You Be You: Why Satisfaction and Success Are Closer Than You Think

by Jamie Ivey

Have you ever felt held back from the abundant life God promises you? Do you ever look at the satisfaction and success in other people’s lives, and wonder where yours is?
 
In You Be You , beloved podcast host and author Jamie Ivey reveals that the abundant life you want is closer than you think. It’s not over there in someone else’s life. No. It’s right here,  right now, in your life as it already is— you just have to know how to take hold of it.
 
And in this book, Jamie shows you how
   
Are you ready to finally bloom where you’re planted? To finally free yourself to flourish? To live a life that could only be done by Him and through you ? Then jump into You Be You , and you’ll find yourself satisfied and succeeding in ways you never expected.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Christianity, Self Help, Christian Non Fiction, Christian Living

240 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2020

Reviews

[Vonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have listened to Jamie’s podcast fairly regularly for quite some time. I appreciate her candidness, her honesty and her girl-next-door “normalness” (I don’t think that’s even a word, but let’s go with it). Not to mention, she just has a fun personality. Ha ha!

She’s just like you and me, drawing closer to God, walking into the giftings God is unfolding within her, and trusting Him as she follows this path He has her on. She’s learning as she goes and isn’t embarrassed to say so.

One of my favorite portions of this book was when she taught about the parable of the talents. She said, “The underlying culprit behind hoarding our talents is always fear. Listen to the man admit it in this parable: ‘I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground.’ Fear had led him to not do anything with the talent his master had invested him...He didn’t necessarily do anything bad; he just didn’t do anything. Sometimes when I come home from work during the summer and my kids are lying around letting their brains turn into mush From TV and video games, I’m frustrated with them - not because they did anything wrong, but because they did nothing at all!...I’m sorry, did he just say to cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness? Yes, I believe he did. He is not playing around with this man who did NOTHING with his talent.”

I had never noticed that the man who earned no return did so as a result of his fear. That hit home for me. Fear has threatened me on numerous occasions to play it safe in life.

Other themes include abiding in Christ, not comparing ourselves to others, and living faithfully right where we are. There really are so many great points to ponder. I’m in danger of sharing about 15 more quotes, but I’ll just let you take the time to read the book yourself.

I received a digital ARC copy from the publisher and net galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Gracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my second Jamie Ivey book that I’ve read, and I just love how uplifting she is! Lots of Christian books come across as condescending, but I’ve found that she is extremely relatable and she shares the Word and how to live your faith in a way that just feels like you’re talking to a friend. It was a super quick read, but it wasn’t just stuffed with filler, it was really meaningful! 5/5 ⭐️

[Jessica Corwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

After our first calling as a disciple of Christ, Jamie helps pinpoint our second calling. Identify the burden God has placed on your heart [mental health, wellness, post-partum, veterans...], then determine how the talents + gifts God has given you will match up to meet the need.

Loved that. ♡

[Erica Huntsman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just what I needed during this current season of life. It’s uplifting and heartfelt and honest. I love the way Jamie writes. Highly recommend.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read. Lots of practical wisdom told in a straightforward way. Liked this one.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book that gives you the power to give up worrying about others and focus on using all that God has given you to be the best person you were meant to be.

[Shan A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jamie's heart for women and helping them step into who God created them to be. I bought her book If You Only Knew back in 2018 when I needed that message and a few weeks ago, got her second book. Well, turns out Jamie writes books for exactly what I need when I need to hear it. She is a powerful communicator that believes in the power of the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. If you want to step into a fuller version of who God created you to be, read this book, step into the teaching of the holy spirit, as He revealed to you your diving purpose. Thank you Jamie. Thank you for your dedication to women like me.

Thank you to Netgalley, the Publisher and the Author for this complementary copy of the book.

[Mari Sample · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going to be honest--when I received this book, I was skeptical.

I received the book as a "free gift" along with another service, and the branding and title weren't the most attractive to me. I thought it would have #girlboss vibes. But oh my goodness, was I wrong!

I think the marketing is intentional to attract people who are trying to hustle or climb the ladder. And Jamie is committed to working hard. But her message is about faithfulness to Christ and using what He gives us, not achieving goals or becoming a speaker/author/entrepreneur (seriously, what is it about that combination!?).

I often see Jamie's work criticized for not being the most eloquent or flowery writing, and have had those thoughts myself. However, the honesty, wisdom, and simplicity of her books is refreshing. Her advice is faithful to the Word of God and easily applicable--I think that is extremely valuable.

This is a fast read that will fire you up to be faithful to our Savior, and that's a win in my opinion!

Just as a side note, I think this book would be great as an audiobook! Jamie is a podcaster, and her tone is so conversational that I think it would be awesome in that form as well.

[Markie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "You Be You" by Jamie Ivey, readers are treated to an inspiring and empowering exploration of personal fulfillment and success. Ivey's conversational and relatable writing style creates an engaging reading experience that encourages self-reflection and a shift in mindset.

One of the strengths of this book is Ivey's emphasis on embracing one's uniqueness. She challenges the notion that success is defined solely by external accomplishments or societal expectations. Instead, she encourages readers to lean into their authentic selves, discovering their passions, talents, and purpose. By embracing their individuality, readers can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and find success on their own terms.

Ivey's storytelling approach, peppered with personal anecdotes and experiences, makes the book feel like a heartfelt conversation with a trusted friend. She openly shares her own struggles and triumphs, offering valuable lessons and insights along the way. This vulnerability helps readers connect with her message on a deeper level, fostering a sense of encouragement and reassurance.

Throughout the book, Ivey provides practical advice and actionable steps for readers to navigate their personal journey toward satisfaction and success. She delves into topics such as self-worth, comparison, fear, and perseverance, offering guidance and strategies to overcome obstacles and cultivate a positive mindset. The book's relatable anecdotes and practical exercises empower readers to take ownership of their lives and make intentional choices that align with their values and aspirations.

"You Be You" promotes the importance of self-care and self-compassion as essential components of personal growth. Ivey highlights the significance of prioritizing one's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By nurturing oneself, readers can build a solid foundation for pursuing their dreams and finding satisfaction in life.

While the book offers valuable insights and encouragement, some readers may find that certain concepts or ideas presented are not entirely novel. However, the strength of "You Be You" lies in Ivey's ability to reframe and reiterate these concepts in a relatable and accessible manner, making them more actionable and impactful.

In conclusion, "You Be You: Why Satisfaction and Success Are Closer Than You Think" by Jamie Ivey is a motivational and thought-provoking book that encourages readers to embrace their true selves and pursue a fulfilling life. With its relatable stories, practical advice, and empowering message, this book serves as a guide for readers to navigate their own paths toward satisfaction and success. Whether seeking personal growth, a change in perspective, or inspiration to pursue their dreams, readers will find encouragement and wisdom within the pages of this book.

Rating: 4/5

[Caitie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie Ivey's new book You Be You is a Godsend- and I mean that literally! The fun, catchy title could bring pause to some who may fear Jamie is pushing another "self help, do-it-yourself, pull yourself up by your bootstraps" kind of message. So good news, fellow reader: If you don't want fluff, and you want deep, spiritual truths instead, you've come to the right place!

Jamie's book offers no empty platitudes or life-hacks that fall short. Instead, You be You bleeds Jesus on every page. Jamie invites women to step into their talents, gifts, and God-given abilities to become the person that God always created you to be! This book is special because Jamie lives this message every day in her work with her podcast The Happy Hour, and in the book she shares lots of stories of other awesome women who are leaning into their callings right where God has placed them- whether that means doing something big or something small.

Jamie wants you to know that you don't have to have a podcast or a TV show or 500k followers on Instagram to make an impact for the Kingdom. You can be you right where you already are, believing that God put you there on purpose and has fully equipped you for every good work!

Favorite chapters include Chapter 7, "Unavoidable but Invaluable: The Opportunity in Adversity," about how sometimes your calling is born from experiencing difficulties, and chapter 5, "The Trouble with Comparison," about how to believe in your unique gifts when it seems like everyone around you has better ones.

I cannot recommend this book enough. I'm already planning a re-read to fully soak it in. I'm a woman in my mid-20's, wondering how I can be used where I am in a new city where I know nobody in the middle of a pandemic! Jamie's book helped me to know that I am free to be me and fully embrace the joyful truth that God placed me here on purpose, for such a time as this.

[Sarah M. Wells · Rating 3 out of 5]

My children are constantly asked as they progress through school, what do you want to do when you grow up? What do you want to be? Lately, mine are focused on jobs that will make them millionaires. Not if but when I am rich, they say, I will buy a house on the beach, and I’ll buy you one, too, Mom!

More often than not, the questions I’m asking myself are the same questions they will be asked a million times: What have I accomplished? How much money can I earn? What are my career goals? How will I measure success? As Mary Oliver says, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Are these the right questions? Maybe our aspirations for ourselves are too narrow. Maybe we need to change the questions.

From Success to Faithfulness
In her newest book, author, podcast host of The Happy Hour, and now talk show host (!) Jamie Ivey writes, “I think we have been asking ourselves the wrong questions about our lives. Instead of asking, ‘Did I do enough today?’ what if we asked ourselves, ‘Did I become more like Jesus today?’ Instead of asking, ‘Was I successful?’ what if we asked, ‘Was I faithful?’”

This is the crux of Ivey’s book, You Be You, a challenge to lean into the calling God has given you, no matter what your current life circumstances, and by doing so, find success and satisfaction. We’re so busy looking into the future, trying to spy for ourselves in some faraway someday, we miss the opportunity to live a full life right now. We’re so caught up in following the stories of other people’s successes that we find ourselves standing still in a swamp of jealousy, self-doubt, and insecurity, certain we have nothing to offer compared to what other people say and do.

I’ve hit many of these potholes over the years. Through her own life stories, stories of her friends, and relevant Biblical stories, Jamie encourages her readers to remember who they are: children of God, created for a purpose that is meant to be lived out right now, right where they’re planted. Jamie helps her readers focus on true measures of success, measures that help us determine how closely we are walking with Jesus.

Changing the Tune around Calling
Since first grade, I have answered “I want to be a writer” every time someone asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

I didn’t become a Christian until college. As a new follower of Christ at the age of 18, my answer clouded over with frantic concerns about what God was calling me to do. It seemed like every one of my prayers during college involved me begging God to show me, according to Jeremiah 29:11, what his plans were. If God had a plan for me, why wasn’t he making it super clear?! Maybe an English teacher? Maybe a writer? Maybe a journalist? Maybe a religion teacher? Maybe forget all of that and find a husband and become a mother? What is the one thing, Lord?!

We Christians sometimes overhype the idea of callings from God. I think a lot of us have felt the same pressure and fear that we’re not going to do what God is calling us to do, simply because we’re not sure what God has to say about the matter. We can trip all over ourselves trying to discern what God wants from us.

God’s call isn’t career-specific. We are called to be followers of Christ, no matter what we’re doing with our lives.

“And I just think that’s the secret,” writes Jamie. “By choosing first to be faithful, even amid the frequent uncertainties of exactly what God may be calling you to do, that’s how you stay true to your calling.”

Full review at https://rootandvinenews.com/root-vine...

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a message that all women need to hear! Especially in a world where everyone says "You be you," but the message is much different from the one that Jamie is proclaiming in her book. While the world is saying you be you, they really mean, do what feels good to you, or do what you want for you. Jamie's message is encouraging us to be the "You be you" that God designed us to be. To bloom where we are planted, with what we know and with what we have. We are to get rid of the sin of discontentment, and the habit of comparing ourselves to other ladies, we are to focus on being who God wants us to be. Written in an engaging manner, you feel like you are sitting with your friend and she is telling you like it is, and encouraging you to be all that you can be with the strength that comes from God alone. One of the things that Jamie said that really stood out to me is that "We are enough because Jesus is enough." In a world where so many of us feel like we are not enough, and we will never be enough, this is a message that needs to be heard. She also said, "God's strength comes from abiding in Jesus." Another great reminder that we are not alone, and we need to remember where our strength comes from. There are so many great nuggets in this book, so many great quotes, and so much that will draw you back to this book over and over again.
Thank you to the publisher and Net galley for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Beth Jordahl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book as a part of the If Gathering box. It was such a delightful surprise! I hadn’t heard of Jamie Ivey before and I haven’t read her other book. So I came into this one with an open mind, ready to see what she had to say!

The beauty of this book is that it feels very much like you are just sitting with Jamie chatting about life. You can bring her your questions, and she answers. You can read her stories and hear her heart for others.

My biggest takeaway is that success should be something that you define for yourself.

You shouldn’t allow yourself to be sucked into the ideals of someone else. This was a big learning curve for me in my twenties. I always felt like I had this list of things that I needed to accomplish to be successful. It felt like I was always trying to keep up with… someone. Not really a person I suppose, but rather my own idea of what I should have or should be doing.

This book reminded me that actually success should be based on what God has called me to, what I desire for my own life. The journey is my own.

It also really hit home that I can have grace in the mundane. This is something I often struggle with. Those ordinary moments- putting away laundry, doing the dishes, dusting. It all feels monotonous. But even those moments have their impact and importance.

If you need just a refresher on how to live simply and well. This book is wonderful!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jamie Ivey! I have been listening to her Podcast, The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey since she started. So when she wrote her first book, If You Only Knew, I could not wait to read it. And I was not disappointed. Now with her second book, You Be You, she has really hit it out of the park. She has a way of writing that makes you feel like she is just telling you stories. She is authentic and down to earth, which makes her relatable to so many people.
In this book, she really brings home the freedom of being yourself, who God made YOU to be, just as you are. No comparing to others on social media, no wishing for talents you don’t have. She opens your heart and mind to having a relationship with God and knowing that He made you to do what is meant for only you. What a relief that is!
I believe Jamie Ivey and this book are for “such a time as this”. We all need to be set free from the trap of feeling “less than” what we see on tv and social media. It doesn’t promote a healthy mindset and we are never satisfied and fulfilled. She explains all of that and so much more.
This is a book you don’t want to miss. It is so easy to read and you will feel she is right there with you, cheering you on to just be you! Awesome!

[Francine · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know what they say, “don’t judge a book by its cover”. But when I saw this book’s title (You be You) and subtitle (Why satisfaction and success are closer than you think), plus the picture of the author printed big, I confess I was ready to cast it aside as another “Self-Esteem Gospel” kinda book.

However, after feeling a tug from the Spirit to pick it up, I found a wonderful book, like a talk with a friend over coffee, encouraging me to be like Jesus. Jamie teaches us to make a difference for the Kingdom right where we are, exactly as the person God made us to be.

Don’t be fooled by its cover, You be You is actually not about you at all, it’s all about Jesus. And I loved it!

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a book that unlocks the REAL key to success, then this is the one for you. In You Be You, JAMIE IVEY encourages her readers to throw away the false ideas of success that the media presents and embrace the talents and gifts that you received from God in order to not only bloom, but to flourish where you’re planted.
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Jamie’s book is broken into 3 different sections: Discovering Yourself, Accepting Yourself and Becoming Yourself. Each chapter covers a different concept; such as finding your voice, maximizing your gifts, and the trouble with comparison. Each chapter shatters an idea that society leads you to believe. For example: you can only be successful if you have XX amount of money like Mrs. Smith down the street, or if you drive the fancy car that Mr. Jones drives. Comparison is the thief of joy. Rather than compare your level of success to others, look at how you’re using your God-given talent for the betterment of society. If you’re not using your talents, but your climbing the corporate ladder, are you really succeeding?
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This book is an excellent read! Jamie manages to dive deep while also delivering a quick read. This would make a great Christmas present for your friends, family, or even for yourself.

[Diane Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You Be You” by Jamie Ivey was a great read! Jamie Ivey writes in such a way that it feels like you are sitting with a great friend! Her style is so down to earth and so easy to read. I love this about her books!

This book had so many good tidbits of wise advice. My favorite chapter was the one on comparison. I have always struggled with this issue, and she did such a great job of helping me come to terms with not comparing myself with others.

I highly recommend this book. I believe it would be beneficial to women of all ages.

I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

[Cassidy Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Jamie Ivey’s podcast for years and love her authenticity, vulnerability, and her passion for creating a platform where she and others can share their stories with the goal of encouraging and inspiring others. You Be You is like having a cheerleader and coach come alongside you encouraging you to run your specific race and lean into the calling that God has on your life. Jamie encourages women to ditch comparison and focus on their unique relationship with the Lord and His unique calling on their lives. Uplifting, inspiring, encouraging, & practical - this is a timely read for women who want to live for Jesus and to leave behind a godly legacy.

[McKenzie Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Be You by Jamie Ivey ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A friend lent me this book and told me that she thought I would enjoy it. It is a great book about using the gifts and talents that God has given each of us to serve others and to make Him known. 💙

I will admit, my friend and I were both skeptical about the title, but she assured me that the focus and premise of the book was not on the self, but on the Lord! 💙

This book helped me work through some areas of my life that I have been thinking about and praying about, and helped me get back on track to my callings (big and little) from the Lord.

I love the conversationalist tone the author has as she goes through some stories and convictions of her own. She is very transparent and you can see through her reflections on her life that God has shaped her and given her the desire to help others see that their lives have influence on others in big ways, even without big platforms or followings. 💙

I rate this book 5 stars, but I will add a small disclaimer: There are a few people and ideas that are referenced that I do not agree with theologically, but it was not distracting to the overall premise of the book.

I highly recommend this book! 😊

[MaryAnn Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book for those who need encouragement in life. Do you feel like you have come to a crossroads in life? This book will give you that encouragement. It will give you the information you need, with the help of Jesus to find out who you are and what you need to change your life. Have you ever asked yourself
Have you ever asked yourself who am I?
What is my purpose in life?
Well, this book will help you find that.
So open up the book, and find out who you really are and what you are meant to do!

[Brianna Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who feels a lot of “imposter syndrome,” this book was just what I needed to read right now! I found Jamie’s podcast the summer before starting a really challenging time in my education and my life has been so richly blessed by it! She really has a way of putting life in perspective and is always encouraging, yet challenges listeners to grow. Her heart for God, fun personality, and loving voice come through in both her podcast and this book. I think both fans and people new to her would get a lot of this book!

[Brittni Yount · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jamie Ivey. I have sense I was introduced to her podcast. I’ve read her first book & her book that she co-wrote w her husband. When I saw this book cover, I judged it so hard and became verrrrrry hesitant to read it. So I didn’t. However, I am so glad that I gave it a chance. Time and time again Jamie is faithful to celebrating women, being vulnerable about herself & bringing glory to the name of God. I have left feeling empowered and encouraged to use my gifts for God’s glory in the place that he has me right now!

[Nicole White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jamie Ivey so I had to give her 5 stars although I typically save those for books I will keep and re-read. This is likely not one of those books for me. But I love the heart behind it. A lot of "church" talk - like a grew up with. Some highlights of things to remember but mostly things I've heard throughout my life, but would like more substance as to how this is lived out. Maybe this is due to my cynical heart right now...??

[Debbie McCall · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many great points in this book but the one I hope to remind myself is success should mean faithfullness. My reading of this book happened to overlap the passing of a dear friend who was a great example of someone who used their life to be faithful in service to our Creator. This book was a great reminder of our true calling. I'm so glad Jamie chose to narrate this book herself as it gave such a realness to what she wrote.

[Monta Cochran · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a breathe of fresh air this book is in a world of fast paced and grasping to do all the things.
Her use of scripture and biblical principles gives me encouragement to keep the faith and run my race not anyone else’s.
Thank you Jamie for constantly showing me how to be who God intended me to be while always pointing me to Jesus.
The scripture reference in the back of the book is yet another way you give God all the glory!
An easy and quick read to encourage you to be you!
No one else can!

[Morgan Wolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good encouraging read. I like Jamie’s style of writing because it’s easy to digest, relatable and still makes you feel like you’ve been to church. She has a great way of taking a somewhat simple message but diving into the details so you have action items to walk away with. This book resonates with most seasons of life as she reminds us how to live intentionally in the exact season we are in. Would gift to many friends :)

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie Ivey's writing is easy to read and relatable. I enjoyed this read but wished there would have been a little more depth to it. Have faith in the talents and gifts that God has given you, stop comparing yourself to others and you will see how much influence you have on/in the world. My goal is for God to take my hand when I get to heaven and say welcome, my good and faithful servant. "Run with endurance down the paths he has set before you. He has given you everything you need to finish."

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some days (most days) we need a reminder that we are created uniquely by the God of the Universe to live our own story without comparisons. We each have gifts and talents and love to share that will shine God’s light in our own unique way. We have voices today where we are, at this stage of life - we just need to use it. @jamieivey reminds us not to let comparisons cost us the blessings of what we already have!

I wish I would’ve read this (and learned this) in my twenties!

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorites of this year. Jamie does a good job of defining success and empowering you to yes, go out and use all of the skills you have without guilt or shame, but also do them out of a place of abiding in the correct source, with some really practical self evaluation questions thrown in too.

[Mary Kenyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaimie is like the new best friend who encourages you...to be YOU, the you God designed you to be. I love her encouragement, insight, and easy conversational style of writing. I will read more of her books.