How To Stop Trying By Kate Williams

 

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Kate Williams delivers a refreshingly honest and deeply insightful guide in *How to Stop Trying*. The book speaks directly to overachievers, perfectionists, and anyone who has ever felt the pressure of constantly striving to do more, be more, and achieve more. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and well-researched psychological insights, Williams invites readers to question the relentless pursuit of external validation and redefine their relationships with success, failure, and self-worth.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its relatability. Williams has a knack for capturing the inner monologue of an overachiever with raw authenticity. Her stories of burnout, imposter syndrome, and the never-ending “to-do list” resonate deeply. At the same time, she doesn’t dwell in negativity; her humor and humility make the journey toward self-acceptance feel both attainable and uplifting.  

The book is well-structured, with each chapter addressing a specific challenge—letting go of perfection, embracing vulnerability, and learning to set boundaries, among others. Williams pairs these topics with actionable exercises that encourage reflection and growth. While the advice isn’t groundbreaking for those already familiar with self-help literature, it’s presented in a way that feels fresh and deeply personal, making the concepts more impactful.  

What keeps this from being a 5-star read is its pacing. At times, the narrative lingers too long on personal stories, leaving less room for deeper exploration of certain strategies. Additionally, readers looking for a step-by-step “how-to” guide may find the approach more philosophical than prescriptive.  

Overall, *How to Stop Trying* is a compassionate and empowering read. Williams offers a much-needed reminder that self-worth isn’t measured by achievements and that the bravest thing we can do is learn to accept ourselves, flaws and all. This book is an excellent pick for anyone seeking balance and authenticity in a world that glorifies hustle culture. Highly recommended for overachievers in need of a reset.