As I strive to continually improve as a writer, I often find myself grappling with the pressure to absorb knowledge quickly. But recently, Chuck Wendig’s ‘Gentle Writing Advice’ challenged my approach. Why must growth always be tied to self-improvement? Must we constantly berate ourselves for not meeting others’ standards of progress? The answer lies in self-respect and a genuine desire for personal betterment, rather than self-hatred.
This is the essence of gentle writing advice: taking ownership of our lives without sacrificing kindness and empathy towards ourselves when mistakes are made.
Gentle self-help books recognize that growth is not always linear, nor does it require ignoring our unique circumstances or beating ourselves up over setbacks. They acknowledge life’s complexities and offer suggestions for personal growth, treating readers with respect and compassion along the way.
These books don’t shy away from difficult topics; instead, they confront them head-on while fostering a supportive atmosphere.
To gain insight into this genre’s nuances, I recommend reading Jeffrey Davies’ essay ‘Healing My Relationship with Self-Help Books,’ which explores how his perception of self-help shifted from relying on it to solve all problems to using it as a tool for personal empowerment. Additionally, Yashvi Peeti’s research-oriented essay ‘Do Self Help Books Work?
Do They Actually Help?’ offers a thoughtful analysis of the genre’s effectiveness and whether its promises yield measurable outcomes.
There Is No Right Way to Meditate by Yumi Sakugawa
Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can be particularly beneficial when you’re prone to self-criticism. Yumi Sakugawa, an artist, offers a unique approach to cultivating everyday mindfulness through her calming illustrations and reassuring message that imperfection is okay. By embracing this mindset, you’ll learn to let go of the pressure to get everything right on your first attempt, allowing yourself to be more present in the moment.
Your Turn: How to Be an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims
With over a decade of experience mentoring young adults as the former Stanford dean of freshmen, Julie Lythcott-Haims has developed a unique understanding of what it takes to build the confidence and resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges. In her advice, she emphasizes the importance of cultivating a growth mindset that allows individuals to adapt and learn from setbacks, ultimately finding a path in life that brings them joy and fulfillment.
I Am More Than My Body: The Body Neutral Journey by Bethany C. Meyers
While the body positivity movement encourages acceptance, many individuals struggle with complex emotions about their physical forms. Rather than dismissing these feelings, Bethany C. Meyers, a proponent of body neutrality, offers a more nuanced approach by teaching people to develop a respectful and compassionate relationship with their bodies, one that rejects shame and self-worth judgments.
Grand: A Grandparent’s Wisdom for a Happy Life by Charles Johnson
What’s remarkable is that the value grandparents bring isn’t limited by age. The wisdom, kindness, and unique perspective they share can enrich anyone’s life, regardless of their stage in life. This memoir, penned by National Book Award winner Charles Johnson, distills the lessons he’s learned from his own experiences and those gained while mentoring his grandson Emery. Through this narrative, Johnson offers valuable insights on cultivating a fulfilling life.
Goblin Mode: How to Get Cozy, Embrace Imperfection, and Thrive in the Muck by McKayla Coyle
While some may liken Goblincore to Cottagecore’s affection for simplicity and nature, it’s the nuances that set them apart. Where Cottagecore celebrates the serene and unblemished, Goblincore finds solace in embracing the imperfect, the quirky, and the beautifully rough-around-the-edges aspects of life. It’s about discovering joy and beauty in the everyday moments, even when they’re messy or unconventional.
Soul Archaeology: A (Totally Doable) Approach to Creating a Self-Loving and Liberated Life by Sarah Sapora (August 8)
As individuals navigate the turbulent waters of life, it’s natural for their true selves to become overshadowed by traumatic events or external pressures. In her inspiring work, public speaker Sarah Sapora encourages readers to establish a strong foundation rooted in self-accountability, authenticity, and kindness. By doing so, they can discover a sense of lasting fulfillment that is uniquely theirs, untethered from the expectations of others.
The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World by Jamil Zaki
Contrary to popular belief, empathy isn’t an innate quality that you either possess or lack. According to Jamil Zaki, director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab, it’s a skill that can be developed and refined through practice. In fact, cultivating empathy is crucial for building stronger relationships and fostering a more compassionate society. Zaki’s research-backed approach provides actionable tips for incorporating kindness into our daily interactions with others.
Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman
As social isolation becomes an increasingly pervasive issue, many individuals are seeking to cultivate meaningful connections with others. To facilitate this process, podcast co-hosts Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, who also happen to be best friends, offer a wealth of knowledge, personal experiences, and expert insights for building lasting friendships.
Their advice not only provides a roadmap for those looking to form new relationships but also offers valuable guidance for existing friends navigating the inevitable ups and downs that come with any close-knit bond.
Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
In the aftermath of traumatic events, our instinct is often to suppress emotions and move on as quickly as possible. This approach can be seen as a sign of weakness or laziness. However, author Katherine May presents an alternative perspective – one that highlights the importance of embracing painful emotions rather than repressing them. By doing so, we may find that rest and acceptance are key components in the healing process.
For those seeking more practical guidance beyond clichés, consider exploring books like Luvvie Ajayi Jones’ ‘Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual’, which offers a refreshing approach to overcoming adversity.