Hey friends,
I recently finished an incredible book that I couldn’t wait to share with you: Power Moves by Sarah Jakes Roberts. And honestly, the timing of this couldn’t have been more perfect, especially after the election and the wave of mixed emotions that followed. For some, there’s celebration, while for others (myself included), there’s a feeling of discouragement and hopelessness. In moments like these, it’s easy to feel disempowered. That’s why Power Moves felt like a breath of fresh air, a reminder that real power starts from within.
This isn’t the kind of book you speed through—it’s one you digest slowly, savoring each page. I started it a while back and treated it more like a daily reader, picking it up when I felt I needed that extra dose of wisdom. There were mornings where I’d read a few chapters and let the words settle, then come back to it days or even weeks later. But every time I picked it up, I found something new that spoke right to my heart.
Key Takeaways and Highlights
The book opens with one of my all-time favorite quotes from Marianne Williamson: “As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” That quote alone sets the stage for everything that follows. One powerful theme in Power Moves is the idea that power isn’t about what we possess but who we are willing to become. Power, Sarah reminds us, is an inside job. So many of us look outward—toward opportunities, positions, people—but real power starts within and builds up until it naturally overflows.
Here are a few highlights that really stood out to me:
“The only thing worse than being powerless is falling for the illusion that power can be amassed by what you have instead of who you are willing to become.”
“If you’ve ever found yourself withdrawing because you’re confused or nervous, it’s not because you’re weak. It’s evidence that your power is under attack. Reclaiming your power is an act of defiance.”
One concept that Sarah breaks down beautifully is what she calls “staying power.” Staying power, according to her, is the strength and determination to keep moving forward without weakening, regardless of the obstacles. She merges this definition with faith, saying that true staying power is having the capacity to trust God’s plan without losing heart. Isn’t that something we all need, especially during times of uncertainty?
As I reflected on this, I realized how much I can apply this idea to my own life. Staying power isn’t about pretending or performing for others. It’s about living authentically, aligning our actions with our values, and keeping our eyes fixed on what truly matters.
Living Authentically and Reclaiming Your Power
One of my biggest takeaways from Power Moves is that authenticity matters. Sarah describes how, when we drift into “relentless productivity” without grounding ourselves in who we are, we lose that authentic spark. For me, that hit home. I often get caught up in the “doing” rather than simply being. It’s easy to slip into that mode where we feel we have to prove ourselves through our actions rather than just trusting who we are.
Sarah reminds us that our anxiety can sometimes serve as a clue, showing us when we’re out of alignment with our true selves. And the remedy? Authenticity. Operating from a place of authenticity not only brings a sense of ease but also allows us to make a meaningful impact without the stress and burnout that comes from endless striving.
In the final chapters, Sarah encourages us to embrace our unique journeys and trust that we have the endurance to face whatever fears come our way. I summarized one of her closing thoughts with a powerful affirmation for myself: I have the endurance to withstand the inevitable fears that come when I move the way Power Moves.
Get Your Copy of Power Moves
I’ve only scratched the surface of all the incredible wisdom packed into this book. If this resonates with you or if you’re seeking inspiration to reclaim your power, I can’t recommend Power Moves enough. Click here to grab your copy, or pick it up at your local bookstore. Trust me, this is one you’ll want to keep by your side.
If you’re interested in hearing more about the book, I also posted a video review on my YouTube page where I share my personal takeaways and reflections. You can check it out here.
Whether you’re feeling disheartened or just need that extra push to reconnect with your inner strength, I hope Power Moves inspires you as much as it did for me. Let’s keep moving forward—authentically and powerfully.
Thanks for reading, and let me know in the comments if you’ve read this book or if you’re planning to pick it up. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Until next time,
Toya
Comments