List
Beginner's Guide to Self-Help: Staff Favorites
Library staff share some of their favorite self-help titles.
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Emotional Intelligence 2.0
2009 by Bradberry, TravisGet this itemTravis Bradberry and Jean Greaves provide practical strategies regarding self-awareness, relationships, and social situations (and more) in this highly readable book. Suggested by Ryan.
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Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle
2019 by Nagoski, EmilyGet this itemSisters Emily and Ameilia Nagoski offer loads of information, advice, and exercises to lead to positive change. This book paints a full picture of stress and what you can do about it. Suggested by Leah.
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Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness
2013 by Kabat-Zinn, JonGet this itemThis book is a wonderful introduction to mindfulness and a great choice for those who want more information before jumping in. Jon Zabat-Zinn does a great job of making mindfulness accessible to anyone. Suggested by Jeff.
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Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar
2012 by Strayed, CherylGet this itemThis collection is powerful. Cheryl Strayed doles out advice while connecting it to deeply personal moments from her life, often engaging with the ugliest, hardest moments of life and somehow making it not just survivable but sometimes beautiful. Suggested by Amanda.
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Big Feelings: How to Be Okay When Things Are Not Okay
2022 by Fosslien, LizGet this itemThis book presenting myths, practical steps, and takeaways in a well-organized manner. I found the illustrations especially helpful, as they capture concepts in a simple way. Suggested by Nancy.
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Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity
2022 by Price, DevonGet this itemThis book gave me words to describe things that I had struggled to articulate to others, and a more positive outlook on myself in context of relating to the world and those around me. Suggested by Wesley.
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How to Smile
2023 by Nĥát HạnhGet this itemI’ve appreciated self-help books that have reminded me of things that have helped me have a healthier perspective on a number of topics. The “How to” series by Thich Naht Hanh made an impact on me and this latest offering is a great choice for anyone. Suggested by Richard.
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The Power of Positive Thinking
2003 by Peale, Norman VincentGet this itemKeeping your thoughts healthy, positive, and smart takes effort but that effort is completely worth it. This book provides applicable and practical advice. Suggested by Alyson.
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Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed
2019 by Gottlieb, LoriGet this itemThis book is a fantastic peek into the world of therapy from the therapist's perspective. Lori Gottlieb's conversational writing style reads more like a memoir than self-help. Suggested by Brenna.
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Man's Search for Meaning
2006 by Frankl, Viktor E.Get this itemThis book has inspired countless people and provides helpful tools in navigating life. I have little doubt that I will still be thinking about this book for as long as I live. Suggested by Steven.
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Good Habits, Bad Habits: The Science of Making Positive Changes That Stick
2019 by Wood, WendyGet this itemThis comprehensive book about habits is based on three decades of research by psychologist Wendy Wood. This is a great choice if you are looking for ways to build good habits that are supported by science. Suggested by Van.
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The Beauty of What Remains: How Our Greatest Fear Becomes Our Greatest Gift
2021 by Leder, Steven Z.Get this itemThis powerful book about death and grief has affected me greatly. Steven Z. Leder has decades of grief counseling experience, yet was caught off guard when his own father died. Suggested by Mandy.
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What If This Were Enough? Essays
2018 by Havrilesky, HeatherGet this itemIn this collection of essays, Heather Havrilesky makes several excellent points about being satisfied and grateful for what you have. It seems gratitude and resilience are two strong pillars of well-being and happiness. Suggested by Bill.
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Stillness Is the Key
2019 by Holiday, RyanGet this itemInstead of telling one what to do, Ryan Holiday's approach is to present a vast array of information and then to point out the common thread. This book is practical, accessible, and a must for any self-help enthusiast. Suggested by Paul.
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