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Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Nonfiction (2020)You can choose hope in the midst of chaos. The visionary behind the million-strong IF:Gathering challenges you to exercise your God-given power to shift negative thinking patterns and take back control of your thoughts and emotions.
Are your thoughts holding you captive? I’ll never be good enough. Other people have better lives than I do. God couldn’t really love me. Jennie Allen knows what it’s like to swirl in a spiral of destructive thoughts, but she also knows we don’t have to stay stuck in toxic thinking patterns.
As she discovered in her own life, God built a way for us to escape that downward spiral. Freedom comes when we refuse to be victims to our thoughts and realize we have already been equipped with power from God to fight and win the war for our minds.
In Get Out of Your Head, Jennie inspires and equips us to transform our emotions, our outlook, and even our circumstances by taking control of our thoughts. Our enemy is determined to get in our heads to make us feel helpless, overwhelmed, and incapable of making a difference for the kingdom of God. But when we submit our minds to Christ, the promises and goodness of God flood our lives in remarkable ways.
It starts in your head. And from there, the possibilities are endless.
Are your thoughts holding you captive? I’ll never be good enough. Other people have better lives than I do. God couldn’t really love me. Jennie Allen knows what it’s like to swirl in a spiral of destructive thoughts, but she also knows we don’t have to stay stuck in toxic thinking patterns.
As she discovered in her own life, God built a way for us to escape that downward spiral. Freedom comes when we refuse to be victims to our thoughts and realize we have already been equipped with power from God to fight and win the war for our minds.
In Get Out of Your Head, Jennie inspires and equips us to transform our emotions, our outlook, and even our circumstances by taking control of our thoughts. Our enemy is determined to get in our heads to make us feel helpless, overwhelmed, and incapable of making a difference for the kingdom of God. But when we submit our minds to Christ, the promises and goodness of God flood our lives in remarkable ways.
It starts in your head. And from there, the possibilities are endless.
223 pages, Hardcover
First published January 28, 2020
About the author
Jennie Allen
69 books1,818 followersJennie Allen is a passionate leader and visionary following God's call to inspire women to encounter the invisible God. With a Master's in Biblical Studies from DTS, Jennie is the author of two Bible studies, Stuck, a CBA best-seller, and Chase, and the ECPA "New Author of the Year" winner of Anything and Restless, which also includes a DVD-based study. The founder of IF: Gathering, Jennie, and her husband Zac, have four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,907 reviews
October 23, 2020
I really, REALLY tried to finish this book, and I did make it 2/3 of the way. Local friends chose it for book club, and met weekly to discuss each chapter. But it slowly became an unbearable source of frustration and annoyance to me, so I finally dropped it.
Here’s a paragraph that exemplifies my two biggest problems with it:
————————————————————————
I recently posted on Instagram this quote often attributed to Andrew Murray:
“Humility is perfect quietness of heart.... It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me and when I am blamed or despised. It is to have a blessed home in the Lord, where I can go in and shut the door, and kneel to my Father in secret, and am at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and above is trouble.”
The comments in response to this post were priceless:
“Wow. This is difficult.
“How rare.”
“Whoa. That hurts. “
———————————————————————-
1 Does she really need to bookend a quote by referring to her social media following?!? The entire book is chock full of her American lifestyle, her family stories, and her personal experiences, though they usually seemed barely related to the content. I think she intended to be vulnerable and relatable to the reader but it was frustrating to me, who does not relate to her, and doesn’t read personal growth books because I want a hug. I want concise, solid, and well-studied content. I want a book written by a successful expert in the field, not a well-meaning blogger. Which brings me to my next point.
2 That quote on humility. That is not what humility is. It’s twisting the meaning of words to make a point. That happens in every single chapter. I had red flags going off constantly and it made it extremely difficult to pick out the bones in my search for good content. The book is not founded on Biblical principles or on psychology, though she does use both to support her points. The book is based on an idea that hit her as she was running. The idea is fine, but there is a definite lack of depth or actual experience here. It feels like an extrovert rambling about an idea they had after watching a TEDx talk.... which is exactly what it is.
Maybe I’m being unfair. This book is exactly what it’s meant to be, a pop-Christian self-help book written by an ‘influencer’ with a following. Most of the ladies in my book club loved it, and I think most middle class American women will - the references to Starbucks, scrolling on social media, and Netflix binging are right up their alley and are included abundantly to cater to them. It was overwhelmingly cringy to me, but I realize I’m in the minority. The points of the book are fine, even if the delivery gave me an eye twitch.
If you’re wanting a meaty deep-dive into challenging and changing your thought-life, I HIGHLY recommend Telling Yourself the Truth by William Backus and Marie Chapian. I started it soon after I started this one and it is written by experienced and knowledgeable psychologists and counselors and based on Biblical principles. It’s been extremely challenging and eye-opening and I’m actively applying it to my thought-life and helping my children through the principles as well.
Here’s a paragraph that exemplifies my two biggest problems with it:
————————————————————————
I recently posted on Instagram this quote often attributed to Andrew Murray:
“Humility is perfect quietness of heart.... It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me and when I am blamed or despised. It is to have a blessed home in the Lord, where I can go in and shut the door, and kneel to my Father in secret, and am at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and above is trouble.”
The comments in response to this post were priceless:
“Wow. This is difficult.
“How rare.”
“Whoa. That hurts. “
———————————————————————-
1 Does she really need to bookend a quote by referring to her social media following?!? The entire book is chock full of her American lifestyle, her family stories, and her personal experiences, though they usually seemed barely related to the content. I think she intended to be vulnerable and relatable to the reader but it was frustrating to me, who does not relate to her, and doesn’t read personal growth books because I want a hug. I want concise, solid, and well-studied content. I want a book written by a successful expert in the field, not a well-meaning blogger. Which brings me to my next point.
2 That quote on humility. That is not what humility is. It’s twisting the meaning of words to make a point. That happens in every single chapter. I had red flags going off constantly and it made it extremely difficult to pick out the bones in my search for good content. The book is not founded on Biblical principles or on psychology, though she does use both to support her points. The book is based on an idea that hit her as she was running. The idea is fine, but there is a definite lack of depth or actual experience here. It feels like an extrovert rambling about an idea they had after watching a TEDx talk.... which is exactly what it is.
Maybe I’m being unfair. This book is exactly what it’s meant to be, a pop-Christian self-help book written by an ‘influencer’ with a following. Most of the ladies in my book club loved it, and I think most middle class American women will - the references to Starbucks, scrolling on social media, and Netflix binging are right up their alley and are included abundantly to cater to them. It was overwhelmingly cringy to me, but I realize I’m in the minority. The points of the book are fine, even if the delivery gave me an eye twitch.
If you’re wanting a meaty deep-dive into challenging and changing your thought-life, I HIGHLY recommend Telling Yourself the Truth by William Backus and Marie Chapian. I started it soon after I started this one and it is written by experienced and knowledgeable psychologists and counselors and based on Biblical principles. It’s been extremely challenging and eye-opening and I’m actively applying it to my thought-life and helping my children through the principles as well.
January 28, 2020
I wanted to really like this book. The premise resonated with me. However, in the end, it wasn't what I was expecting. While the author acknowledges at one point about differing personalities (she being an enneagram "7" and her sister being a "6" and introvert v. extrovert), it feels like the suggestions offered are more of the one-size-fits-all variety. I also had a tough time following the organization of the book, this could be due to the e-book formatting. She uses graphics of spirals, but didn't really walk through how the spiral matched with the chapter. I think what I was really looking for was in Part 3 of the book. By then, though, I was skimming. I will potentially go back and read that portion again. All in all, I think some people will really like this book. But, for some, like myself, it will be hard to relate. This is written from the point-of-view of a very energetic (enneagram 7) author who had an 18 month bout of anxiety. It's not written with the understanding that some face some degrees of these anxious thoughts as their daily norm.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.
April 21, 2022
Perhaps the worst book I’ve ever tried to read. I tried really hard to finish this, but might be my first DNF. It’s illogical and extremely poorly written. If you are the right demographic, I suppose it offers some confirmation bias by very, very poorly linking scripture with science.
I’m paraphrasing here, but... At one point she writes: you know that Bruno Mars song where he says he’ll jump on a grenade for you? Hate to break it to you, but he actually won’t... God will though! Immediately followed by how her daughter got stuck in a bathroom and her sons’ attempt get her out was like Jesus’ strength and determination. What?!?
If somebody told me this was a parody, I probably could have finished it and laughed a lot.
I’m paraphrasing here, but... At one point she writes: you know that Bruno Mars song where he says he’ll jump on a grenade for you? Hate to break it to you, but he actually won’t... God will though! Immediately followed by how her daughter got stuck in a bathroom and her sons’ attempt get her out was like Jesus’ strength and determination. What?!?
If somebody told me this was a parody, I probably could have finished it and laughed a lot.
January 11, 2020
This book was even better than I thought. I have read a lot on neuroscience and a lot on neuroscience combined with scripture, But I really found helpful the lies or negative thoughts she would state and the truths and ways to turn the downward spirals around. Even if you are not someone depressed or anxious there are other big thoughts in this book that will bring conviction with hope and a roadmap to change. I’ve enjoyed listening to the podcasts that go along with each of the chapters and will be released when the book releases.
Some of my favorite quotes:
«But in Christ we can fight not from a place of insecurity and outrage but from a place of reconciliation. Of calm confidence. Of peace. Of love. Why? Because our victory is sure. We’ve already won» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The way of Jesus shifts everything. In Jesus, we can acknowledge our frustration, pain, and suffering without abdicating our peace and joy. In Jesus, we can change where we fight from without changing what we fight for. By the power of Jesus, we can demonstrate to ourselves and others that, regardless of how grim the situation seems, God is in the business of redeeming all things. Out of gratitude to Jesus, we can see God’s purposes in our pain» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«My besties know my fixations because those fixations aren’t easily hidden. Our fixations come out in our words, in our feelings, and in our decisions. They are the focus of the books we read, the podcasts we subscribe to, the websites we scour, the groups we join, and the obsessions we pursue.
Are you fixated on the fear that your kid will someday rebel? You’re going to read a lot of parenting books.
Are you anxious about getting sick or not being uber-healthy? You’ll listen to tons of health podcasts and spend a small fortune on essential oils» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«He has given us the power and the tools and His Spirit to shift the spiral. When we’re willing to take the initiative here? Some pretty cool stuff starts to unfold.
When we think new thoughts, we physically alter our brains.
When we think new thoughts, we make healthier neural connections.
When we think new thoughts, we blaze new trails.
When we think new thoughts, everything changes for us.» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«When we’re spiraling in noise or distractedness, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through stillness.
When we’re spiraling in isolation, we have a choice to shift our minds back» («to God through community.
When we’re spiraling in anxiety, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through trust in His good and sovereign purposes.
When we’re spiraling in cynicism, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through worship.
When we’re spiraling in self-importance, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through humility.
When we’re spiraling into victimhood, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through gratitude.
When we’re spiraling in complacency, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through serving Him and others» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
Usually, however, he is sneaky. He tempts with successes and hypnotizes with comforts until we are numb to and apathetic about all that matters» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«If you want your child to thrive, then make him or her feel seen and loved» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«How often have we chosen to be unhappy? Rather than seeing the best and celebrating the good, we have chosen to see only the struggles and complain» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism is always driven by fear of the future or by anger regarding the past» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism is destroying our ability to delight in the world around us and fully engage with others. God has an abundance of joy and delight for us, and we’re missing it with arms crossed. What if there was another way to live» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«cynicism usually grows because we think we deserve better than we are getting» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Beauty interrupts us, it awakens us, it undoes us, it cuts us open, and restarts our hearts. Beauty is God’s evidence of something far more wonderful coming, a world beyond the one we can imagine, even in the most spectacular moments here» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Good things happen when we train our attention on that which is beautiful, on that which is authentic and compelling and good» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism puts our minds on things of this earth, and we lose hope. Beauty points our gaze toward the heavens and reminds us of hope» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«We worship when we experience awe.
And cynicism and worship cannot coexist» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The answer convicts me every time. “When he was reviled,” verse 23 says, “he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«When we are puffed up with thoughts of how important we are, our mirror neurons are impaired. That’s why, in my spiraling of self-importance, truly understanding my coworker’s point of view was nearly impossible» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«We find our “enoughness” only in Christ. If anything, God’s Word tells us to camp out on the opposite view from the one our culture holds: when we’re weak, it’s actually a good thing, because Christ’s power is made more evident in us» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The truth is, our hearts aren’t really after power; they’re after joy. And the deception we buy into is that somehow joy will come when we have power. Joy comes when we lay aside our power and rest in God’s. Joy comes when we put the emphasis where it belongs: on God’s awesomeness, not our own.17» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
There are many more I highlighted but just go read the book. I’m looking forward to my hard copy arriving to I can mark it up and come back to it.
Some of my favorite quotes:
«But in Christ we can fight not from a place of insecurity and outrage but from a place of reconciliation. Of calm confidence. Of peace. Of love. Why? Because our victory is sure. We’ve already won» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The way of Jesus shifts everything. In Jesus, we can acknowledge our frustration, pain, and suffering without abdicating our peace and joy. In Jesus, we can change where we fight from without changing what we fight for. By the power of Jesus, we can demonstrate to ourselves and others that, regardless of how grim the situation seems, God is in the business of redeeming all things. Out of gratitude to Jesus, we can see God’s purposes in our pain» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«My besties know my fixations because those fixations aren’t easily hidden. Our fixations come out in our words, in our feelings, and in our decisions. They are the focus of the books we read, the podcasts we subscribe to, the websites we scour, the groups we join, and the obsessions we pursue.
Are you fixated on the fear that your kid will someday rebel? You’re going to read a lot of parenting books.
Are you anxious about getting sick or not being uber-healthy? You’ll listen to tons of health podcasts and spend a small fortune on essential oils» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«He has given us the power and the tools and His Spirit to shift the spiral. When we’re willing to take the initiative here? Some pretty cool stuff starts to unfold.
When we think new thoughts, we physically alter our brains.
When we think new thoughts, we make healthier neural connections.
When we think new thoughts, we blaze new trails.
When we think new thoughts, everything changes for us.» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«When we’re spiraling in noise or distractedness, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through stillness.
When we’re spiraling in isolation, we have a choice to shift our minds back» («to God through community.
When we’re spiraling in anxiety, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through trust in His good and sovereign purposes.
When we’re spiraling in cynicism, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through worship.
When we’re spiraling in self-importance, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through humility.
When we’re spiraling into victimhood, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through gratitude.
When we’re spiraling in complacency, we have a choice to shift our minds back to God through serving Him and others» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
Usually, however, he is sneaky. He tempts with successes and hypnotizes with comforts until we are numb to and apathetic about all that matters» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«If you want your child to thrive, then make him or her feel seen and loved» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«How often have we chosen to be unhappy? Rather than seeing the best and celebrating the good, we have chosen to see only the struggles and complain» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism is always driven by fear of the future or by anger regarding the past» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism is destroying our ability to delight in the world around us and fully engage with others. God has an abundance of joy and delight for us, and we’re missing it with arms crossed. What if there was another way to live» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«cynicism usually grows because we think we deserve better than we are getting» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Beauty interrupts us, it awakens us, it undoes us, it cuts us open, and restarts our hearts. Beauty is God’s evidence of something far more wonderful coming, a world beyond the one we can imagine, even in the most spectacular moments here» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Good things happen when we train our attention on that which is beautiful, on that which is authentic and compelling and good» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«Cynicism puts our minds on things of this earth, and we lose hope. Beauty points our gaze toward the heavens and reminds us of hope» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«We worship when we experience awe.
And cynicism and worship cannot coexist» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The answer convicts me every time. “When he was reviled,” verse 23 says, “he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«When we are puffed up with thoughts of how important we are, our mirror neurons are impaired. That’s why, in my spiraling of self-importance, truly understanding my coworker’s point of view was nearly impossible» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«We find our “enoughness” only in Christ. If anything, God’s Word tells us to camp out on the opposite view from the one our culture holds: when we’re weak, it’s actually a good thing, because Christ’s power is made more evident in us» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
«The truth is, our hearts aren’t really after power; they’re after joy. And the deception we buy into is that somehow joy will come when we have power. Joy comes when we lay aside our power and rest in God’s. Joy comes when we put the emphasis where it belongs: on God’s awesomeness, not our own.17» (Get Out of Your Head, Jennie Allen). PocketBook Reader
There are many more I highlighted but just go read the book. I’m looking forward to my hard copy arriving to I can mark it up and come back to it.
July 13, 2020
So I was gonna give this two stars just based in the subject matter, but after consideration I’ve decided that I just can’t. I truly can’t recommend this to anyone and feel like this will truly help someone struggling with anxiety.
I wish this was a book about leaning on Jesus and what we can do practically to stop the thoughts that make us spiral, and there really are some good points that she makes, but they are all clouded by the author talking about what SHE learned and what SHE figured out. Showing how together she is and look at all SHE’s done and SHE’S writing a book and this is how SHE lives so you should too, with scripture and quotes taken out of context to fit whatever narrative she’s talking about in that paragraph. Furthermore, she does it all under the guise of seeming humble - using strange stories to convey a quirky sense of relatability that just isn’t there. She leans on the stories of the people around her, because she truly has never had anything truly difficult happen to her (at least that she talks about within the book). This felt more like reading someone’s journal than someone truly writing for someone else’s pain.
While there are some good points made in this book, it’s really heavy in christianese and never dives to anything deeper than surface level.
I can appreciate too, that this book may be super helpful for some people - but I believe that is only going to be a very specific type of person.
I wish this was a book about leaning on Jesus and what we can do practically to stop the thoughts that make us spiral, and there really are some good points that she makes, but they are all clouded by the author talking about what SHE learned and what SHE figured out. Showing how together she is and look at all SHE’s done and SHE’S writing a book and this is how SHE lives so you should too, with scripture and quotes taken out of context to fit whatever narrative she’s talking about in that paragraph. Furthermore, she does it all under the guise of seeming humble - using strange stories to convey a quirky sense of relatability that just isn’t there. She leans on the stories of the people around her, because she truly has never had anything truly difficult happen to her (at least that she talks about within the book). This felt more like reading someone’s journal than someone truly writing for someone else’s pain.
While there are some good points made in this book, it’s really heavy in christianese and never dives to anything deeper than surface level.
I can appreciate too, that this book may be super helpful for some people - but I believe that is only going to be a very specific type of person.
June 8, 2020
I personally found this book incredibly helpful in identifying the root cause of a lot of my unhappiness and lack of fulfillment.
Thoughts are mighty powerful things, and they are treated as such in this book. I especially related to chapter 11, but every chapter tackles a necessary area to reframe our thoughts and behavior around, so definitely don’t skip any chapters! There is something to learn and wisdom to gain on every page if you’re looking for it.
I finished this book feeling encouraged and emboldened, and excited to get back on track with Jesus! So, obviously, I’d recommend!
Thoughts are mighty powerful things, and they are treated as such in this book. I especially related to chapter 11, but every chapter tackles a necessary area to reframe our thoughts and behavior around, so definitely don’t skip any chapters! There is something to learn and wisdom to gain on every page if you’re looking for it.
I finished this book feeling encouraged and emboldened, and excited to get back on track with Jesus! So, obviously, I’d recommend!
May 4, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, but it didn’t live up to my expectations. I appreciate Jennie being open about her own struggles with doubt, but I found the book to be repetitive and fluffy. There were pieces of practical advice sprinkled throughout the book, but nothing that we haven’t already heard. If you’re looking for a Bible study book that can help spark group conversation this would probably be great, but if you’re hoping for a book that gets into the weeds of toxic thoughts, you won’t find it here.
June 2, 2020
The title of this made me think it was going to be something different than it was, haha. I was expecting more of a self-help book but didn't even make it through the introduction before being turned off by the religious talk. My own fault for not reading more about the book before reading the book.
May 1, 2020
I am halfway through and already skimming. Another peppy “Jesus is the answer” book by an outgoing energetic woman of God.
I have enjoyed hearing Jennie talk at past conferences and the idea of negative thoughts diminishing my joy struck a chord. Unfortunately, Jennie it a little too bouncy, happy Christian for me to ever really connect.
Have there been good points? Yes.
Does it seem to be “one size fits all?” Yes.
Does the author use an 18 month bout with doubt to back her insights? Yes
Will people love this book? Yes. It is a pretty tidy little book filled with what to do, say and think to reclaim your mind from the devil (because he wants us to fail...) so you can live free.
I will finish this book and come back to share my final thoughts and maybe change my initial star review (2) but I will stick with the Rachel Held Evans, Jen Hatmakers and Sarah Besseys of the faith when I am looking for someone to share the thought battles that run through my head. I appreciate what Jennie has to say, but I do not connect with her material.
Back again. I was ready to update my review and maybe move to a 3 (since I can’t give 2.5) after reading the chapter on community and friendships. Then I read the chapter on fear... it was ok.
Next came the chapter on cynicism. It will take a lot for me to finish this book. I basically disagree with everything she wrote. According to Jennie, “cynicism is ALwAYS due to future fears or past anger”. Disagree. Cynicism is often built from observation of the world around us. My cynicism of the church today has nothing to do with future fear or past hurt. It has to do with seeing the lack of living out Jesus’ core teachings. It has to do with the self-serving attitude of much of the church. The self righteousness that is evident but the refusal to open the doors to all...
she goes on to say that cynicism “destroys our ability to delight in the world around us.” No. It doesn’t. I see beauty in the brokenness... in those that the church is too “clean” to help. Where you see my cynicism as a weakness; I see it as a driving force behind my desire to help the least of these...
Later on in the book she has a chapter in humility. She shares a story about her son walking down in air Jordan’s and asking for a leather jacket because he cares so much about what others think of him. Ok. Sounds like a typical kid.
Four pages later she talks about taking the same son to buy new shoes that he saved up money to buy and how he chooses less expensive ones because “jesus wouldn’t want him to have shoes that say look at me”. Umm... you already own them and wanted a leather jacket to match?!?
Something doesn’t line up here... and if my kid saved money to buy fancy shoes... I am letting him buy them if that is what his heart desires... he showed responsibility and planning to get those shoes. I don’t think Jesus would be upset with that.
Finally we near the end and she is sending her oldest off to college. She tells him how he is the light and so on... and is sending him to the darkness out there. Really?!? The world is not the “darkness out there”.
I thought we talked about cynicism earlier?! Is there darkness? Yes. Can he “be a light?” Yes. Is he now in a pack of wolves? Only if you believe your home is the only sanctuary.
I pray my children are never so sheltered that I need to tell them that the world outside our door is dark and they are the only light to everything/ everyone. Rather than having them believe everything outside of their safe zone is dark, I hope they have been taught to see the beauty in the brokenness an have compassion and empathy for them.
Upon completion:
Overall it isn’t a bad book. Many people will love it. I am related to many that will love it and gobble it up. I am friends with many that will try to live by the words inside... and ultimately fail and this feel as though they are a failure.
This book is a little too “here is how to make life shiney” for my taste and I probably won’t choose to read her books in the future... but that is because of where I am at in my faith and belief system. It is a lot of fluff with repetitive “answers” that do little to solve the deeper issues at hand.
I have enjoyed hearing Jennie talk at past conferences and the idea of negative thoughts diminishing my joy struck a chord. Unfortunately, Jennie it a little too bouncy, happy Christian for me to ever really connect.
Have there been good points? Yes.
Does it seem to be “one size fits all?” Yes.
Does the author use an 18 month bout with doubt to back her insights? Yes
Will people love this book? Yes. It is a pretty tidy little book filled with what to do, say and think to reclaim your mind from the devil (because he wants us to fail...) so you can live free.
I will finish this book and come back to share my final thoughts and maybe change my initial star review (2) but I will stick with the Rachel Held Evans, Jen Hatmakers and Sarah Besseys of the faith when I am looking for someone to share the thought battles that run through my head. I appreciate what Jennie has to say, but I do not connect with her material.
Back again. I was ready to update my review and maybe move to a 3 (since I can’t give 2.5) after reading the chapter on community and friendships. Then I read the chapter on fear... it was ok.
Next came the chapter on cynicism. It will take a lot for me to finish this book. I basically disagree with everything she wrote. According to Jennie, “cynicism is ALwAYS due to future fears or past anger”. Disagree. Cynicism is often built from observation of the world around us. My cynicism of the church today has nothing to do with future fear or past hurt. It has to do with seeing the lack of living out Jesus’ core teachings. It has to do with the self-serving attitude of much of the church. The self righteousness that is evident but the refusal to open the doors to all...
she goes on to say that cynicism “destroys our ability to delight in the world around us.” No. It doesn’t. I see beauty in the brokenness... in those that the church is too “clean” to help. Where you see my cynicism as a weakness; I see it as a driving force behind my desire to help the least of these...
Later on in the book she has a chapter in humility. She shares a story about her son walking down in air Jordan’s and asking for a leather jacket because he cares so much about what others think of him. Ok. Sounds like a typical kid.
Four pages later she talks about taking the same son to buy new shoes that he saved up money to buy and how he chooses less expensive ones because “jesus wouldn’t want him to have shoes that say look at me”. Umm... you already own them and wanted a leather jacket to match?!?
Something doesn’t line up here... and if my kid saved money to buy fancy shoes... I am letting him buy them if that is what his heart desires... he showed responsibility and planning to get those shoes. I don’t think Jesus would be upset with that.
Finally we near the end and she is sending her oldest off to college. She tells him how he is the light and so on... and is sending him to the darkness out there. Really?!? The world is not the “darkness out there”.
I thought we talked about cynicism earlier?! Is there darkness? Yes. Can he “be a light?” Yes. Is he now in a pack of wolves? Only if you believe your home is the only sanctuary.
I pray my children are never so sheltered that I need to tell them that the world outside our door is dark and they are the only light to everything/ everyone. Rather than having them believe everything outside of their safe zone is dark, I hope they have been taught to see the beauty in the brokenness an have compassion and empathy for them.
Upon completion:
Overall it isn’t a bad book. Many people will love it. I am related to many that will love it and gobble it up. I am friends with many that will try to live by the words inside... and ultimately fail and this feel as though they are a failure.
This book is a little too “here is how to make life shiney” for my taste and I probably won’t choose to read her books in the future... but that is because of where I am at in my faith and belief system. It is a lot of fluff with repetitive “answers” that do little to solve the deeper issues at hand.
April 13, 2021
3 stars
I loved what the author tried to do with this book, but for me, unfortunately, the execution fell flat. I feel that if you find the narrator/author relatable, you might enjoy this one. There were parts I really liked and found helpful, but a lot of it was her personality and examples from her real life that weren't relatable for me personally.
I loved what the author tried to do with this book, but for me, unfortunately, the execution fell flat. I feel that if you find the narrator/author relatable, you might enjoy this one. There were parts I really liked and found helpful, but a lot of it was her personality and examples from her real life that weren't relatable for me personally.
Audio book source: Libby (library borrow)
Story Rating: 3 stars
Narrators: Jennie Allen
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Non-fiction
Length: 5 hours and 29 minutes
May 19, 2020
This is a Christian bible scriptures based book. A non Christian will not benefit other than few general thoughts here and there. I was expecting more psychological aspects to train the mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2020
I really struggled to read this book, not because of the content matter but the informality of her voice. It felt haphazardly put together. It read like it was written by Dragon, the speech to text recognition software.
Furthermore, as someone who has wrestled with doubt, depression, and intellectual spirals, it was difficult to resonate with her energetic voice. I never really feel like the answer is “this is not who you are,” because it is who I am, I am growing and pressing on despite the doubts. I best connect with God with my rational mind, not my feelings or emotions.
It was recommended to me by a friend who really enjoys it, and I think Allen is ministering to her there. I think people who want something more substantive would be better off reading Peter Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Furthermore, as someone who has wrestled with doubt, depression, and intellectual spirals, it was difficult to resonate with her energetic voice. I never really feel like the answer is “this is not who you are,” because it is who I am, I am growing and pressing on despite the doubts. I best connect with God with my rational mind, not my feelings or emotions.
It was recommended to me by a friend who really enjoys it, and I think Allen is ministering to her there. I think people who want something more substantive would be better off reading Peter Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
August 12, 2020
An important book. Jennie Allen is vulnerable in her pursuit of showing us a path away from spiraling thoughts. We have a choice. I have a choice. Such a simple, yet powerful, concept. Then she provides roadmaps for eight sets of thoughts- how to transfer them to choices and regain control of our thoughts.
August 24, 2020
SO GOOD. Probably will be the best book I read all year. It was exactly what I needed to hear, so practical and real and Scripture-centric. Would recommend to everyone, and will definitely be rereading it myself.
June 26, 2021
Long review: PLEASE ASK ME ABOUT THIS BOOK/WHAT IT MEANS TO ME!!
I think maybe my favorite book ever - shows how meditating on scripture biologically changes your brain!!!! What!!
Throughout my life, it has been easy for me to see that the world is a spiritual battlefield. However, somewhere along the way, I lost sight of the fact that my mind is a spiritual battlefield as well. In different subtle ways, Satan has been successful at gaining footholds in my mind, especially over the past few years. This has led to feelings of worthlessness, cynicism, and shame during this period of time.
As so many of us do, I fell into the trap of believing that I do not have the ability to change. That I am powerless over my own mind. That the gospel has the power to change everyone but me.
Friends, I am here to say that these are lies from Satan. By believing these lies, it denies the power of God to change hearts and MINDS (Romans 12:2). It leads us to believe that we are worthless, unlovable, and helpless. It separates us from the Lord in the same way it separated Adam and Eve from him: by believing lies about the character of the Lord and his love towards us.
Four main takeaways for myself:
1. The enemy of shame is community. Shame cannot exist in a space where vulnerability and grace inhabit. 1 John 1:7 says “If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”
2. Fear is vanquished when we believe that God is in control and we meditate on His truth. Make the choice to surrender your fears to the Lord. Luke 12:7 says “The very hairs on your head are numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” Our thoughts make who we are. If our thoughts are on “whatever is true”, the enemy cannot bring his most powerful weapon - lies - against us (Philippians 4:8).
3. Cynicism is overcome by the wonder of His goodness. Romans 8:28 says “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Look at the mountains and the beaches, watch Olympic athletes, admire the community of your friends, and take in the goodness and majesty of God. If you are struggling to see the goodness of God within your personal life, look outside yourself to get started.
4. Scientifically, it is proven that meditating on something for 10 minutes changes the pathways of your brain. That means that meditating on scripture for ten minutes a day CHANGES YOUR BRAIN!! Ten minutes is half of an episode of the office. Ten minutes is getting ready in the morning on a busy day. Ten minutes is transition time between classes. LfreakinG
Guys, there is so much freedom in these truths. And the best part is, they are truth. They aren’t my opinions, they aren’t Jennie Allen’s opinions, they are true because “all scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). Like I said at the top, if you want to talk about this truth, if you identify with my struggles, please reach out to me.
I think maybe my favorite book ever - shows how meditating on scripture biologically changes your brain!!!! What!!
Throughout my life, it has been easy for me to see that the world is a spiritual battlefield. However, somewhere along the way, I lost sight of the fact that my mind is a spiritual battlefield as well. In different subtle ways, Satan has been successful at gaining footholds in my mind, especially over the past few years. This has led to feelings of worthlessness, cynicism, and shame during this period of time.
As so many of us do, I fell into the trap of believing that I do not have the ability to change. That I am powerless over my own mind. That the gospel has the power to change everyone but me.
Friends, I am here to say that these are lies from Satan. By believing these lies, it denies the power of God to change hearts and MINDS (Romans 12:2). It leads us to believe that we are worthless, unlovable, and helpless. It separates us from the Lord in the same way it separated Adam and Eve from him: by believing lies about the character of the Lord and his love towards us.
Four main takeaways for myself:
1. The enemy of shame is community. Shame cannot exist in a space where vulnerability and grace inhabit. 1 John 1:7 says “If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”
2. Fear is vanquished when we believe that God is in control and we meditate on His truth. Make the choice to surrender your fears to the Lord. Luke 12:7 says “The very hairs on your head are numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” Our thoughts make who we are. If our thoughts are on “whatever is true”, the enemy cannot bring his most powerful weapon - lies - against us (Philippians 4:8).
3. Cynicism is overcome by the wonder of His goodness. Romans 8:28 says “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Look at the mountains and the beaches, watch Olympic athletes, admire the community of your friends, and take in the goodness and majesty of God. If you are struggling to see the goodness of God within your personal life, look outside yourself to get started.
4. Scientifically, it is proven that meditating on something for 10 minutes changes the pathways of your brain. That means that meditating on scripture for ten minutes a day CHANGES YOUR BRAIN!! Ten minutes is half of an episode of the office. Ten minutes is getting ready in the morning on a busy day. Ten minutes is transition time between classes. LfreakinG
Guys, there is so much freedom in these truths. And the best part is, they are truth. They aren’t my opinions, they aren’t Jennie Allen’s opinions, they are true because “all scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). Like I said at the top, if you want to talk about this truth, if you identify with my struggles, please reach out to me.
March 23, 2022
When I read this book, it profoundly changed my outlook. I appreciated Jennie’s notes to make sure everyone knew she was all for medicine, but her ideas are simply how she has seen her and her friends and relatives evolve.
I thought when reading: “Sure. Easier said then done.”
When I heard Jennie Allen speak at Passion 2022, I really and truly was profoundly changed. Her ideas and her forthrightness of our “2 percent”, is something truly incredible. I never wanted to participate. And yet her speaking inspired it all. My life is now changed in so many ways. I am eternally grateful for her guidance. She has shown me how to open up my relationship with God.
So, the book is incredible. Hearing her speak: the most impeccable minutes of your life.
I thought when reading: “Sure. Easier said then done.”
When I heard Jennie Allen speak at Passion 2022, I really and truly was profoundly changed. Her ideas and her forthrightness of our “2 percent”, is something truly incredible. I never wanted to participate. And yet her speaking inspired it all. My life is now changed in so many ways. I am eternally grateful for her guidance. She has shown me how to open up my relationship with God.
So, the book is incredible. Hearing her speak: the most impeccable minutes of your life.
January 14, 2020
This is a book that needed to be written! I'm thrilled that Jennie took up this mantel for the Kingdom. In the past I've felt chastised by Christian books that address negative thought-life, anxiety or depression. It's obvious that neither the author or anyone they love has ever come close to being touched by mental illness or the toxic thought spiral that consumes so many. In this book Jennie is vulnerable with her own personal experience and comes across warm and empathetic. You can tell she's been through and seen some thangs. Yes, thangs!
It's a perfect narrative of while yes, we've been given the power through Holy Spirit to win the battle for our minds because it's already been won for us by Christ...
1. We're Kingdom kids in a fallen world and therefore we may struggle for all sorts of reasons (of our own doing, someone else, or reasons that we won't ever know on this side).
2. There is an enemy out there that wants to take us out and he'll use our thought-life to do it if we let him.
3 She lets us know that it's okay, to not be okay (and no pretending). While at the same time helping us understand how detrimental it would be if we were to remain stuck in our heads at the mercy of our stinking thinking and the enemy.
4. There's no shame in needing meds or therapy.
5. Get you a prayer-waring girl (or boy) gang.
I especially love that she doesn't simply throw a bunch of scripture at us and tell us to go get our minds right. She genius-ly and lovingly weaves scripture and science to explain how flawed thinking gets us caught up in our heads (and literally changes our brains), how to get out of our heads (and fix our brains) and how to stay out of it.
Finally a book that doesn't shame the reader for needing medication or therapy. This is a book that I'll feel happy passing along to everyone in my community, no caveats required.
It's a perfect narrative of while yes, we've been given the power through Holy Spirit to win the battle for our minds because it's already been won for us by Christ...
1. We're Kingdom kids in a fallen world and therefore we may struggle for all sorts of reasons (of our own doing, someone else, or reasons that we won't ever know on this side).
2. There is an enemy out there that wants to take us out and he'll use our thought-life to do it if we let him.
3 She lets us know that it's okay, to not be okay (and no pretending). While at the same time helping us understand how detrimental it would be if we were to remain stuck in our heads at the mercy of our stinking thinking and the enemy.
4. There's no shame in needing meds or therapy.
5. Get you a prayer-waring girl (or boy) gang.
I especially love that she doesn't simply throw a bunch of scripture at us and tell us to go get our minds right. She genius-ly and lovingly weaves scripture and science to explain how flawed thinking gets us caught up in our heads (and literally changes our brains), how to get out of our heads (and fix our brains) and how to stay out of it.
Finally a book that doesn't shame the reader for needing medication or therapy. This is a book that I'll feel happy passing along to everyone in my community, no caveats required.
March 17, 2020
I found this book to be pretty ableist. The whole premise of it is that negative thoughts derail your life, and you have to choose to have positive thoughts. There's a very small disclaimer for those who suffer with mental illness. In my opinion, the basic of this book is, "trust Jesus and it'll all be better". In my reality, I've never known anyone for whom this worked long-term. It's a lot of fluff for dealing with mental issues, from someone who doesn't have any mental health training.
May 11, 2020
I disliked this book. Spiritual change doesn’t all change in the head. You don’t think your way through it. She’s misguided and I’d never let her near any of our kids at church.
August 11, 2020
Please read this book.
May 12, 2022
This is cringe wish.com Brene Brown for Christians who should be in therapy
August 18, 2022
She lost me at the enneagram nonsense.
August 29, 2022
This is a solid book about changing your thought life. Personally, I got more practical help from Loving God with All Your Mind, but I still think this is a solid book on the subject. I really love the author's passion, honesty, and love for Jesus.
December 24, 2022
Attractive title, shitty content.
Read 79 pages. No need to continue.
Read 79 pages. No need to continue.
December 12, 2023
This is the most influential book I have ever read. I have completely changed the way I think and act because of this book. I have already experienced a positive difference in my life (mentally, physically, and spiritually)
November 19, 2022
I found this book mostly encouraging. As someone who often experiences the “spiraling” of fear or anxiety or doubt in my mind, this book offered a solid biblical aid to that struggle— taking thoughts captive and showing what that looks like. For this, I’m grateful.
I came away with one major gripe, however—the voice the book was written in. Mildly distracting at some points, offensive and painful at others… and the main reason it took me so long to get through it.
I continue to wonder why women Christian authors cannot stop trying to “meet their audience where they are,” and instead have greater faith in women’s ability to read and grasp thoughtfully written content. It doesn’t have to be the voice of a theology textbook, but assuming a book written for women needs to sound like you’re having a conversation over coffee in order to be understood feels insulting.
I’m thankful for the ministry of Jennie Allen, but generally desire for women in the church to be seen and believed in as capable of more than the stereotype put upon us.
I came away with one major gripe, however—the voice the book was written in. Mildly distracting at some points, offensive and painful at others… and the main reason it took me so long to get through it.
I continue to wonder why women Christian authors cannot stop trying to “meet their audience where they are,” and instead have greater faith in women’s ability to read and grasp thoughtfully written content. It doesn’t have to be the voice of a theology textbook, but assuming a book written for women needs to sound like you’re having a conversation over coffee in order to be understood feels insulting.
I’m thankful for the ministry of Jennie Allen, but generally desire for women in the church to be seen and believed in as capable of more than the stereotype put upon us.
December 11, 2020
The spirit of the book was fine. However, I think the author was too much focused on contributing religeous matters to every aspects. I personaly prefer to learn about facts, priciples, and abstract levels rather than specific instances. In general, it was not the psychological neuroscientific book I expected it to be.
June 17, 2020
I really recommend this book for those of you who are like me and struggle with what it actually means to take every thought captive! It’s kind of a Christian froofroo girl book but has some incredible and practical information. I suggest reading and learn what it means to stop your toxic thoughts before they control your emotions and actions!
July 11, 2022
“There’s a greater plan for service in our lives, and this is it. We interrupt the spiral of self, fix our eyes on Jesus, and run the race set before us.”
I genuinely feel like my brain works differently, at the end of this book, than when I started. Thanks, Jennie Allen!!
I genuinely feel like my brain works differently, at the end of this book, than when I started. Thanks, Jennie Allen!!
August 15, 2021
I have seen this book around for the last year, but avoided it because of all the buzz and the title. I have become much more aware recently of an incredibly disturbing problem within Christian publishing. Books like "Girl, Wash Your Face" by Rachel Hollis and others that emphasize personal happiness over holiness. Just because a book is being published by a Christian company doesn't mean you can trust its content to be aligned with scripture. This title seemed to be just another one of those books. And I didn't want to devote any time to it. I didn't see it as a way to authentically grow me in my relationship with Christ. I certainly did not want to jump on a bandwagon that seemed similar to all the hype of "washing my face."
Then, I listened to author Jennie Allen on the Proverbs 31 Ministries podcast (a podcast that I trust and believe has my holiness at heart and not my happiness). As I multitasked, taking a morning walk and listening to the podcast, I could sense that this book was going to be a "game-changer" in our thought lives as Christian women...if only we would choose to live out the scripture that it so appropriately challenges the reader with. There is honestly so much to say about this book. The authenticity of Jennie Allen. The spiritual battles that she and God have fought to get her to this place. As with Lysa TerKeurst's two latest books, Jennie Allen's Get Out of Your Head is one to revisit again after finishing it. It is important for us to recognize the battles that we all face in our thought lives. I walked through this book with two other women and the conversations we had over it were equally as valuable. We read it in partnership with the Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study provided this summer. It is thorough, comprehensive, and just might need to be the next book on your to-read list.
Then, I listened to author Jennie Allen on the Proverbs 31 Ministries podcast (a podcast that I trust and believe has my holiness at heart and not my happiness). As I multitasked, taking a morning walk and listening to the podcast, I could sense that this book was going to be a "game-changer" in our thought lives as Christian women...if only we would choose to live out the scripture that it so appropriately challenges the reader with. There is honestly so much to say about this book. The authenticity of Jennie Allen. The spiritual battles that she and God have fought to get her to this place. As with Lysa TerKeurst's two latest books, Jennie Allen's Get Out of Your Head is one to revisit again after finishing it. It is important for us to recognize the battles that we all face in our thought lives. I walked through this book with two other women and the conversations we had over it were equally as valuable. We read it in partnership with the Proverbs 31 Online Bible Study provided this summer. It is thorough, comprehensive, and just might need to be the next book on your to-read list.
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