explores the efficacy of self-help books in bringing about lasting personal change. The piece highlights the excitement and subsequent skepticism that often accompanies New Year’s resolutions and extends this skepticism to self-help books. Many people doubt the lasting impact of these books, dismissing them as filled with motivational platitudes but lacking in enduring results.

However, the author, a self-professed fan of the genre, advocates for a selective approach, favoring books with substantive cognitive frameworks grounded in science and experience. These books, according to the author, offer valuable perspectives and practical tools for sustainable change in aspects of personal and professional life.

The article advises against passive reading of self-help books. Instead, it suggests a proactive approach, treating the book as a project with tasks, trackers, and plans. It emphasizes the importance of applying the tools and exercises provided in these books rather than merely reading them at bedtime.

Additionally, the article stresses the need for slow and deliberate reading, encouraging readers to highlight key points, keep a journal or diary to track progress, and make notes. This approach ensures that the book’s lessons are applied to specific life issues, facilitating real change.

Revisiting the books periodically is also recommended to reinforce the lessons learned. The article concludes by listing five recommended self-help books for the year 2024, which includes titles such as “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron and “Atomic Habits” by James Clear​​​​​​​​​​.