Everyone has been wounded, at least once. And we are all in need of good self-care.
If you have ever felt hopeless; if you have ever believed that all the bad things in your life were beyond redemption; if you have ever felt unworthy of being loved or accepted; if you have ever feared what would happen if people found out whatever it is that haunts you - I get it. I have been there, too. Maybe you are recovering from abuse, addiction, or a suicide attempt like me. Maybe you are struggling with anxiety or depression or shame and don’t know why yet. No matter what your starting point is, the tools in this 21-day self-care journal will help you begin to answer the question, “Now what?”
You’re tired of living this way. You want to change your life, and you don’t know where to begin. I hope this journal will help you answer that question. It’s time to take ownership of your life, and that kind of recovery begins with good self-care. It’s hard work, but you can do it. No more running, no more hiding, no more masks. No matter what your journey has looked like so far, wholeness is possible. I am living proof.
Steve Austin was a pastor when he nearly died by suicide. Years of performance-based Christianity taught Austin to sweep the pain of childhood sexual abuse, plus the shame of PTSD, anxiety, and depression under the rug.
When it came to his suffering, Austin believed it was best not to let anyone know about his secrets - especially church folks. As a result, fear, shame, and guilt were Austin’s constant companions.
Thankfully, a suicide attempt was not the end of his story.
When Austin realized his life wasn’t over, he set about figuring out how to embrace vulnerability by asking for professional help and sharing the uncomfortable truth about his story.
In short: he gave himself permission to be human for the very first time.
Since going public, Austin has learned that countless others are desperate to live an authentic life, too. These days, he helps hurting people find an integrated approach to wholeness, including mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.
Since 2012, Austin has written several books, including: Catching Your Breath and Slow Miracles. His work has been featured in USA Today, Huffington Post, The Mighty, and other outlets. He has become a leading voice at the intersection of faith and mental health.
Today, Austin consults church leaders from around the U.S. on how to make their faith communities a safe place for those who are suffering. He also hosts the Catching Your Breath podcast, blogs regularly at catchingyourbreath.com, and is a sought-after speaker at international conferences.
If you feel "wounded" or hurt, anxious or depressed, over-busy or run-down, do something kind for yourself. Grab this book and dive into a 21 day journey of messy grace. Author Steve Austin is the "Grace Is Messy" guy, and he is authentically honest and brave with his story of abuse, addiction, and an attempted suicide. Kate Pieper LMFT is an amazing, down to earth, and compassionate therapist that has helped SO many people. Together, they teach you how to slow down, practice self-care, and give yourself grace, whatever that looks like for you (they help you figure that part out too!).
I was fortunate enough to participate in a group study of the Advanced Reader Copy, in exchange for an honest review. With a history of depression and anxiety, I knew I had to give this my all. Hands down, one of the best things that I have ever done for myself. Bless you Steve Austin and Kate Pieper for teaching people how to "self-care" and showing us that "messy grace" is perfectly ok.
Steve Austin has a gift for touching the wounds of the soul with his words and a whole lot of messy grace. I worked through this book for the month of October with a beta group, and I found what he presented to be challenging in such a loving and healing manner. I wish this came with videos, because if y'all heard the accent that comes with the words he writes, it would be so much more real. He makes me laugh so hard sometimes, and that's one of the best kinds of self-care. Love, peace, and chicken grease!