Thursday, September 10, 2015

Book Review: Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso

Our world is increasingly becoming one of scrolling, texting, tweeting, pinning, re-posting, liking and the list goes on. Article after article comes out reminding us to be more present and to get off of our phones. It's a daily challenge. I'm not joking! I have found it a challenge to take time to stop, reflect and read something that is not on a screen. In an effort to combat the screen(s), I made a promise to myself that I would read more this summer. In need of inspiration, I looked to fashion books like #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso.


Image via Elle.com 

Amoruso's story is not typical. After struggling with direction and focus throughout her teenage years and early twenties, she started selling vintage clothing on eBay. The book details her early struggles with finding direction, her humble beginnings on eBay and the eight year growth of Nasty Gal from a small eBay shop to a $100 million plus online fashion retailer with more than 350 employees.

I read a variety of reviews before purchasing this book. They were mixed. You can look up the reviews for yourself, but I wanted to share that Amoruso includes a disclaimer at the very beginning of the book stating that "This book will not teach you how to get rich quick, break into the fashion industry, or start a business. It is neither a feminist manifesto nor a memoir." She is clear that she aims to do nothing more than share her story, inspire us and give us her advice on success. Now that we have that over with, let's jump into the book!

Amoruso's book is broken up chronologically into the phases of her path to success. Each chapter includes a series of suggestions and mantras that she lives by. I took a few of my favorites and included my interpretations and advice on them. If you're looking for more, you'll have to read it yourself!

Fight the Boredom: Millennials have often been accused of wanting success, promotions and changes in their jobs too quickly. If you're bored in your current role, it's probably not the best fit for you. If it is what you want to be doing, find ways to take on new activities in your role. Volunteer, pitch projects, be proactive in finding ways to challenge yourself.

Chaos Magic: While I don't necessarily agree with Amoruso's use of "sigils" ("abstract words or symbols you create and embed with your wishes e.g. internet passwords"), I do believe in the importance of dreaming big and believing in yourself. I find it inspiring to be around those who are always setting new goals and maintaining a positive outlook.

Failure Is Your Invention: It's okay to make mistakes and it's important to keep an open mind and try new things!

"I gave up a long time ago on finding anything that was 100 percent, totally "me". I was not only open to trying on different lifestyles, I forced such experimentation upon myself - always knowing that I'd evolve past it, rarely surprised when I was ready to move on and never so attached that it hindered my growth."

Creativity is everything: "When you don't dress like everyone else, you don't have to think like everyone else." Iris Apfel

Sophia knew her brand was different and she didn't try to be anything other than herself. Don't try to fit in and look like everyone else. Be different and always be yourself.

Overall, I enjoyed reading #Girlboss and learning about Amoruso's story. I also enjoyed reading reviews of #Girlboss, so would be interested in hearing your perspective if you have read it. Please share in the comments whether you liked it or not and why.

Image via Tech Crunch

My copy via Instagram - Anthea__T 

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