These Old Self-Help Books Will Change Your Life

You’d have to be living completely off the grid not to know how crazy things are right now. Civil rights rollbacks, a struggling economy and a democracy that could be teetering on the edge of collapse are just a few of the things that keep us up at night (and don’t even get us started on the environment!).

In times like these, books can help. And while they may not be able to tell you how to fix everything around you, they can offer great advice on how to cope. We dug in the crates and found some of our favorite self-help titles that have timeless lessons on life and love.

Check out some of our favorite oldies but goodies that just might help you see the glass as half-full.

“Yesterday, I Cried: Celebrating The Lessons Of Living And Loving” by Iyanla Vanzant

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 25 years since Iyanla Vanzant released “Yesterday, I Cried.” In the book, she shares her deeply personal stories of experience with abuse and loss, and how allowing herself to cry helped her find strength and healing.

“Live Your Dreams” by Les Brown

In “Live Your Dreams,” Les Brown tells readers that the power to be who and what they want to be is completely in your hands. The book includes a planner to help you outline your goals and keep track of the steps you are taking to reach them.

“Acts of Faith: Daily Meditations for People of Color” by Iyanla Vanzant

Surviving as a Black person comes with a unique set of challenges. Iyanla Vanzant’s “Acts of Faith” is an inspirational book written specifically for people of color, with daily motivational quotes and essays to encourage reflection and help the reader get through life’s challenges.

“Letters to a Young Brother: MANifest Your Destiny” by Hill Harper

Actor and activist Hill Harper has compiled a collection of letters to young Black men inspiring them to overcome adversity and reach their true potential in his uplifting book, “Letters to a Young Brother.”

“Wouldn’t Take Nothing For My Journey Now” by Maya Angelou

Although it may not feel like it in the moment, all of our experiences (both good and bad) play an important role in shaping the person we become.

“Wouldn’t Take Nothing For My Journey Now” is a collection of essays from Maya Angelou in which she shares words of wisdom about how she has navigated life’s journey, hardships and all.

“The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom” by Don Miguel Ruiz

There’s a reason why “The Four Agreements” has been a bestseller for nearly 30 years. The book offers four simple principles for finding happiness – be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions and always do your best.

“Sisters of the Yam: Black Women and Self-Recovery” by bell hooks

In “Sisters of the Yam,” bell hooks writes about the impact sexism and racism have on Black women’s emotional well-being. But she doesn’t just write about the problem, she also offers strategies Black women can use to empower themselves and move through the healing process.

“Badass Black Girl: Quotes, Questions and Affirmations for Teens” by M.J. Fievre

If you’re worried about how all of the current chaos is affecting your teens, “Badass Black Girl,” a book geared towards Black tween and teen girls ages 12-16 can be a great resource. Author M.J. Fievre uses quotes from successful Black women and positive affirmations to help young Black girls learn to love the skin they’re in and embrace their unique talents and abilities.

“Black Pearls: Daily Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations for African-Americans” by Eric V. Copage

Let’s face it, life is hard and sometimes we just need to hear someone tell us we can handle all of the curves that are thrown our way. In “Black Pearls,” author Eric V. Copage shares a year’s worth of inspirational words to help Black people find the strength they need to be great.

“When Things Fall Apart” by Pema Chödrön

Pain is inevitable, but how you deal with it is what makes the difference. As Pema Chödrön writes in “When Things Fall Apart,” leaning in rather than running away is one of the best ways to begin the healing process.

“You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience and the Black Experience” edited by Tarana Burke & Brené Brown

Imani Perry, Kiese Laymon and Marc Lamont Hill are just a few of the amazing writers ‘Me Too’ movement founder Tarana Burke called on to contribute to “You Are Your Best Thing,” a collection of essays about resilience in the face of systemic trauma – including white supremacy.

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” has been a must-read for athletes, entertainers and CEOs for decades. In the book, author Stephen R. Covey outlines the principles he believes are key to achieving personal and professional success, including taking initiative, being goal-oriented, and making time for self-renewal.

“Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Brené Brown

If you think only weak people allow themselves to be vulnerable, you need to check out Brené Brown’s “Daring Greatly.” In the book, she writes about how allowing yourself to be vulnerable takes courage and opens us up to experience more genuine connections and live a more purposeful life.