Soul Shift: The Weary Human's Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy

by Rachel Macy Stafford

Reclaim Joy, Inner Freedom, and Zest for Life.

How often do you feel joy—a truly pure, unadulterated experience of ease, bliss, and happiness? In childhood, our joy arises in the moment, spontaneous and free. But as we become adults, we’re faced with the pressure of increased responsibilities, endless demands, and a barrage of breaking news. And along the way, we forget how to be present in our own lives.

In Soul Shift, Rachel Macy Stafford offers us a practical, inclusive guide to navigating a culture of distraction and depletion to find our way back to what delights our heart, makes us feel alive, and brings us peace. She illuminates how to embody the practice of presence, where we return home to our authentic selves and the joy found only in the here and now.

Like a wise, empathetic friend, Stafford accompanies you on a wondrous exploration of self-discovery. She walks you through a symbolic botanical garden made up of eight areas designed to help you practice: presence, worthiness, letting go of perfection, self-kindness, authenticity, forgiveness, looking after yourself, and cultivating your gifts.

Soul Shift helps you rediscover the joy inside you at a pace that is natural, with an approach that is gentle and practical exercises that are easy to follow. Here, you will learn how to:

• Release external measurements of success so you can focus on what matters
• Respond to life’s challenges with awareness and compassion
• Realign with your heart and the calm presence within
• Create a framework to center you when life steers you off course
• Experience the healing power of presence for yourself and with the ones you love

In practicing this work, “our innermost truths come to the surface,” Stafford writes. “Barriers crumble, the past loses its grip, and we are finally free to show up as our fully human selves and make our unique contributions to the world.”

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Mental Health, Audiobook, Personal Growth, Adult, Personal Development

264 pages, Hardcover

Published March 28, 2023

About the author

Nine years ago, Rachel Macy Stafford admitted the honest answer to the question that had been a long-time source of pride: "How do you do it all?" Rachel's answer was painfully simple: "I miss out on life, and what I miss I cannot get back." That very day, Rachel began her Hands Free journey to let go of distraction, perfection, and societal pressure to grasp what really matters in life. This life-long writer and certified special education teacher felt compelled to share her journey with others through the blog, "Hands Free Mama." Using her skills as a writer, teacher, and encourager, Rachel provides readers with simple, non-intimidating, and motivating methods to let go of distraction and connect with their loved ones. Rachel's work has been featured in USA Today, TIME.com, MSN.com, PBS.com, The Huffington Post, Reader's Digest, and hundreds of other online and print publications. Her blog currently averages one million visitors a month. Rachel loves being outdoors, baking, and volunteering with her family who inspire her daily.

Reviews

[Jess the Shelf-Declared Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listening to this audiobook felt like I was sitting down for a therapy session with the author, and I mean that in the best way possible. The open ended questions she asks as if you really are in front of her helped spark my mind into the right mindset to be open to the information she was providing. This is definitely the kind of book I could see myself revisiting and possibly learning new things the second time around.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my fourth Soul Shift journey with Rachel Macy Stafford (two virtual, one in person and now through this amazing, interactive book) and I find myself still learning and growing through this work every time as my own life and story continues to evolve. Soul Shift is 100% a nightstand book for me ... one I will pick up and pull from different sections as reminders of progress made, choices made for change, and for time with a supportive friend (RMS) by my side - whether I'm faltering or winning in the moment.

Rachel has an amazing gift to make you feel surrounded by her love and grace as she offers lifechanging but simple shifts that help set you to discover the path that is right for YOU to make the changes YOU need to rediscover YOUR joy. The paths taken through this book are different for us all and that's how it's meant to be. You're the one creating and navigating your own path through her prompts and she's the supportive friend to walk alongside you as you make your journey. Rachel's vulnerability as she shares what brought about her discovery of these habit shifts and powerful truths helps remind us that while we may have different stories and experiences, we are all connected and never alone even when the struggles cause us to feel that way. It also opens up the door for us to be vulnerable with ourselves to find the truths and shifts we need to reclaim the joy of our lives.

Thank you Rachel for your presence, your words and the amazing gift each of your books are for so many of us! For those considering buying this book, all I can say is don't wait - it'll be your best decision yet!

[Sue Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading the book as a part of the launch team. Have not finished the book yet, but it is absolutely AWESOME! It is so full of one nugget after another of total brilliant wisdom and guidance!!! I treasure this author's works, and this is no exception. It is a definite 10/10 recommend!!!

This book just literally keeps getting better as I read it! I don’t think I could love it any more! It is a treasure, and I can really imagine reading it over and over forever in little snippets every day as a daily practice! I know I could glean new things from each read.

It’s not just the power of the content, but the comfort and the genius of the writing and words the author uses to portray the content.

I have been so blessed by this book. Thank you Rachel Macy Stafford. You have provided a beautiful and unique ongoing treasure.

I have now decided for sure what a great gift this will be for friends and plan to (pre!) order more!
I always hesitate to give self help type books to friends because I don’t want it to look like I’m saying “you need to do this”! But this book is so so much more.

This book is about community, love, compassion, freedom, authenticity, relationship, journeys, learning, support, seizing moments, noticing moments, sharing moments, we’re-all-in-this-together moments! And so much more. ❤️

[Lorae M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soul Shift is not just a book to read, but a gentle walk through a garden you are tending to along the way. Rachel Macy Stafford guides your on a journey of self discovery, growth, and wholeness. This book feels as if you are having a conversation with your life long best friend and they are sharing advice, stories, and giving you hope as you work through areas of your life that need tending to.

I love that RMS gently encourages you to look back and find your inner “Dreamer Girl” or inner child. She asks you to remember what brought you the most joy as a child. It is easy as adults to go about our days and fill them with routines and requirements that don’t bring us much joy. It is easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle or life, only to realize the stress it is bringing us often leaves us hurting the ones we love, including ourselves, because we become overwhelmed and snap at those we are closest to. RMS encourages us to work to find the things that bring us joy and peace. She shares ways on how to cultivate healthy routines that allow time for the things that fill us with joy, peace, and calm. RMS is honest and open in sharing struggles she has experienced and real life examples of how she has changed her life using the strategies she shares in Soul Shift.

I truly believe this book can help anyone. We all could use a life filled with more joy and laughter. We only get one life to live and no one wants to leave this life with regrets. RMS believes that it is never to late to make changes to your life that will leave you feeling more connected to those that you love. I encourage everyone to take this walk with Rachel. Let her be your friend and guide you on this journey, hand in hand. Rachel Macy Stafford has outdone herself in her latest book!

[Gina Sookiayak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading one or Rachel’s books is like sitting down with a kind, loving friend who is pouring truth into you and helping you to silence that harsh inner critic and see yourself as the wonderful human you are! This book is an absolutely amazing book full of loving steps you can take as you shift into accepting yourself for who you are so you can show up as your best self for those you love! I have all of her books and they are amazing, but this is so hands-on and practical. I’ve gone through her Soul Shift course twice, so I wasn’t sure I would find anything new in the book…but oh was I wrong! This is the next-level with new info and nuggets of wisdom. It’s also beautiful and allows space for processing. I have benefited immensely from reading the book and it has built on the foundation that was laid out in the Soul Shift courses and her other books. All that said, if you’ve never encountered Rachel’s work before, this is still an amazing starting place as well. So blessed by this amazing book—grab yourself a copy you won’t regret it!

[Amy Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soul Shift: the Weary Human’s Guide to Getting Unstuck & Reclaiming Your Path to Joy is unlike any other “self-help” book I have read. It takes the reader on a journey through eight Practice areas: 1)Presence, 2)True Self-Worth, 3)Letting Go of Perfection, 4)Being Kind to Yourself, 5)Being your Authentic Self, 6)Self-Forgiveness, 7)Looking After Yourself and 8)Offering Your Gift to the World. It is a pathway to return to again and again.

Rachel gently guides the reader through these eight areas using stories from her own life, providing heartfelt observations, successes and failures that are easily relatable. She provides journal prompts and exercises (and space within the book to complete them!) creating a living map that makes the journey personal and even more meaningful. Rachel writes, “when we allow our innermost truths to come to the surface, barriers crumble, the past loses its grip, and we are finally free to create healing pathways on which we can travel as our fully human selves, together.”

I recommend this book to anyone who is feeling disconnected from themselves, their life or their loved ones. Rachel reminds us that “We only have so much time and energy; we only have one precious life to live. How do we want to spend it?” and assures us that “Today matters more than yesterday. Your story is still being written.” “When it comes to doing the things we were born to do, there is no timeline. The energy flows when it’s supposed to flow; the ideas appear when we’re open to receive them; the barriers weaken when we allow ourselves to breathe.”

The world needs a Soul Shift…let’s journey on…together.

[Bethany Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy for the launch team. I love Rachel’s writing! It’s always like having a conversation with a close friend. This book is full of 8 different practices and 4 different steps to take to get through the exercise. I read a digital copy so I am really excited to lean into these practices and exercises when I get my physical copy. Rachel has a way of making people feel like they belong. She will help you look at your life in a way that makes you realize it’s never too late to start over or start a practice. I love that her ideas are easy to grasp and the goals are attainable.

[Sharie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It came at a time when I really needed it. I've finished it and went back to re-read a few sections that I found most impactful and gleaned even more insights. I love how she intersperses this with memoir amongst the self-help. It made me feel like I was having a conversation with a friend!

[Kerry Puglisi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am LOVING Rachel Macy Stafford’s newest book, Soul Shift!
Looking forward to having my own hard copy in my hand so I can highlight, underline and record my thoughts as I go through this amazing journey of self-awareness with Rachel as my inspiring guide and cheerleader.
This is a book that I see myself reading again and again and no doubt will keep handy and reference back to as I work towards more self-love.
Release date is: March 28, 2023 get your hands on this beautiful loving book/guide for yourself and those you love!

[Laurie Fazzino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Start here…
The truth is that we are all a bit weary in some aspect of our life whether it be in our relationships with family, children, in-laws or we are facing demands in our professional lives we can’t seem to get control over. Maybe we’re seeking a different lifestyle where we don’t have to sacrifice so much of one thing for something else but the process has gripped our ability to find joy and happiness in everyday happenings. Maybe we are facing challenges that seem unfair and we can’t seem to make sense of the situations that have unfolded in front of us, with us. Maybe the stress of the pandemic and the repercussions of living thru such times has altered our perception of what’s important, what makes us get up and show up in the world. Maybe we are left knowing we have changed, we want something different than what we have today, we know we don’t like or understand the person inside, we want better. We’re then left with the question “where do I begin?”

Start here…
Rachel Macy Stafford’s new book Soul Shift: The Weary Human's Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy is a beautiful living book that grants you permission to start where you are in your life in finding the joy that has become shadowed. Throughout her book Rachel Macy Stafford introduces you to eight practices or entry points that allow you to look into your life to help you understand where you may have lost your way. Her approach is gentle, kind, welcoming, understanding, patient and supportive.

Start here…
Rachel Macy Stafford is an author who writes from a place where you feel you are sitting with a longtime friend. A friend who knows the hardships you have faced, a friend who knows exactly what to say at just the right moment. As you read through Soul Shift, ponder the questions, work thru tangible activities, you’re never left feeling alone in the journey. While your story that brought you to this book is not the same as others, the practices are universal. Let Rachel Macy Stafford’s wisdom in these pages speak to you. Be gentle with yourself and choose a practice that speaks to you as your place to start. Soul Shift is a uniquely designed and thought out book that speaks to the vulnerabilities and tenderness in your soul. This is a living book that helps you face your most authentic truths which will allow you to find joy in your world and to let the world know you as you were meant to be. And yes, “it is possible to shift your current way of thinking.”

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

The whole time I was reading I could feel weight lifted from my shoulders. I felt like I was at a lunch with a friend and we were discussing the ups and downs of life but this friend was amazing at giving me the gift of peace and light. The quote, “I am worthy of showing up for every moment of my life” Gives my heart strength to stand up for who I am and how I am. I love the permission to let go of perfection. The world would be such a happier and more compassionate place if we could all let go of the ideals we set for ourselves and those around us. I love the idea of accepting myself for who I am right now and allowing myself to be that person. I loved the reminder that I need to do that for others on their own journey. What is my gift to the world? I feel that I will continue to discover that over the years as I grow and change and adapt to life and what it throws at me. I love the encouragement to always be searching and improving and at the ame time giving myself grace and space to just be. Thank you Rachel for your words of wisdom and love and peace. I know my soul has experienced a shift and I look forward to future shifts and I create my own personal life garden.

[Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Macy Stafford's words and imagery of a garden with steppingstones definitely inspired me in my exploration of vulnerability and authenticity.

Rachel often signs off with "my hand in yours" and I felt that as I read. Exploring the eight practices that are represented by areas in a garden, and navigating the four steppingstones, or exercises in each, was a very powerful experience.

Relatable stories encourage you when self doubt might begin to creep in while navigating the steppingstones in whatever order and at the speed that suits you. Rachel reminds you with gently and nonjudgmentally, of the little truths you might forget while consumed by your busy days.

"There's no time limit on learning how to love the parts of ourselves we have long abandoned."

"No matter how you lived or what you believed up to this point, it's not too late to begin honoring the parts of yourself that have been silenced, denied or neglected."

Simply put, "Remember there is great power in one positive choice." This book isn't about what Rachel did, it's about what she chooses to do. It's in the daily vulnerable way she shows up, for herself and everyone around her.

Anyone tired of trying to find joy on the outside and feeling a little stuck might want to take a walk along the paths in the Soul Shift garden to see what shifts for you.

[Laura L · Rating 5 out of 5]

After participating in Rachel Macy Stafford’s online Soul Shift sessions and attending her in-person retreat, I was thrilled to hear she was sharing her wisdom in “Soul Shift: The Weary Human’s Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy.”

As with her previous books, Rachel vulnerably shares her own stories and struggles with the reader, making them feel they are not alone. One of my favourite of many nuggets of wisdom from the book is, “Isn’t it when we show each other our scars that we love each other more?”

Rachel’s compassion, warmth and empathy come across as she gently guides the reader through eight Practices — Presence, True Self-Worth, Letting Go of Perfection, Being Kind to Yourself, Being Your Authentic Self, Self-Forgiveness, Looking After Yourself and Offering Your Gift to the World. She promises that, “these pages you hold will become your map to joy, presence, purpose and peace.”

As the cover hints, the book is set up like a beautiful botanical garden where you are free to explore its footpaths in whatever way you wish. Rachel emphasizes there is no right or wrong way to interact with it and no pressure to be perfect. There are lots of prompts for reflecting and plenty of blank space for journaling and doodling, giving it an airy feel.

If the last few years of a global pandemic have left you searching for the joy you have lost, this book is for you. If you are a weary human — perhaps a stay-at-home mom or dad, a parent of teenagers, an isolated virtual worker, a caregiver to aging parents or if you're juggling so many roles you have lost yourself — this book is definitely for you.

If you’re like me, you’ll keep “Soul Shift” on your nightstand and return to it again and again during the different seasons of your life.

[Rachael Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was first introduced to Rachel Macy Stafford's writing several years ago with her book, Hands Free Mama. Her writing is genuine and relatable. Her latest work, Soul Shift is no different. She shares with transparency, stories from her own life about feeling stuck and lost in the demands of life. "As tempting as it sounds to wish for an escape, what we actually need is an exploration, one that returns us home to our authentic selves and the joy inside." This book provides prompts and space for that exploration and self-reflection. Stafford's invitation for this introspection is thought provoking and helpful in developing tools for getting unstuck and finding fulfillment. As I read this book, I wanted to take the time and space for this internal work in my journal. It felt natural, unhurried, and I still want to go back to spend more time on this. As a mental health counselor, I appreciate the ways she has integrated the need for boundaries, self talk, and other tools I often use with clients. It's done in a non-threatening, yet challenging way which promotes personal growth.
If you are looking for a resource to guide you through activities such as this, I highly commend this work to you. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Pre-order your copy today as the book is released March 28th!

[Tammy A Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just starting! I want to savor this book, like all Rachel’s books~ her messages always come at the perfect time! Digging in…

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book and the ways it reminded me of my importance and my value in the world. To turn off the negative voice in your head that can stop you from fully enjoying and engaging with life and those around you. To call up our inner child and remember what used to bring you happiness. Rachel Macy Stafford has such a gentleness in her writing- not criticizing what we get “wrong” about our behaviors in this crazy world of rushing and trying to do it all and be perfect. But praising what we get right- and we get a lot right, more than we think- and showing us to be kind to ourselves and each other.

[Lily Heron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been eagerly keeping an eye out for examples of my favourite non-fiction writers reflecting on their experiences and growth during quarantine and the COVID pandemic. Rachel Macy Stafford writes from the perspective of a loving mother grappling with distraction and overwhelm, and I always find her work intensely relatable because she has such high aspirations, while always remaining humble enough to recognise her own mistakes and stumbling blocks. While sharing her vulnerabilities so openly, she writes with beautiful ease and poetic charm. Like the best children's stories, her work is easy to read yet the simple format disguises the rich, complex life lessons on the page. The author uses the extended metaphor of a garden to explore the Soul Shift universe, and in much the same way as a garden through the seasons, I felt the bloom of life and the encouragement to rest.

If you enjoyed any of the author's previous work, you will love Soul Shift. If you enjoy reflective self-help that feels like a conversation with a loving friend or a kind teacher, this is the book for you. If you don't enjoy examples driven by the author's own family life, or religious overtones, this probably isn't the book for you.

disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from Sounds True Publishing via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Monica · Rating 2 out of 5]

Soul Shift is part memoir, part "self help" that encourages exploring the areas of presence, worthiness, letting go of perfection, self-kindness, authenticity, forgiveness, looking after yourself, and cultivating your gifts.

It sounded promising enough, but this just wasn't the book for me and I resorted to skimming after the first couple sections. If someone is new to practicing mindfulness or has interest in this author's life story, this could be the right fit. I am neither, and I found Soul Shift to be overly prescriptive, lacking evidence, repetitive, and leaning too far into memoir.

Thank you to Sounds True Publishing and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC to review! I wish it was a better fit.

[Michelle DeFord · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Rachel Macy Stafford and Sounds True for an Advanced Reader Copy of Soul Shift: The Weary Human’s Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy.

Soul Shift, by Rachel Macy Stafford is a how-to guide in laying down distraction, busyness, guilt, shame, and self-deprecating thoughts to rediscover the joy that has been forgotten and left behind. Stafford uses eight practices to help readers explore patterns in their lives that have become toxic and unhealthy. Discovering these patterns and researching the root causes are used to help readers work toward inner peace. Readers have the freedom to go at their own pace and truly use her words and “stepping stones” in the creation of their own life map of self-discovery.

I have been an avid fan of Rachel Macy Stafford since reading her first book, Hands Free Mama. Her writing resonates with me as if talking to a dear friend. Her honesty is refreshing, and I often recommend her books to my students as they prepare to become classroom teachers. Stafford’s writing has always encouraged me to rethink what is REALLY important in life, making me a better wife, parent, daughter, and friend. Soul Shift brings many of her early discoveries about the human heart together to focus on how we can all be the best versions of ourselves. Much of this book helped me reflect on my own season of life, and the seasons of friends who find themselves struggling. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to remember what brings them true joy in spite of their current circumstances. In this book, Stafford encourages all of us to “…speak of remarkable things today – the things that make you feel alive…the things that bring you peace…the things that fill your eyes with tears…the things that feel like a ‘scary yes.’” Couldn’t we all use a little dose of “remarkable” each day?

[Brooke Neville · Rating 5 out of 5]

After only the first page, I was in tears. Relieved. Like Jesus was speaking straight to my heart. Rachel provides immediate direction and guidance on how to implement her methods…her life experiences resonate with me greatly. I really related to her foot surgery because of my recent hysterectomy recovery. I am tired of feeling uncomfortable …from that uncomfortableness a painful truth surfaced… By trying to be someone I am not, I am devaluing myself hurting my family. I haven’t stopped thinking about that line in the book.
The boundaries work was also very helpful. She reminded us of this: “terrain isn’t as much about overcoming the need to be perfect… It’s about overcoming the fear of not being enough.” Like Rachel, I hate it when my schedule is derailed… I overreact. I learned that I have been basing my happiness on specific outcomes, many of which I have little or no control over. I asked myself after this section am I sacrificing my joy and peace to hold on to perfection? That answer prompted some of the best conversations I’ve had with my husband and teen children in years The self-evaluation sections were both rich and convicting. I can’t wait to get the hard copy so I can write all over it!
If you are looking for a relatable book that offers freedom where you are bound and instruction where you are stuck, this is it. My chest is lighter, my breath is deeper and my relationships are already benefiting.
I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel when she was promoting “Hands Free Mama” waaaay long ago. What a gem of a human she is. I’m thankful to have followed her journey this long. I’m also so thankful she fights through the struggle and writes about it.
I too have a Noticer in my house and thanks to Rachel I slow down for him more.
I couldn’t wait to review this book so I haven’t finished it completely yet. I may come back and add more praise soon!

[Alisa Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything Rachel writes is full of wisdom and comes exactly when I need it. Soul Shift is no different. It comes out in one week, and comes with my highest recommendation.

[Ryann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so eye opening and gave me so many tools to live my most authentic life. I loved it so much!

[Danee' · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to receive an advanced copy of Souk Shift. This piece of work is truly soul shifting for readers. Rachel weaves stories that show great vulnerability and relatability into each practice. This guide provides clear and practical ways for readers to work through a process to healing. All of Rachel’s work is a balm to weary souls and this book is no different. This is not a book to read, it’s a book to put into practice as an experience.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Soul Shift is a guidebook to take with you on a discovery process. The soul shift journey focuses on eight vital practice areas: Presence, True self-worth, Letting go of perfection, Being kind to yourself, Being your authentic self, Self-forgiveness, Looking after yourself, and Offering your gift to the world.

Just because you haven't found your people, doesn't mean your ability to connect has been lost.
Just because local circles haven't opened for you, doesn't mean you ability to belong is broken.
Just because no one in your vicinity shares your interests or passions, doesn't mean you are uninteresting, or your passions are unworthy of pursuit.
Your people may not be within walking distance, but believe they exist.
Your community may not be easy to find, but believe they exist.
Rejection and isolation can take damaging tolls, even lead you to believe there is something "wrong" with you.But have you considered this?
Maybe it's not you...
Maybe it's where you've been planted.
Perhaps the soil, sunlight, and conditions in which you are trying to live, breathe, and flourish are what's wrong for you.
Maybe it's not you...
Maybe it's where you've been planted.
Your precious self is worthy of good soil.

ASSURANCE FOR YOUR POCKET
May someone's disapproving words, "You've changed," not deter you.
May someone's dismissal not drag you down.

The book had some endearing stories and wise words for the soul, but not every chapter spoke directly to me, and I found it to be a bit repetitive and more memoir than I would have liked. I had different expectations, and the book didn't quite land for me.

[Rachel Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first of Stafford’s books that I’ve purchased. I’ve known of this author for years, but these words on the cover convinced me to pre-order this book:“The weary human’s guide to getting unstuck and reclaiming your path to joy.” Clearly this book was written for me.
I immediately liked the invitation to read the book out of order. Life isn’t a linear journey; neither is the kind of journey laid out in the book. Each chapter is presented as a “practice” rather than a solution or problem or even an ideal, and as a starting place with ways to grow, and it has a “how will this look as it takes root in your life” section. Some things are more practical and others

more philosophical; it all adds up to a path that will probably be worth taking multiple times. Nothing feels burdensome. Stafford’s message is always encouraging, accepting and inclusive, never feels like “one more thing” you “should” be doing, and gently points out the things that need attention or work.
This book is for anyone who feels like they have gotten lost in the midst of the daily demands of life, is trying to rediscover their deepest self, or who wants to see themself more clearly. It’s for somebody who’s realized they have deep, unresolved needs or wounds that prevent them from living authentically. It’s also for anyone walking alongside a person in any of those situations - a teenager, young adult, friend, family member, spouse, client or coworker... This book is for a person who’s looking to cultivate - in themselves and in their relationships - trust, compassion, empathy, healthy boundaries, acceptance, connection, courage.

[Jill M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a longtime fan of Rachel Macy Stafford and have read all of her previous books, so it was a no-brainer for me to pre-order Soul Shift. I have been reading an advance launch team copy and have already found so many things to love and highlight.

First, the subtitle says it all: “The Weary Human’s Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy.” Because who among us ISN’T weary and short on joy after three years of a global pandemic, political division, climate crises, and the skyrocketing cost of living? What I appreciate most about Stafford’s writing is that she doesn’t claim to have all of the answers, and she doesn’t tell you what to do. Rather, she is a wise friend, telling her own stories and helping you see ways to improve your relationship with yourself and others. As a person who has struggled with depression for many years, I value her suggestions and have seen how well they work in my own life. This quote in particular resonated with me: “You will likely encounter people who won’t understand your choice, your approach, or what you need to thrive. But you don’t need them to understand; you don’t need anyone’s approval or permission to do what you know is right for you.”

I highly recommend this book (and Stafford’s other titles!) to anyone who is interested in making small and large shifts to improve their quality of life and relationships. The writing is approachable, and this book in particular is full of exercises to help guide you towards more joy. More joy? Yes, please!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every so often a book shows up in my life and it leaves me a different person after digesting the content. I can confidently say that Soul Shift: The Weary Human’s Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy is one of them and will remain a constant presence in my life.

The way Soul Shift is written allows the reader to meander through the sections from front to back or in the order that calls to their heart, which creates a beautiful space to explore what truly motivates joy within your heart and soul. Rachel Macy Stafford writes from such a vulnerable place in her own life, and through her wisdom gained, offers actionable steps to follow and guides her readers to truths often buried deep or long forgotten.

I already look forward to starting back on several of my favorite sections and continuing to delve deeper into her soul shift exercises. I can see the small changes emerging already - a clearer perspective of self, a realization of lifelong dreams tucked away, a return to the person hidden inside as shame and anxiety took over life. If you are missing the joy you know you want to get out of life, this book is exactly what can help guide you to finding your way back!

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soul Shift by Rachel Macy Stafford serves as a blueprint for changing your mindset, your life and with it the lives of others. One of the greatest things about making a Soul Shift is that while you initially start the work to better yourself and those closest to you through making changes in yourself; you are also quietly changing the world around you.

We all see the comments about treating everyone with kindness because you don’t know what someone is going through. But through Soul Shift you are learning how to treat yourself with grace and kindness on the road to happiness and joy, which can only help to put that out into the world as well.

The journey to shifting your soul may not be the easiest of trips to take, but Rachel’s words and concepts serve as a gentle nudge, a gentle hug and a shoulder to lean on along the way. I’ve found this book to be like a weighted blanket for a weary heart and mind. It can feel heavy at times, but then with Rachel’s hand in yours (figuratively speaking of course), you begin to feel the safety and security in learning about yourself and in trusting yourself.

[Kalea Friant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful. This book is titled so perfectly because again and again it spoke directly to my SOUL. I feel seen and validated and not alone, AND I feel hope. Life can change. I can change my inner life to make changes in my outer life and that will make a difference to those around me.
Not only did this book give me hope, it gave me directions. It told me how to reflect and what to do with those reflections in a way that was loving to me, AND will get results. Will help me SHIFT. I just finished and am ready to start again with new colored pens and highlighters and really DO it.
Rachel’s writing is like a warm hug to my heart each time I read it. I can’t wait to be hugged again on each page as I follow the path she leads me on.

If this helps anyone: I’m usually an e-reader reader, and that’s how I read it the first time, but I am now waiting for the physical copy to arrive so I can write in it, as it was intended. If I was better disciplined I could journal while reading the electronic version, but I’m not. And, it is totally worth me paying for it twice to get the book in my hand!

[Trisha Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a treasure of ideas to be read and used over and over again. Life is tough for all of us in one way or another, but whatever season of life you are in, Rachel Macy Stafford has proven paths to help get you through. Each practice in the book has a story, a healing truth, a few stepping stones to help you along your path, a peaceful spot to let ideas sink in, and assurances for your pocket which are the most valuable take-away ideas. You can spend a day, a week, or a month on a certain practice.... whatever feels right to you. From one weary human to another, I can recommend this book wholeheartedly. It is a process that I plan to use over and over again. I love being able to read, write and think in the book and each person has their own take-away. How can one book be personalized for so many different people? You get out of it what you are willing to put in but I find myself returning to the practices that I need the most help with. Rachel Macy Stafford has a way with words that speaks directly to my soul and this book seems like a real gift to us all.