Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist

Week 1: Introduction — "An Invitation to the Table"

Read the Introduction of Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist.

Before diving into the chapters, Niequist sets the table by telling us what this book is and what it cost her to write it — take a moment to consider what drew you to this book and what you are hoping to find.

Discussion Questions

6 questions

1.Niequist describes writing this book as writing "from the middle" rather than from a place of having it all figured out. How does that posture affect the way you approach what she's going to say? Does it make you more or less inclined to trust her?

2.She frames the book as an invitation — specifically, an invitation away from striving and toward presence. What does the word "presence" mean to you right now, before you've read further? What does it look like in your daily life, or what does its absence feel like?

3.Niequist is honest that she is writing to people who, like her, have traded depth for speed and connection for productivity. Do you recognize yourself in that description? Where in your life do you feel most pulled toward busyness?

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Closing Prayer

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