill over into all aspects of our life. And some of them are more believable than others. Daniel Im has written a book that exposes several of these lies. (You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies About Work, Life and Love, B&H publishing, 2020)
It’s bad enough when other people lie to us, intentionally or not, but it’s even worse when we tell ourselves those lies, and repeat them so often that they become truth. We believe our lies and live our lives accordingly. Unfortunately, when we’re chasing after the wrong things, we often forget God and the part that He should be playing in our lives. We lust after possessions and status, we try to be the person that we think models success, and totally ignore the person that God has created each of us to be.
As Im addresses these lies, he also refers us to the scriptures that exemplify certain Biblical truths.
This book was a good reminder for me that God’s truths are eternal, but sometimes I prefer to listen to the lies that world tells me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. 4/5
These lies spill over into all aspects of our life. And some of them are more believable than others. Daniel Im has written a book that exposes several of these lies. (You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies About Work, Life and Love, B&H publishing, 2020)
It’s bad enough when other people lie to us, intentionally or not, but it’s even worse when we tell ourselves those lies, and repeat them so often that they become truth. We believe our lies and live our lives accordingly. Unfortunately, when we’re chasing after the wrong things, we often forget God and the part that He should be playing in our lives. We lust after possessions and status, we try to be the person that we think models success, and totally ignore the person that God has created each of us to be.
As Im addresses these lies, he also refers us to the scriptures that exemplify certain Biblical truths.
This book was a good reminder for me that God’s truths are eternal, but sometimes I prefer to listen to the lies that world tells me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. 4/5
February 5, 2020
“You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies About Work, Life, & Love” is an engaging look at a serious question we all ask: Who Am I?
Daniel Im tackles this question by addressing 7 lies we all are tempted to believe. Im tackles these seven lies one chapter at a time using logic, trivia, quotes, biblical scripture, interesting stories and personal anecdotes. And he has some good ones. He is not afraid to share some unflattering details either.
I jumped at the chance to review a pre-release copy of this book based on how much I loved his first book: “No Silver Bullets: Five Small Shifts that will Transform Your Ministry.” While that book focused on church ministry, this book has a much wider audience. I loved that book so I was eager to dive into his next offering. I was not disappointed.
While his main audience is people of biblical faiths who want a more authentic faith, these lies are believed by practically everyone, making this book relevant to any and everyone.
There’s nothing to make you think like a good question. Im asks questions throughout his book challenging you to wrestle with who you are and where your true identity comes from.
After working carefully through each of these lies, Im finished strong, challenging the reader to feel the implications of continuing to believe the lies.
“You are not what you do. You are not what you experience. You are not who you know. You are not what you know. You are not what you own. You are not who you raise. And you are definitely not your past”
Im ups the ante when he says forsaking these lies aren’t enough.
“There is a sense of freedom in knowing what and who you are not. But ridding yourself of these seven lies won’t fill you—it’ll just empty you. Unless you replace these lies with the truth of who you really are, you’ll just find another set of lies—even stronger and more destructive—to replace these with.“
Figuring out who you are in this universe is a challenging but worthy pursuit. This book helped me look into the mirror and face once again who I think I am. There’s tremendous peace in knowing the answer to that question.
Excerpts are From
You Are What You Do
Daniel Im
This material may be protected by copyright.
Book was given for free to review. The author asked for an honest review—good or bad.
Daniel Im tackles this question by addressing 7 lies we all are tempted to believe. Im tackles these seven lies one chapter at a time using logic, trivia, quotes, biblical scripture, interesting stories and personal anecdotes. And he has some good ones. He is not afraid to share some unflattering details either.
I jumped at the chance to review a pre-release copy of this book based on how much I loved his first book: “No Silver Bullets: Five Small Shifts that will Transform Your Ministry.” While that book focused on church ministry, this book has a much wider audience. I loved that book so I was eager to dive into his next offering. I was not disappointed.
While his main audience is people of biblical faiths who want a more authentic faith, these lies are believed by practically everyone, making this book relevant to any and everyone.
There’s nothing to make you think like a good question. Im asks questions throughout his book challenging you to wrestle with who you are and where your true identity comes from.
After working carefully through each of these lies, Im finished strong, challenging the reader to feel the implications of continuing to believe the lies.
“You are not what you do. You are not what you experience. You are not who you know. You are not what you know. You are not what you own. You are not who you raise. And you are definitely not your past”
Im ups the ante when he says forsaking these lies aren’t enough.
“There is a sense of freedom in knowing what and who you are not. But ridding yourself of these seven lies won’t fill you—it’ll just empty you. Unless you replace these lies with the truth of who you really are, you’ll just find another set of lies—even stronger and more destructive—to replace these with.“
Figuring out who you are in this universe is a challenging but worthy pursuit. This book helped me look into the mirror and face once again who I think I am. There’s tremendous peace in knowing the answer to that question.
Excerpts are From
You Are What You Do
Daniel Im
This material may be protected by copyright.
Book was given for free to review. The author asked for an honest review—good or bad.
February 24, 2020
This a great read from an even greater guy. Daniel weaves the points he makes about the cultural lies we've all but accepted these days, with his own story and experience.
Lots of great insight, see the dog ears. I can't wait to see what this guy writes next.
Lots of great insight, see the dog ears. I can't wait to see what this guy writes next.
February 6, 2020
Are our identities earned, or are they received?
~
In You Are What You Do, Daniel Im does a fantastic job identifying the specific ways that the world tells us we find our identity, and he displays how each one of them will always come up short and leave us tired, hungry, jealous and desperate. He tackles the entire spectrum of challenges that people living in the world today face, ranging from the gig economy and people desperate to make it big on their side hustle to the strange (to me) world of online dating. At every stop along the way, Daniel is winsome and opens up how his life has been affected by at times believing the lies that we are so tempted to believe.
~
What I really admire about the way that he shares in this book is that Daniel makes it a point to share stories of his life where he is not the hero. He shares his weakness, and in sharing his failures and struggles, God’s power and God’s goodness is magnified, and that is something that I think is worth celebrating.
~
In this short, relatable volume, Daniel Im joins the likes of Tim Keller and James K.A. Smith in his ability to “exegete the culture”, identify what it is that people are valuing that underlies the the world we live in today, and apply the truth of the gospel in the face of lies people are believing. This is a book I could very comfortably put in the hands of my unbelieving friends, trusting that they will read about the bad news of hustle culture, materialism, “self-ism”, or whatever else it is that they are staking their identities in, and presented with the good news of the gospel to replace those punishing lies. As much as I personally have benefitted from this book, I can definitely see it as an evangelistic tool as well.
~
I’d recommend this book to any millennial, and I am glad to be part of @danielsangi and @bhpub ‘s launch team for this book!
~
In You Are What You Do, Daniel Im does a fantastic job identifying the specific ways that the world tells us we find our identity, and he displays how each one of them will always come up short and leave us tired, hungry, jealous and desperate. He tackles the entire spectrum of challenges that people living in the world today face, ranging from the gig economy and people desperate to make it big on their side hustle to the strange (to me) world of online dating. At every stop along the way, Daniel is winsome and opens up how his life has been affected by at times believing the lies that we are so tempted to believe.
~
What I really admire about the way that he shares in this book is that Daniel makes it a point to share stories of his life where he is not the hero. He shares his weakness, and in sharing his failures and struggles, God’s power and God’s goodness is magnified, and that is something that I think is worth celebrating.
~
In this short, relatable volume, Daniel Im joins the likes of Tim Keller and James K.A. Smith in his ability to “exegete the culture”, identify what it is that people are valuing that underlies the the world we live in today, and apply the truth of the gospel in the face of lies people are believing. This is a book I could very comfortably put in the hands of my unbelieving friends, trusting that they will read about the bad news of hustle culture, materialism, “self-ism”, or whatever else it is that they are staking their identities in, and presented with the good news of the gospel to replace those punishing lies. As much as I personally have benefitted from this book, I can definitely see it as an evangelistic tool as well.
~
I’d recommend this book to any millennial, and I am glad to be part of @danielsangi and @bhpub ‘s launch team for this book!
February 19, 2020
This book is relevant and timely. It's the kind of book I wish I would have read as a young man getting a start on life. I would highly recommend it for young adults.
However, this isn't only a book for young adults, as no one in the world today is immune to these lies. This is a book for everyone.
One piece of advice I would give in regard to this book: make sure to read all the way to the end. The book is written as a unified whole, rather than a series of stand-alone chapters; there is one big thought and thesis to this book, and if you stop reading before the end you will miss it.
I hope this book will be used by God to set many people free from lies and to find the security and freedom of "being found in Christ."
However, this isn't only a book for young adults, as no one in the world today is immune to these lies. This is a book for everyone.
One piece of advice I would give in regard to this book: make sure to read all the way to the end. The book is written as a unified whole, rather than a series of stand-alone chapters; there is one big thought and thesis to this book, and if you stop reading before the end you will miss it.
I hope this book will be used by God to set many people free from lies and to find the security and freedom of "being found in Christ."
February 7, 2020
Daniel Im has hit the nail on the head with You Are What You Do! He has astutely recognized seven lies our society tells us about our identity and worth, and addressed them with Scripture, logic, and experience. He delves deeply into current societal trends to define one's worth by what we do, what we experience, who we know, what we know, what we own, and by our children or our past. All of these are deluded deceptions that leave us empty, unsatisfied, and wanting more. They feed isolation and/or pride, causing us to think too little or too much of our own self. Im helps us see and observe the way this "gig economy," as he calls it, is "all around us, sharing the way we approach work, life, and love in more ways than we might realize." And he is so right! He helps us counter this new norm with the wisdom and insights of the Bible and personal learning that is helpful, self-deprecating, and encouraging. For me, the book was all about living out Romans 12:1-2, "not being conformed to the world, but being transformed by the renewing of your mind." In this, You Are What You Do..." is a powerful reminder and corrective that our identity is found is SomeOne, not SomeThing. If you are struggling with identity or worth issues, or have had someone tell you "you're no good," or "you're not worth anything," then I highly recommend this book! It will help you to overcome the obstacles the world puts in front of you, and enable you to see yourself as your Creator made you--a precious and unique, valued child of God.
February 12, 2020
Daniel jumps right in with this book talking about the gig economy. So, I immediately began to feel stressed out as I read. I am the sort of person who likes to be focused on one thing at a time. The whole concept of the gig economy just creates anxiety in me. However, I was pleased to find that, as I traveled through this book, Daniel was not presenting a how-to on surviving in a gig economy world. Instead, he systematically dismantles, not only the lie of finding worth in what you do, he digs into six other lies, as well, in a way that takes you from anxiety to peace chapter after chapter.
If you live with a focus on the things of this world in hopes that you will find meaning, purpose, and worth, then you need to read this book!
Daniel does a superb job of pointing his readers to the only Source that can lift us out of the stresses and worries of our self-absorbed culture and give true, lasting worth to our lives.
If you're drowning in anxiety, get this book. Read it. Find peace.
If you live with a focus on the things of this world in hopes that you will find meaning, purpose, and worth, then you need to read this book!
Daniel does a superb job of pointing his readers to the only Source that can lift us out of the stresses and worries of our self-absorbed culture and give true, lasting worth to our lives.
If you're drowning in anxiety, get this book. Read it. Find peace.
February 8, 2020
Though I have participated in the gig economy in multiple ways, directly and indirectly, I had never approached this topic in the same way in which Daniel is expanding throughout this book. He writes in a conversational style that is extremely easy to read and follow his thoughts throughout the book. Though this is the case, he does an amazing job exploring these topics and lies in such an informative way.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone. Though this is the case, I do believe that it is extremely beneficial for ministers and those who are active in the gig economy. For pastors, it is helpful to help them understand the people that make up their congregation better. For those involved in the gig economy, it would help zero into any possible lies that they are believing in their lives. That is driving every decision. Thus, it would help free them from any of these possible lies and drive them to a correct view of what should motivate them.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone. Though this is the case, I do believe that it is extremely beneficial for ministers and those who are active in the gig economy. For pastors, it is helpful to help them understand the people that make up their congregation better. For those involved in the gig economy, it would help zero into any possible lies that they are believing in their lives. That is driving every decision. Thus, it would help free them from any of these possible lies and drive them to a correct view of what should motivate them.
February 5, 2020
This book isn't one of those quick self-help books that are full of good ideas but no practical help. It is quite the opposite. Not only does Daniel diagnose many of the issues faced in the rat race of life, but he brings real-life remedies that can be implemented towards a shift to self-awareness and long-term health. He isn't scared to get real and vulnerable about his own story, either--showing that the ideas he is presenting are not merely theories but realities he has lived himself.
When I think about the books that I would recommend to anyone, this is one of them. Daniel not only tackles the topics that we all face today, but he does it in a way that is both relatable to the reader while not losing the profound nature of the ideas being unpacked. Just take a look at the chapter titles in this book, and you will know what I mean.
Imagine for a second a life that no longer falls prey to the half-truths and myths about who we are but instead discovers the true identity of whom God made you to be. If you are ready to take a real look at the myths and half-truths holding you back, I would highly recommend this book!
When I think about the books that I would recommend to anyone, this is one of them. Daniel not only tackles the topics that we all face today, but he does it in a way that is both relatable to the reader while not losing the profound nature of the ideas being unpacked. Just take a look at the chapter titles in this book, and you will know what I mean.
Imagine for a second a life that no longer falls prey to the half-truths and myths about who we are but instead discovers the true identity of whom God made you to be. If you are ready to take a real look at the myths and half-truths holding you back, I would highly recommend this book!
February 14, 2020
Eye-opening book that speaks truth to so many lies we are told, and ultimately believe, about our very essence. Daniel's writing paints a unique view on where we find our sense of identity and the lies that often leads us there. A definite must-read.
February 18, 2020
Daniel Im has a great pulse on the North American cultural shifts that affect the depths of our hearts and the state of our souls. He communicates winsomely with a transparent personality & sharp insights too.
February 5, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book - it was an easy read, nothing that makes you have to read and reread to understand. However, that being said, its a great book to re read to really sink in the message that is so important for everyone to hear in the world that we live in. He clearly addresses messages that are in our world that sometimes we aren't even aware that we are agreeing with or promoting. This is a thought provoking book that I will definitely be keeping on my shelf to read again and also to suggest to my friends and family. If you are looking to be introspective on your life and be a better version of yourself, or are seeking to find meaning because everything else has fallen short to fill that void - take a read, there's a great message here!
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