Quieting the Shout of Should: How a Life of Less Can Lead to More

by Crystal Stine

Trade comparison for contentment.Self-criticism for confidence.Insecurity for peace. You feel the pressures from society, social media, and even yourself weighing heavy upon do more, be better, try harder. No matter how well you can fake it, this hustle to act like the model woman, wife, mother, and friend leaves you feeling exhausted and unworthy. Crystal Stine spent years striving to meet those same impossible standards, only to realize this struggle was diminishing the woman God made her to be. In Quieting the Shout of Should, she shares how her heavenly Father transformed her priorities when she traded guilt and burnout for obedience and worship. Incorporating personal stories, reflective devotions, and thoughtful discussion questions, Crystal will help prepare you to… relinquish the burdens of perfectionism, comparison, and jealousychoose small daily steps to refocus your gaze on Godfind freedom by embracing all God made you to be You don’t have to keep fighting to live up to the world’s ideals. Quieting the Shout of Should will help you redefine your self-worth and move into the abundant life God has for you.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Christian, Self Help, Personal Development, Faith

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 6, 2020

About the author

Crystal’s passion is encouraging, equipping and inspiring women of all ages to embrace a work hard, rest well lifestyle that honors God - so they can work without shame and rest without guilt.

Her first book, “Holy Hustle: Embracing a Work Hard, Rest Well Lifestyle” released June 5, 2018 (Harvest House), followed by "Quieting the Shout of Should" (Oct 2020, Harvest House) and a "Holy Hustle" planner (January 2021, Harvest House).

You can connect with Crystal online at crystalstine.me, learn more about her book at holyhustlebook.com, get a sneak peek of her books & planner through three free devotionals of the same names on YouVersion, or find her on Instagram @crystalstine.

Reviews

[Cori · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgally and Harvest House Publishers, for the advanced reader copy of this book. All views and opinions in this review are my own.

I have issues with "shoulding" on myself. "I should stay at work longer and catch up." "I should go home on time and see my husband." "I should get to bed earlier." "I should stay up and finish that project I need to turn in." "I should put more time into this ministry." "I should figure out way that I'm not spreading myself so thin." "Shoulding" on myself is exhausting. Even a success turns into guilt when a counter-should exists. I don't think I'm alone in this by any means. Truly, I think this is an epidemic, especially in the day of social media and connectivity showing us the greatest successes in others' lives which drives us to feel we should do more. Be more. Be better. When in actuality, most of us are exhausted behind the filtered selfie.

Obviously, this title jumped out at me. It seemed like it would hit all the right notes. But somehow, it felt a little discordant. And I'm struggling to identify why. Somehow, I just didn't feel like it scratched the itch.

I really liked the "Flip" sections where it gave a typical "I should (fill in the blank)" and flipped it to a prayer of gratitude instead. Crystal also uses a lot of Scripture, which I appreciated. I went into this thinking it was more of a self-help style and it fell firmly into the category of devotional or Bible study companion. Readability was pretty good as well. I almost wish there was more of the Rachel Hollis style of conversational writing to break up the so-so engagement between writer and reader, but it wasn't bad.

Here's where I think the book struggles, although it can be reconciled. Quieting the Shout of Should SHOULD have related back to the title concept. Repeatedly, I wondered where the author was going with a thought, section, or chapter. In what way would it loop back to the book's title? Often, I never did figure it out. Something needs to make it more linear in circling back to the book's overall message. Maybe it can be via titles at the beginning of each section such as a common "should" that we tell ourselves followed by the ways to combat it "I should work harder..." and the author rebuttles that. "I should pray a certain way..." followed by the author's rebuttal. The "Flip" sections at the end helped me identify "where the author was going with that" a few times, so having it closer to the original discussion may have helped. I just wasn't sure what point she was trying to make in reference to the key subject matter.

And this maybe a small gripe, but the writing came across a lot with a "you should do this" message, which seemed ironically counter-intuitive even though most of what she said was spot on. I do think it's the lack of linear structure to the overall book layout that made it feel this way. Because, again, she wasn't really saying clearly WHY you should do (fill in the blank) to quiet the shout of your shoulds.

I may have set my expectations for this too high, or I may have gone in with a preconceived concept that wasn't fair to the author. I just didn't feel like it hit the target I needed it to.

A lot of spelling errors that, I'm sure, will be fixed before going to print.

I'd rate this a G.
Points of controversy: this is a Christian, faith based book.

[Atul_reads · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you so much Netgalley for this Advance Reader Copy.

It's sad for me to say this but this motivational book is not meant for me, from the first page I knew instantly.

I tried though to read it but I can't reach further. There is much information that I find misleading. Probably it's my fault for not realizing that most of the information comes from the bible, therefore it's for Christian believers and would be much appreciated by them.

[Katie Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I highly recommend “Quieting the Shout of Should” by Crystal Stine! “Should” appears in my conversations and mind quite often. Crystal’s book unpacks and uncovers common should’s that run through my head. Like I should be a better Mom, I should worry less, I should be a better friend. She writes about “shoulds” in relationships, time, possessions and faith.

The unique part of this book is that Crystal writes about and defines the should, but equips readers to face our self-imposed obligations through Biblical examples and scripture passages. She also includes a “Flip the Script” section that invites the reader to approach “should” conversations in a different way. Every part of this book was relatable and when I finished, I felt encouraged - encourage to be who I am, that less is more, and to look at the wonder of this life, instead of the worries.

[Lindsay Rankin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. As a wife and mother myself, I find myself fighting the comparison battle all the time. I used to think I was pretty content with who I was, but have since realized that I have always been comparing myself with others, just in different ways through the stages of my life. This book is relatable, thought-provoking, and inspiring. I loved how the author had personal stories followed by digging deeper into Scripture sections. There are also sections with questions for book clubs. I highly recommend this book!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Paul Mashack · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listening to this audiobook, it was obviously targeted towards women.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We can rest easy knowing that the obligations we feel based on the shoulds the world shouts at us can be quieted."

As women, we balance and juggle so many balls, roles, jobs, etc. If you sepdn more than 5 minutes on the internet or social media, you are bombarded with the shouts of who we should be and what we should be doing with our life. If you have ever said to yourself, "I should ____", this book is for you. This book is like sitting down with your best friend for coffee and them reminding you that you are worth more than the shoulda of the world. I loved how down to earth and relatable Crystal made each chapter. I truly felt like she was was talking about my life! There are so many "ah ha" moments and necessary reminders of what/who we are to God! The interwoven scripture, Bible stories and "Flip the Script" makes it possible to step out from under our "shoulds" and see ourselves for the amazing person God created us to be.

[Natalie Fermoyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the message of this book. Should is the least helpful word to use for our own motivation or inspiring others to action. It implies a failure or box to check. Seeking direction and following pathways that are guided by inspiration is courageous and where true personal growth is found.
Letting go of comparison and expectation is what has brought me happiness. Accepting my best efforts as enough without expectations or goals to be checked has brought a new freedom to my life and as Crystal acknowledges in this book, God’s plan is so much better than anything we could plan for ourselves. He is always working for our best interests and trusting Him brings heavenly peace and acceptance.

[Mechthild · Rating 5 out of 5]

The pressure of "should" is real
Author and speaker Crystal Stine presents "Quieting the Shout of Should. How a Life of Less Can Lead to More", published by Harvest House Publishers. The book is divided into four parts: 1) Relationships, 2) Personality and Possessions, 3) Time and Talents, and 4) Faith. Every one of these parts is followed by a section entitled "Quiet Time" which is a time to pause. It offers a Bible passage to read, thoughts by the author, and a "Quiet quest" to accomplish. Each chapter in these parts deals with a specific struggle, e.g. "I should be More Like Her", "I should Want to Host", "I should Work Less and Serve More", or "I Should Never Doubt What God has Planned for me".
Stine states as goal of the book: "That’s what this book is—not permission to put on headphones and check out from our lives, but an invitation to go on a journey that navigates the noise of the world as we swap what weighs us down for the quiet, uplifting guidance from God our souls seek (p.9)." She wishes that readers "... to read this book slowly, giving yourself time to rest and reflect and space to hear from God over all the shoulds the world shouts at you. Running on empty will never take you where God needs you, and listening to the shouts of should from the world will only distract you from living fully in God’s peace, provision, and power. Refill and refuel so you can be prepared to do the work God has set before you with passion and joy (p. 10)." Stine is convinced that quieting the shout of should is more than just beneficial: "Imagine the impact it might have on your family and your future if you were able to walk in the freedom of making choices that honor God, instead of trying to live up to what everyone else is doing. There is freedom and abundant living in choosing to embrace who God made you to be (p. 22)."
The book is far more than a simple "self-help" book. Stine is honest, personal, and uses personal examples. She offers also additional materials (reading plan, book club materials, but I also appreciated the sections entitled "Digging deeper" (reflections based on the Bible), "Flip the Script" (changing negative statements to positive ones), and "Reflection" at the end of the chapters. Furthermore, she has included an appendix with "Women Who Silenced Should" and Notes at the end of the book. I highly recommend the book for reading it alone, but also in a Bible study group or in a book club. The book "should" be read more than once, but most important, it needs to be applied.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#QuietingTheShoutOfShould #NetGalley

[Jess | The_Afterword · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you ever feel the pressure of society saying, “you should?” You should have more followers on social media, you should be a better friend, partner, or parent, you should try harder at life. Author Crystal Stine walks the readers through how to begin Quieting the Shout of Should in our lives.

After reading the synopsis, I was so excited to get my hands on this book. Hearing a “Shout of Should” is something I think everyone can relate to. It’s an inner battle most humans have with themselves. We are usually fighting our consciousness to either leave us alone or we become the “Should’s” prisoner.

Crystal Stine guides her readers through her own personal journey with her “Shout of Should.” Stine lays out a floor plan on how we can navigate our own voices of Should. Through devotionals, book club discussion questions, and offering times of reflection, Stine becomes a wonderful guide out of the “Shout of Should” and into God’s everlasting love and life.

This book isn’t your typical self-help book. If after reading this review you are left thinking, “Yeah, I could use some help in quieting the Shout of Should in my life,” then this is a book for you. Are you looking for a group devotional for your church or youth group? This is a book for you. Have you been struggling with comparison, jealously, and perfectionism? Then this is a book for you.

Thank you, NetGalley, Harvest House Publishers, and Crystal Stine for this advanced reading copy.

EXPECTED PUB DATE: October 6, 2020

"When we spend time comparing ourselves to other women online and in our real lives, our hearts can become hardened even against women in the Bible. In that case, the Proverbs 31 woman isn’t viewed as someone to celebrate and emulate, but as a threat – someone who puts us on the defensive because we’ll never measure up, instead of a model of love and generosity." -Crystal Stine, Quieting the Shout of Should

PUBLICATION DETAILS: Harvest House Publishers; October 6, 2020; 224 pages; Christian, Self-Help

[Kidron Tirey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The challenge is formidable in nature: write an entire book about a single word—go deep—and yet offer readers practical advice that isn’t for trivial play and handling. Stine does exactly this because she knows what she is doing in wielding from a treasury of personal experience that points back to Christ. This book is a resource that will benefit a wide audience. “Quieting the Shout of Should” isn’t about sorting one’s self out per se but in applying Biblical principles and promises that help reveal the misplaced “shoulds” of our days—which can offer much relief for the soul. I recommend this book because Stine acknowledges that in grappling with these issues, “anything other than giving it completely over to Jesus and relying on His help will leave us holding on to the tiny parts we think we can handle.” This is pivotal. Similarly, she calls the reader to be obedient to God—another win.

Stine also makes a subtle plea for recognizing sin in one’s life, though this theme could have been readily developed with an actual definition of repentance. Readers are urged to not keep their “sins buried” and to “turn back to God” but beyond that, I’m not confident that the average postmodern Christian who might pick up this book will connect the dots on their own that to turn to God is to leave sin and its effects entirely behind them. Granted, this isn’t a book chiefly about sin. However, to hold oneself under so many “shoulds” reveals a heart conditioned by pride, which has a sin component. Many want God to be OK with sin, as long as it is out in the open (I.e. as opposed to buried, making one a hypocrite.) Thus it is helpful in a Christian message for the act of repentance to be clearly articulated because repentance is at the heart of the gospel, even for those who are already incorporated into the church as the bride of Christ (Rev 2:5; 1 John 1:9). This is nonetheless a minor area for improvement; it is very good book overall and the discipled Christian will make the leap in this one area on their own.

[Aminata Coote · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crystal Stine wants you to consider the impact the things you should do are having on your life.  Quieting the Shout of Should addresses concerns such as,

• Being a better mother

• Having more friends

• Apologizing less

• Having more faith

• Praying more

She uses her experience to show us how devastating giving in to people's expectations can be, especially when we fail to live up to God's expectations of us.

She uses Scripture to encourage her reader to strive for God's best.

Each chapter ends with an option to "flip the script". Ms. Stine reiterates the should being expounded on in the chapter and  offers a suggestion to turn it into an opportunity for growth.

Each chapter also includes a set of questions that can be used for personal  reflection or as part of a book club discussion.

Quieting the Shout of Should is divided into four sections  and at the end of each section, Ms. Stine includes a quiet time. This is a chance to dig into Scripture, to spend a little quiet time with God.

There were quite a few shoulds that resonated with me but I found it difficult to get into the book. I can't pinpoint the reason but believe it may be because this book was trying to do too many things at once.

What I did enjoy about this book was that Ms. Stine provided a reminder that we don't have to lean into the world's expectations, we can choose to do what God wants us to do instead.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publishers through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

We women are typically much harder on ourselves than we are on others. We apologize too often, and we "should" ourselves all too frequently. This title appealed to me immediately.

The author shares personal experiences in battling the "shoulds" in her own life. She writes in a personable manner and includes references to pertinent Scriptures for each of the chosen topics. At the end of each chapter there are "Flip the Script" suggestions on how to change perspective on the chapter's subject, Reflection/Bookclub questions and action points to reinforce the message in the chapter, and ends with a heartfelt prayer. I personally love the "Flip the Script" ideas.

A favorite quote from the ARC copy I read is "That's what carrying the burden of should does to our lives. It keeps our eyes focused on everything - and everyone - around us, instead of directing our gaze toward God."

The message of the book is the only "should" we ought to concern ourselves with is in doing what it takes, in all areas of our life, to draw closer to God, discern His will for us, and live our life accordingly.

My thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. I rate it as a 3.5 rounded to 4 star read. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crystal Stine's book, Quieting the Shout of Should: How a Life of Less Can Lead to More, is a well-written tome with a powerful message to Christian women of how turning off the "shoulds" in our life, or, better yet, flipping the script on those "shoulds," encourages us to live a life bigger and better in our devotion to God. Crystal delivers her message with relevant stories from her own life, as well as Jesus' truth told through stories from the Bible. Further, at the end of each chapter, Crystal encourages us to keep going with our studies with reflection and book club questions. Moreover, each chapter ends with a heartfelt, deep and engaging prayer. Crystal's book also includes inspiring "Quiet Time" sections, devoted to smaller readings, and an appendix compromised of small stories of women who have already silenced "shoulds." Crystal writes, "In fact, quieting the shout of should is often less about the accolades we'll receive in our lifetime and more about the opportunities we have to open a door for someone else, making it a little easier for the next woman or the next generation to step into the role God has designed for them." In all, Crystal should receive accolades for her book because it is powerful and inspiring. I highly recommend it.

[Gwen]

What can I say about this incredible book? Too many to note here, but I'll share a few of my thoughts. First, let me start by saying thank you to the author, Crystal Stine, for being so transparent and relatable. And for sharing your heart with all of us. Second, this book gave me an opportunity to dig deep and really peel away some of the layers of "shoulds" I never realized existed.

Quieting the Shout of Should invites us to set aside how we've always viewed life and our circumstances and view situations through the lens of scripture. God has a plan for us, even through our missteps, mishaps and misunderstandings. We can find peace in His word even if our lives always seemed to be filled with uncertainty and second-guessing. We need not feel the pull and tug of the world and think we are not living up to the world's expectations. Let's try to take the "should" out of our vocabulary and replace it with an opportunity to happily live our own lives without constraint.

Crystal shows us through each chapter, each scripture, and each personal life experience, how to "flip the script" and embrace what it means to pause and seek out God's voice in our every day.

I received an advanced copy of this book -Thank you to the publishers and thank you Crystal!

[Ayla Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a life-long people pleaser who really struggles with committing to more than I should, every word from Quieting the Shout of Should hit home.

Crystal Stine digs deep into the reasons why we feel the need to do it all and explains how to flip the script and find peace in Jesus. She uses scripture and relatable anecdotes to talk about everything from motherhood, to friendships, to worry and anxiety, to service, and so much more. We learn how to put aside all of the "shoulds" the world pushes at us and embrace the silence and peace found only in doing what God has planned for us. Each chapter includes a small section to use as a book club or further reflection as well as a "flip the script" and a "quiet quest" to help apply each tip to your own life and struggles.

I really appreciated that Stine used so much scripture and always pointed back to God. She shows us how to lay our burdens down at Jesus' feet, and how to decide if each "should" is something that is beneficial or if it's just something to help us keep up with the Joneses.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and will definitely be sharing it with my friends.

*I received a complimentary copy of Quieting the Shout of Should through the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

[Lillian Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book by Crystal Stine! We as women know all too well this word "should" and not always in a positive way. It doesn't matter how old we are to be bombarded with the shouts of this world telling us how to do things, like parenting, work, friendships, finances, ministry, etc... Everyone has an opinion! Crystal is transparent as she shares her battles of "shoulds" in her life. I definitely enjoyed the "Flip the Script" sections at the end of each chapter. It encouraged me to relax and listen more to the calling God placed in my heart. I loved that every shout of should was quieted down with scripture. This book makes for an excellent group book study and also an excellent read-alone devotional. I enjoyed the YouVersion devotional with my girlfriends and now look forward doing a study with this excellent book. Love this author's style and heart! Great read for every woman, young and not so young!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Crystal Stine’s book, “Quieting the Shout of Should,” Crystal invites her readers to learn to recognize the “shoulds” we may subconsciously tell ourselves in a world where women may feel pressured to be excellent at everything, and to listen for the quiet whispers of God’s voice found in Scripture. I found Crystal’s words to be very relatable, insightful, encouraging and hopeful! This is an interactive book that offers its readers various avenues to reflect and consider how to replace the “should” statements that add weight to our lives, with gentle words of gratitude and grace. Crystal puts to words what many women may feel through her personal stories, scripture, and through real life examples of well known women who “quieted the shout of should” making her book both very inspiring and engaging. This would make an excellent book for small group discussion.

I have daughters and I hope there will be a “Quieting the Shout of Should for Teens.”

[Emily P · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the heels of "Holy Hustle," author Stine reminds us once again that removing the things that hinder is the first step towards freedom.

In "Quieting the Shout of Should," Stine encourages us to take stock of what is truly most important. Do we want to do what we're doing, or are we listening to what everyone else tells us we should be doing? Can we downsize? Can we delete things that are weighing us down?

The book is broken down into four sections that address areas we tend to take on too much: Relationships, Personality and Possessions, Time and Talents, and Faith. Each chapter takes on a different issue and provides areas for reflection and assessment. At the end of the chapter, there is a short area for more discussion or a "Quiet Quest."

There is freedom from saying "YES" to all the things you "should" be doing. Read this book, perhaps with some friends or family, and take charge of what you actually want to be doing with your life. There's room for incredible growth!

[Sandra Strickland]

"God wants us to invite Him into the beat-up, broken, scarred hearts that desperately need His perfect love" is one of my favorite quotes from Crystal Stine's new book "Quieting the Shout of Should." Do you ever think you should be a better mother, help more, worry less, be happier, etc.? If so, this is the book for you. I had the privilege of reading this before publication in a digital format and I honestly cannot wait to get my paper copy so I can reread it, highlight it and make notes. I also will be ordering copies for my friends. The author shows you both biblical and practical ways to help you "quiet the shout of should" and how to be still and listen so you can become the person God wants you to be. The year 2020 has been extremely difficult and this book will help you in more ways than you will believe.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quieting the Shout of Should is the book that we all need right now. I received an advance online copy of it, and found it is the book that I have personally needed for many years now. So often society makes you feel like there are things you SHOULD be doing, have done, or plan to do. You should have a house by this age. You should be married by this age. You should be quiet and listen to these people. You should be having fun. Crystal takes a number of shoulds that society tends to place on us, and flips them upside down with a Biblical perspective as well as a personal one. Though it is still something I struggle with, am looking forward to continuing in moving forward, tackling these shoulds using this book as a guide.

[kathryn elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encouraging read that ties in scripture. The book helps the reader to give themselves grace, specifically women. I really appreciate how the Bible stories are woven into the book in a very applicable and understandable way. The book is a great resource for helping me to re-frame my thoughts, give myself grace, and stay centered on what truly matters and what doesn't. There are instances throughout the book where the author urges the reader to "flip the script". I found these reframes to be really helpful and empowering.

Of all the self-help or self-improvement books that are you right now, this one is very well done and based on truth.

[Angela Jenks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book highlighted the comparisons women, mothers, friends, and Christ-followers struggle with deeply. Knowing when to say yes to shoulds and when you shouldn’t. Is it really what you are being called to do or just stretching to stay in line with those around you? Quieting the Shout of Should by Crystal Stine challenged me to look within and peel away the layers of self-doubt, worry, and judgment of myself and others. The study and reflection portion enhanced the book as I gained knowledge of how to quiet the shoulds in my life and listen more to the calling God has placed in my heart. I can’t wait to do this study with my girlfriends!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you struggle with areas in your life where you feel that you need to measure up to the world's standard of what you 'should' be like? 'I Should Be More Like Her,' I Should Be a Better Mother,' I Should Have More Friends.' Author, Crystal Stine, shares many personal experiences of how God transformed the voices of 'should' in her life into becoming courageous, confident, and set apart. The book is packed with advice that will point you to Scripture to equip you to look to God for your value. #qtss #quietingthevoiceofshould

'.... carrying the burden of 'should' keeps our eyes focused on everything and everyone around us instead of directing our gaze toward God.'

[Evelyn Sherwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to laugh when I read the table of contents. I went down the chapters titles going, "Been there. Heard that. Wrestling with that shout." Crystal does a beautiful job weaving together her personal stories with biblical accounts to guide the reader on a journey to freedom. Through questions, practical tips, and powerful prayers I felt like the author was giving me a tool chest of resources to pull out each time the shout of should comes knocking on my heart's door. I especially appreciated the "flip the script" section. Our words have power. This simple practice gives us the power to expose the lies of should and acknowledge God's whisper of truth.

[Mana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Our society demands higly effective, productive and successful people, so we live in constant "what should I do to be and make everything better" world.

As author says we are in constant fear, doubt, insecurity, comparison, pride and we are exhausted to make every piece of our lives parctically perfect. Take a deep breathe and start to love yourself.

Great self-help book, linked to our relationship to God and Bible but even if you are not a Christian, it provides many useful advices to self growth and love for ourselves in these stressful and uncertain times.

I enjoyed it.

[Keerthana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever thought you "should" do something or be in some way or pressured to be that way?
Quieting the shout of should is more than a self help book.it tries to help people appeal to the greater force god and devotion while at the same time offering some practical advice.
The book also contains a series of questions for each topic that the reader can self reflect upon.this book can also be read in book club. The Author also reflects upon her own experiences.

Thank You Netgalley ,author and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review #QuietingtheShoutofShould

[Kate Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not religious so initially found Quiet the Shout of Should difficult to read because it has a lot of Christian references. However, I persevered as I'm keen to work on my shoulds. I tended to read Crystal's stories and skip the religious sections.

Each chapter has a section on different areas where people may feel the pressure of shoulds. This means it could be a useful reference book when you want help in a specific area. I particularly liked the sections on flipping your messaging to something more positive.

[Sue Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obviously aimed at younger women, this book is helpful for those of faith who struggle with the 'I should ...' dominating their lives. I am an older woman but have 'suffered' from this condition all my life so I did find it helpful and will probably re-read it over the summer to help myself stay calm over a very busy period in my life. Thank you for the words of wisdom and opportunity to read this book.

[Allison Meadows · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Quieting the Shout of Should" is something that I struggle with every day. The pull of what you "should" do or even what you "should have" done is sometimes so strong is it hard to hear what you ARE called to do and be. I really enjoyed the space that is given to thoughtfully examine my own heart. Especially helpfully was the statements on how to "flip" the things we tell ourselves we "should" do.

[Pamela Lamp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quieting the Shout of Should
Crystal Stine
August 1, 2020

We all have those voices clattering in our heads, telling us who we should be, how we should act, how we should feel. What do we miss out on because we're busy doing those things we SHOULD do? Crystal combines personal stories with devotions to show us how to let go of perfectionism, worry, and control. With its verses and scripture, this book would make an excellent study for a Bible or church group.