“Untamed” by Glennon Doyle – Recommended by Adele
Introduction
“Untamed” by Glennon Doyle is a powerful memoir that has resonated with many readers, including celebrities like Adele. This book encourages readers to listen to their inner voice and embrace their true selves. Published in 2020, it quickly became a bestseller and continues to inspire people worldwide.
Untamed Summary
“Untamed” is both an intimate memoir and a galvanizing wake-up call for women. Doyle shares her journey of self-discovery, detailing how she broke free from societal expectations and learned to trust herself. The book is divided into three parts: “Caged,” “Keys,” and “Free.”
Caged: Doyle describes how she felt trapped by societal norms and expectations. She shares personal stories of her struggles with bulimia, addiction, and an unhappy marriage.
Keys: This section outlines the steps Doyle took to break free from her “cages.” She emphasizes the importance of feeling all emotions, being still, imagining a new life, and letting go of societal conditioning.
Free: Doyle discusses her journey towards freedom, including her relationship with soccer star Abby Wambach and how she learned to live authentically.
Inspirational Quotes
“We can do hard things.”
“The braver we are, the luckier we get.”
Untamed Highlights:
1. The Cheetah Story
Glennon opens the book with a story about a cheetah named Tabitha, who lives in captivity at a safari park. This cheetah, despite being well-fed and cared for, still exhibits wild instincts. Glennon uses this metaphor to illustrate how many people, especially women, feel caged by societal expectations and long to break free.
2. Meeting Abby Wambach
The moment Glennon meets Abby Wambach is both electrifying and transformative. Glennon describes an instant, undeniable connection with Abby, which leads her to reevaluate her life and marriage. This encounter is a turning point in the book, showcasing the power of love and authenticity.
3. The “Knowing”
Glennon introduces the concept of the “Knowing,” an inner voice or intuition that guides her decisions. She shares various instances where trusting this inner voice led her to make bold and life-changing choices. This theme resonates with many readers who struggle with self-doubt and societal pressures.
4. Parenting and Authenticity
Glennon’s reflections on parenting are both humorous and poignant. She discusses the challenges of raising children while staying true to oneself. Her anecdotes about her children and the lessons she learns from them are relatable and often heartwarming.
5. The Metaphor of the Keys
In the “Keys” section, Glennon talks about the metaphorical keys that unlock different aspects of her true self. Each key represents a lesson or realization that helps her break free from her “cage.” This part of the book is filled with insightful and empowering moments.
These sections are just a glimpse into the rich and inspiring content of “Untamed.” Glennon Doyle’s candid storytelling and profound insights make the book a compelling read.
Untamed Characters
Glennon Doyle
Role: Author and protagonist
Description: Glennon Doyle is a writer, activist, and speaker. In “Untamed,” she shares her journey of self-discovery and transformation. She discusses her struggles with addiction, eating disorders, and the challenges of living up to societal expectations. Doyle’s narrative is deeply personal, revealing her vulnerabilities and strengths as she learns to trust herself and live authentically.
Abby Wambach
Role: Glennon’s wife
Description: Abby Wambach is a retired professional soccer player and two-time Olympic gold medalist. In “Untamed,” she plays a significant role as Glennon’s partner. Their relationship is a central theme in the book, symbolizing love, acceptance, and the courage to live one’s truth. Abby’s presence in Glennon’s life helps her embrace her true self and break free from societal norms.
Craig Melton
Role: Glennon’s ex-husband
Description: Craig Melton is Glennon’s former husband and the father of her three children. In the memoir, Glennon discusses their marriage, the challenges they faced, and their eventual separation. Despite their divorce, Glennon and Craig work together to co-parent their children, demonstrating a commitment to their family’s well-being12.
Glennon’s Children
Role: Chase, Tish, and Amma
Description: Glennon and Craig’s three children are an integral part of her story. Glennon often reflects on her role as a mother and how her journey of self-discovery impacts her parenting. She strives to model authenticity and courage for her children, teaching them to trust themselves and live boldly.
Glennon’s Mother
Role: Supportive figure
Description: Glennon’s mother appears in the memoir as a supportive and loving presence. She provides guidance and wisdom, helping Glennon navigate her journey. Their relationship highlights the importance of family support in personal growth.
Sister (Amanda Doyle)
Role: Confidante and supporter
Description: Amanda Doyle, Glennon’s sister, is a close confidante and supporter. She plays a crucial role in Glennon’s life, offering emotional support and practical advice. Their bond is a testament to the strength of sibling relationships.
These characters contribute to the rich tapestry of Glennon Doyle’s life, each playing a vital role in her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment.
Untamed Themes
Self-Discovery: Doyle emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s inner voice and trusting oneself.
Breaking Free from Societal Norms: The memoir challenges societal expectations, particularly those placed on women.
Empowerment: Doyle’s journey is a testament to the power of self-love and empowerment.
Why You Should Read “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle
1. Empowerment and Self-Discovery: “Untamed” is a powerful guide to self-discovery and empowerment. Glennon Doyle’s journey of breaking free from societal expectations and embracing her true self is both inspiring and relatable. Her story encourages readers to listen to their inner voice and trust themselves, making it a must-read for anyone seeking personal growth.
2. Authenticity and Courage: Doyle’s candid and honest storytelling provides a refreshing perspective on living authentically. She shares her struggles and triumphs with raw honesty, which can inspire readers to confront their own fears and embrace their true identities with courage.
3. Practical Advice: The book is filled with practical advice and actionable steps for achieving personal freedom. Doyle’s “Four Keys”—Feel It All, Be Still and Know, Dare to Imagine, and Build and Burn—offer a roadmap for readers to follow on their own journeys towards self-empowerment.
4. Relatable and Inspiring Stories: Doyle’s personal anecdotes, such as the cheetah story and her relationship with Abby Wambach, are both relatable and inspiring. These stories illustrate the universal struggle of feeling caged by societal norms and the liberating experience of breaking free.
5. Challenging Societal Norms: “Untamed” challenges societal expectations, particularly those placed on women. Doyle’s critique of these norms encourages readers to question and redefine their own beliefs and values, promoting a more authentic and fulfilling way of living.
6. Celebrity Endorsement: The book’s endorsement by celebrities like Adele adds to its credibility and appeal. Knowing that influential figures have found value in Doyle’s message can motivate readers to explore the book’s insights for themselves.
Conclusion
Reading “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle is an opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and authenticity. Whether you’re looking for practical advice, relatable stories, or a fresh perspective on societal norms, this memoir offers valuable insights that can inspire and uplift you.