Redefining self-help: moving beyond stereotypes

-Vementhaanee S A

It's so common to see young people read romance and fantasy. These genres serve the purpose of entertaining and offering an escape for their readers from the real world. However, there is another genre that is completely misunderstood and stereotyped as it deals with self-help. This genre of self-help books is regarded as preachy and rather boring and is said to be for those who are struggling with mental health disorders or personal crises.

This is so wrong. Self-help books offer great insights, advice, and motivational perspectives that any one of us will find worthy to use regardless of who we are. However, I encountered self-help books when I needed help traversing through life. I read Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" and was hooked. I then explored the works of Robin Sharma, James Clear, and Stephen Covey, which somehow comforted and guided me.

I had many books, but one of my all-time favourites would be Robin Sharma's "The 5 AM Club." The concept of waking up early and creating a morning routine transformed my entire approach to productivity and having a clear mindset. These authors changed my outlook on life by giving me strength and a healthy habit pattern every time I re-read their books, making me a better individual with resilience to face challenges.

Self-help books aren't magic potions and have no overnight solutions. Instead, they require commitment and consistent effort. They are like guidebooks for a garden—if you consistently cultivate it, growth will follow. Seeds take time to sprout, and insights usually take time to sink in. Old habits that have taken deep roots need constant weeding. Further transformations require patience with commitment and repeated cultivation.

Unfortunately, young readers of self-help books are often mocked or stereotyped as "sick" or "mentally unwell." Self-help books help you understand life's intricacies better and navigate through the challenges we face. They encourage one's awareness about personal growth and intentional living. By embracing this genre, one can develop emotional intelligence, improve relationships, cultivate mindfulness, and overcome the barriers that lie within.

The stigma tied to self-help books must be overcome. For herein is practical wisdom, empowering insights, and long-lasting change. Don't be afraid to explore this genre and choose a book to discover your transformative capabilities. Your life will thank you.

*Picture in Header : Winding down a long day with the cozy company of a book (Picture credit: iStock)