Suffering from a chronic sense of “not enough” from a young age, it took the experience of nearly dying for Aimee Davies to realise that her striving after perfection was destroying her. This memoir shares her journey from self-hate to self-worth and the wild lengths she went to to re-discover herself including mystical brews in South America, living in the jungle, joining a spiritual cult and living like a monk. From her addiction to looking physically perfect to then attempting to be spiritually perfect, Aimee buys into the belief that being perfect will bring her the love and acceptance she needs to find peace. Finally, she has a profound and lasting realisation that stops her frantic search in its tracks and allows her to fall head over heels in love with her imperfect and messy humanness. A timeless and deeply affirming tale of joy lost and re-found, told with breath-taking honesty, Imperfect gets to the very heart of what it means to be human and what it takes to embrace ourselves as we are.
“It is only when we accept our humanness that our divinity is able to shine through us.” Aimee Davies
I absolutely love this book and have read it several times now, gaining something new each time. The first half of the book takes you on the author's journey from self-loathing and addiction towards self-love and self-acceptance. It is a highly immersive and uplifting account of a woman's search for herself and of the redemptive power of darkness as a catalyst for self-discovery. I loved how the book really pulled me into the author's world and I found myself deeply rooting for her the whole way, feeling her despair and then rejoicing as, through her courageous search, she came to profound discoveries that allowed her to reconnect with her inner light. In the second half of the book, the author provides a powerful account of the wisdom she has learned along the way and I found I came away with a treasure trove of profound truths to contemplate as well as valuable advice to practice. I believe everyone should read this book and especially those suffering from a lack of self-esteem and self-worth in a world that constantly invites us to compare our shadows with others' sunlit sides. It's exquisitely written and full of grace and light.
ONE OF MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURITES! The most incredible, and amazing insights of Vedanta / Indian philosophy in this book explained in such an amazing way and applied to a very relatable young woman’s journey from Sydney. We have so many things in common including our unproductive coping styles early on but then a deep value for life, love and mental health. Amazing author and book. She talks about the most important life lessons I’ve learned (and I believe I’ve also applied to date). My favourite example from Vedanta is also included throughout… light (positive thoughts, emotions, developing knowledge and self awareness) is always stronger than darkness (negative thoughts, emotions, ignorance). She also talksextensively of love. It’s bountiful, unlimited, infinite capacity. Also one of my big favourites!!!!
Aimee, would love to connect!! I’m in Sydney too and so pls reach out if you have the time/ space
I almost never leave reviews, probably due to the forever adult winter that I have changed into and that Aimee Davies illuminates in this book. This book has moved me to write a review. It shifts our seasons back around to our lost youthful spring. This book is a companion to life, to be read in succession, or to open up to a page when the spirit is drawn to something more.
This book is honestly amazing, it’s one of those rare books that help you transform and grow! I loved it and think everyone would benefit from reading it!