

Glennon Doyle on How to Be Broken
May 12, 2025
Glennon Doyle, bestselling author and host of We Can Do Hard Things, shares her deeply personal journey of feeling broken and searching for belonging. She discusses the importance of self-discovery, the struggles of addiction, and the significance of authenticity in her life. Glennon reveals how societal pressures can amplify feelings of chaos and emphasizes finding clarity through writing. Her transformative experiences highlight the power of community support and the ongoing quest for inner peace amidst life’s challenges.
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Early Bulimia as Relief
- Glennon Doyle developed severe bulimia by age 10 as a private coping mechanism for life stress.
- Bingeing and purging gave her a sense of relief in moments of intense vulnerability and loneliness.
Rigid Childhood Breeds Brokenness
- Glennon grew up in a loving but rigid household with no room for being human.
- She controlled her facial expressions to avoid upsetting her parents, fuelling feelings of brokenness.
Mental Hospital Brought Safety
- In high school, Glennon went to a guidance counselor pleading to be taken away, overwhelmed by social despair.
- She was hospitalized and felt relief when authorities took control from her, craving safety and care.