Playing Big by Tara Mohr

Last updated: Jul 31, 2023

Summary of Playing Big by Tara Mohr

Playing Big by Tara Mohr is a self-help book that aims to empower women to overcome their fears and self-doubt in order to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. Mohr argues that many women hold themselves back from playing big in their lives due to societal expectations, internalized self-criticism, and a lack of confidence.

The book is divided into two parts. In the first part, Mohr explores the internal barriers that prevent women from playing big. She discusses the concept of the "inner critic," which is the voice in our heads that tells us we are not good enough or capable enough. Mohr provides strategies for identifying and quieting the inner critic, such as reframing negative thoughts and practicing self-compassion.

Mohr also addresses the fear of failure and the fear of being judged by others. She encourages women to embrace failure as a learning opportunity and to let go of the need for external validation. Mohr emphasizes the importance of taking risks and stepping outside of one's comfort zone in order to grow and achieve success.

In the second part of the book, Mohr focuses on external barriers that women face in playing big. She discusses the concept of the "good girl" persona, which is the tendency for women to prioritize others' needs and opinions over their own. Mohr encourages women to assert themselves, set boundaries, and prioritize their own desires and goals.

Mohr also addresses the issue of imposter syndrome, which is the feeling of being a fraud despite evidence of one's competence. She provides strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, such as reframing self-doubt as a sign of growth and focusing on one's strengths and accomplishments.

Throughout the book, Mohr provides practical exercises and tools for women to apply the concepts discussed. She includes real-life examples and stories from women who have successfully played big in their lives, which serve as inspiration and motivation.

In conclusion, Playing Big by Tara Mohr is a comprehensive guide for women who want to overcome their fears and self-doubt in order to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. Mohr provides valuable insights, strategies, and exercises to help women play big and live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

1. The Inner Critic

One of the key takeaways from "Playing Big" is the concept of the inner critic. Tara Mohr explains that the inner critic is the voice inside our heads that constantly judges and criticizes us. It is the voice that tells us we are not good enough, smart enough, or capable enough to pursue our dreams and goals. Mohr emphasizes that recognizing and understanding our inner critic is crucial in order to overcome its influence and start playing big in our lives.

Mohr provides practical strategies for dealing with the inner critic, such as identifying its specific messages and questioning their validity. She encourages readers to challenge the inner critic's negative beliefs and replace them with more empowering thoughts. By learning to quiet the inner critic and cultivate self-compassion, individuals can gain the confidence and courage to pursue their passions and take risks.

2. The Importance of Unhooking from Praise and Criticism

In "Playing Big," Mohr highlights the significance of unhooking from both praise and criticism. She explains that relying too heavily on external validation can hinder personal growth and limit our potential. Mohr encourages readers to detach their self-worth from the opinions and judgments of others, as this allows for greater authenticity and freedom in pursuing our passions.

Mohr suggests focusing on our own internal compass and values rather than seeking approval from others. By unhooking from praise and criticism, individuals can develop a stronger sense of self and make decisions based on their own intuition and desires. This shift in mindset empowers individuals to take risks, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and ultimately play big in their lives.

3. The Power of Owning Our Brilliance

Tara Mohr emphasizes the importance of owning our brilliance as a key factor in playing big. She explains that many women tend to downplay their achievements and talents, often attributing their success to luck or external factors. Mohr encourages readers to acknowledge and embrace their unique strengths and accomplishments, recognizing that they are deserving of their achievements.

Mohr provides practical exercises and strategies for owning our brilliance, such as creating a "brilliance resume" to document our accomplishments and strengths. By recognizing and celebrating our brilliance, we can build confidence and overcome self-doubt, allowing us to step into our full potential and play big in our personal and professional lives.

4. The Importance of Taking Action

In "Playing Big," Mohr emphasizes the significance of taking action as a crucial step towards playing big. She explains that many individuals, particularly women, often hold back from pursuing their dreams due to fear, self-doubt, or the desire for perfection. Mohr encourages readers to take imperfect action, emphasizing that progress and growth come from taking small steps forward.

Mohr provides practical strategies for overcoming the fear of taking action, such as reframing failure as a learning opportunity and setting realistic goals. She emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort and uncertainty, as these are often signs of growth and progress. By taking action and stepping outside of our comfort zones, we can overcome self-imposed limitations and play big in our lives.

5. The Power of Speaking Up

Tara Mohr highlights the power of speaking up as a key aspect of playing big. She explains that many individuals, particularly women, often hesitate to share their ideas, opinions, and perspectives due to fear of judgment or rejection. Mohr encourages readers to find their voices and speak up, recognizing that their unique perspectives and contributions are valuable.

Mohr provides practical strategies for overcoming the fear of speaking up, such as practicing assertiveness and developing effective communication skills. She emphasizes the importance of sharing our ideas and perspectives, as this not only benefits ourselves but also contributes to the collective wisdom and progress of society. By speaking up and sharing our voices, we can make a meaningful impact and play big in our personal and professional lives.

6. The Role of Intuition in Decision-Making

In "Playing Big," Mohr emphasizes the role of intuition in decision-making. She explains that many individuals, particularly women, often rely solely on logic and external advice when making decisions, disregarding their own inner wisdom. Mohr encourages readers to tap into their intuition and trust their gut instincts, recognizing that they possess valuable insights and guidance.

Mohr provides practical exercises and strategies for developing intuition, such as mindfulness practices and journaling. She emphasizes the importance of quieting external noise and listening to our inner voice. By honoring our intuition and incorporating it into our decision-making process, we can make choices that align with our authentic selves and play big in our lives.

7. The Power of Mentorship and Support

Tara Mohr highlights the power of mentorship and support as crucial elements in playing big. She explains that seeking guidance and support from mentors and peers can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and accountability. Mohr encourages readers to actively seek out mentors and build a supportive network of individuals who believe in their potential.

Mohr provides practical strategies for finding mentors and building supportive relationships, such as reaching out to individuals who inspire us and joining communities or organizations aligned with our goals. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who uplift and challenge us, as this can significantly impact our personal and professional growth. By seeking mentorship and support, we can gain valuable guidance and encouragement to play big in our lives.

8. Embracing Imperfection and Failure

In "Playing Big," Mohr emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection and failure as essential components of growth and playing big. She explains that many individuals, particularly women, often strive for perfection and fear failure, which can hold them back from taking risks and pursuing their dreams. Mohr encourages readers to reframe failure as a learning opportunity and embrace imperfection as a natural part of the journey.

Mohr provides practical strategies for overcoming the fear of failure and embracing imperfection, such as reframing mistakes as opportunities for growth and practicing self-compassion. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating progress and resilience rather than solely focusing on outcomes. By embracing imperfection and failure, individuals can cultivate resilience, learn from setbacks, and ultimately play big in their lives.