“Single, On Purpose” by John Kim
The author of I Used to Be a Miserable Fck* and The Angry Therapist, John Kim, now guides you on how to prioritize your relationship with yourself and lead a more meaningful life, whether you’re single, dating, or in a relationship.
No one eagerly anticipates the idea of “dating themselves.” However, there are times when we all need to embrace being single—intentionally. Following a string of unsuccessful relationships and a tough divorce, John Kim recognized that he had never genuinely experienced being alone. To progress, he realized he had to establish a relationship with himself and transition from feeling lonely to feeling fulfilled on his own.
For John, this journey involved donuts, barbells, and a motorcycle. For the thousands of clients he has supported as the Angry Therapist, it involved activities like yoga, salsa dancing, or finally speaking their truth. In Single. On Purpose., John utilizes his unique “self-help in a shot glass” methodology to teach readers how to take responsibility, break their habitual patterns, and develop a strong sense of self.
Single on Purpose is intended for individuals who have never been in a relationship, those who have continuously moved from one partner to another, and those who feel they have lost themselves in their current relationship—essentially anyone who needs to understand that life is about more than just who we choose to love.
Summary:
“Single, On Purpose: Redefine Everything. Find Yourself First.” by John Kim is a powerful exploration of self-discovery and personal growth. John Kim, known as “The Angry Therapist,” uses his unique blend of wit, wisdom, and real-life experiences to guide readers through the journey of being single with purpose and intention.
The book encourages readers to embrace their single status not as a period of waiting but as an opportunity for profound self-reflection and growth. Kim argues that being single should be seen as a valuable time to understand oneself better, heal from past relationships, and build a solid foundation for future connections.
Throughout the book, Kim shares personal anecdotes, practical advice, and thought-provoking exercises designed to help readers reconnect with themselves, rediscover their passions, and cultivate self-love. He emphasizes the importance of being whole on your own before seeking completeness in another person, advocating for a shift from dependency to interdependency in relationships.
genre: Self-help, non-fiction, psychology.
published on: January 12, 2021.
Review:
“Single, On Purpose” is a refreshing and insightful read that challenges societal norms and pressures about being single. John Kim’s candid and relatable writing style makes the book accessible and engaging, resonating with anyone who has ever felt lost or incomplete without a partner.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its practical approach. Kim offers actionable steps and exercises that encourage readers to actively engage in their journey of self-discovery. These exercises are thoughtfully designed to provoke introspection and promote self-awareness, making the book not just a passive read but a transformative experience.
Kim’s honesty about his own struggles and triumphs adds a personal touch that many readers will find comforting and inspiring. His stories serve as powerful reminders that self-love and self-understanding are ongoing processes, and that it’s okay to embrace imperfections and vulnerabilities.
The book’s focus on redefining singlehood as a period of empowerment rather than a state of lack is particularly empowering. Kim challenges the stigma around being single and offers a refreshing perspective that encourages readers to celebrate this phase of life.
However, some readers might find the informal, conversational tone a bit too casual for their taste, especially if they prefer a more structured or academic approach to self-help. Nonetheless, this style is what makes Kim’s message so relatable and digestible for a wide audience.
Overall, “Single, On Purpose” is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with themselves and transform their approach to being single. It’s a book that champions self-love, personal growth, and the belief that the most important relationship you will ever have is the one with yourself.
rating: 4/5