The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman Summary

The Next Right Thing offers a soulful framework for decision-making by focusing on present-moment clarity rather than long-term outcomes. Emily P. Freeman combines spiritual wisdom (drawing on biblical stories like Jesus’ instruction to Jairus) with practical steps to reduce decision fatigue, encouraging readers to take small, intentional actions aligned with their values.

This book is ideal for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s decisions, particularly those seeking a faith-based approach. It resonates with Christians, overthinkers, and individuals navigating transitions (career, relationships, or personal growth) who want to replace anxiety with purposeful action.

Yes—readers praise its actionable practices, relatable stories, and devotional structure (24 short chapters with prayers). It’s especially valuable for those tired of self-help formulas and seeking a grace-centered, present-focused method to make decisions.

Freeman’s framework prioritizes incremental steps over grand plans:

1. Simplify: Focus on the immediate next step, not distant outcomes.
2. Create space: Avoid clutter (physical or mental) to hear your inner voice.
3. Act in love: Let decisions flow from compassion, not fear.

The book counters overwhelm by reframing decisions as small, manageable actions. Freeman advises readers to “release the critic’s voice” and avoid overcommitment, emphasizing that even imperfect steps lead to progress.

Freeman uses stories like Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:41–43) to illustrate present-moment focus. She also cites principles from Martin Luther King Jr. and Alcoholics Anonymous, blending spiritual and practical wisdom.

• “Do the next right thing in love.”
• “The decision is rarely the point—it’s who you become while deciding.”
• “Unmade decisions hold power; done is better than perfect.”

Unlike Grace for the Good Girl (perfectionism) or Simply Tuesday (embracing smallness), this book specifically tackles decision-making through a spiritual lens. It retains Freeman’s reflective tone but adds structured practices.

Yes. Freeman’s approach helps break career choices into smaller steps, like networking or skill-building, while aligning actions with core values. She warns against letting fear or external critics dictate paths.

Some may find its faith-centric perspective limiting for secular audiences. Others note its repetitive structure, though fans argue the pacing mirrors the intentionality it teaches.

1. Morning reflection: Ask, “What’s one small decision I can make today?”
2. Evening review: Note where you acted (or didn’t) from love vs. fear.
3. Weekly pauses: Create space to avoid reactive choices.

In an era of constant distraction, Freeman’s call to “create space” resonates deeply. Its anti-hustle message offers a counterbalance to AI-driven productivity culture, making it a timely read for overwhelmed professionals and parents.