Book Review: Hands Free Life by Rachel Macy Stafford

Hands Free Life: Nine Habits for Overcoming distraction, living better, and loving more by Rachel Macy Stafford is one of the most heart-touching books I have read recently.

Hands Free Life follows Rachel Macy Stafford's first New York Times bestselling book, Hands Free Mama. I need to confess that I have not read that book. However, this book stands alone in its ability to touch the reader so the first book isn't necessary to understand this one. Although, since this one was so good, I did purchase the first book so I am ready and excited to read it too.

Hands Free Life offers up nine habits for readers to live a more fulfilled life. Stafford shares her personal journey on how these nine habits became a part of her life and how they could help yours as well. She shares personal stories from her life and the life of her daughters that just make me want to integrate these things in my life, knowing my life will be that much better. I also felt touched because I could relate well to many of the stories she shared. Her writing brings the stories to life and lays them out so you just want to grab them and make your walk through life a better one. She challenges the reader to evaluate the daily choices they make to create a life that truly matters.

One of my favorite quotes: "Having a parent who listens creates a child who believe he or she has a voice that matters in this world." I want to be the parent who listens to my child and nurtures his loving spirit. I want to be the friend who takes time to send loving notes. I want to notice the good things in my day and share the good things with others. I think I already have a heart to do many of those things. I have a heart like Natalie's in the book and many people told me to toughen up, but instead, I would rather see my tender heart as a gift and share parts of every day, lived mindfully, with those around me. This book had me tearing up in many places because I could feel a kindred spirit within me relating to all the author shared. I hope that it touches you in all the right places so you can make a difference in the lives of all you come in contact with and live your life well. I give the book 5 stars.

I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

About the Author
Rachel Macy Stafford is a New York Times bestselling author and a certified special education teacher with a Master’s Degree in education. A few years ago, this life-long writer felt compelled to share her journey to let go of distraction and grasp what really matters by creating what became the tremendously popular blog “Hands Free Mama.” Using her skills as a writer, teacher, and encourager, Rachel provides readers with simple, non-intimidating, and motivating methods to let go of distraction and connect with their loves ones. Rachel lives in Georgia with her husband and two children who inspire her daily. www.handsfreemama.com