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Chicago Tribune
6 days ago
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Ranju Kunwor: Are self-help books really helping us?
If you're a reader, and you're on Instagram, chances are the algorithm has fed you posts promising that 'this book will change your life' or touting 'five books that made me successful.' These claims are compelling. They make me pause and ask a deeper question: Are self-help books really helping us? I'll say this up front: One book cannot change your life. One self-help book will not transform your mindset, your habits or your emotional health, but the habit of reading might. I recently read 'The Mountain Is You' by Brianna Wiest. It's a popular title in the self-help space — concise, digestible and motivational. It reads like the TikTok version of a self-help book: short chapters, compact insights and neatly packaged advice on how we sabotage ourselves. But it lacks depth and doesn't provoke critical thought. It offers little in the way of evidence-based guidance, psychological analysis or room for ambiguity. In our fast-paced world, readers want quick fixes and digestible answers. But philosophy, healing, and self-understanding cannot be condensed into bite-sized commands. A book that tells you what to do and insists you are the problem risks flattening the complexity of the human experience. I do believe mindset matters. Optimism, when grounded in reality, can be powerful. But self-help culture tends to treat optimism like a cure-all as if every problem is just a thought pattern waiting to be reversed. Sometimes, realism is what we need. Sometimes, we don't need affirmation; we need analysis. Here are some of the problems with self-help books: Some books in this genre, however, are truly valuable. One example is 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear, and it is good because it provides structured approaches to behavioral change, not just motivation. Creating a way of life that suits you the best, that gets the best out of you, helps you live your purpose, is an ever-changing process. Change needs more thought, deeper thoughts, than a book just telling you what to do. So, if you really want to improve your life, question your purpose, develop a way of thinking, broaden your perspective or even improve your habits in general, I suggest reading philosophy books. Philosophy books are more elaborate and thought-provoking version of these modern self-help books. My suggestions? Read to learn and have fun. Read as a hobby and as a way of living, not just to improve yourself. Do not read thinking that a book will change your life. Read books that challenge you, not just ones that affirm you. If you truly want to grow, don't just read self-help books. Read philosophy. Read psychology. Read fiction. Read anything that expands your thinking and deepens your empathy. Build real-life connections. Be with genuine people, who are genuinely positive and striving for success (if not successful) — those ambitious people who lift you up. If you read self-help, let it be a supplement, not a substitute for therapy, mentorship or systemic change. Be skeptical of any book that implies you alone are the problem or you alone are the solution. Live authentically! Authentic living with integrity is happiness. Self-improvement is a noble pursuit. But make sure you are not living someone else's ideals. You define your goal; you go at your own pace. We are all trying to get better, learn, evolve, be the best version of ourselves and connect with each other. We are all similar: We all have moments when we feel inadequate, and we are all in this together. If things feel fast-paced, like you need to constantly improve, if you feel like you cannot catch up, maybe slowing down is what you need. And maybe you can slow down by reading meaningful books, or novels that you enjoy, and not a self-help book. One book won't change our life, but the habit of reading might.
Entrepreneur
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Entrepreneur
9 Surprising Habits That Boost Your Leadership and Wellness — Without Taking More Time
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Habit stacking has been a cornerstone of my routine-building process for years. The concept is simple, and you've likely heard it from James Clear's Atomic Habits: link a new habit to one you're already doing, so it becomes automatic. I've written about my habit stacks before, and like most entrepreneurs, I'm always looking for ways to save time, build momentum and be more intentional with how I show up. Recently, I've been refining my stacks to move beyond productivity into leadership, parenting and wellness. These new combinations aren't just about efficiency. They're about becoming more present, connected and calm in the midst of what I call a colorful chaos of a lifestyle. Below are nine of my current favorite habit stacks and how I've integrated them into my day-to-day life. Join top CEOs, founders and operators at the Level Up conference to unlock strategies for scaling your business, boosting revenue and building sustainable success. 1. The commute + strategy and thinking stack Driving, walking or riding in silence is an opportunity to think through client challenges and brainstorm creative marketing angles. Sometimes it's as simple as asking myself, "What does this brand really need right now to stand out?" I'll record voice memos with campaign hooks, positioning angles or influencer strategies while they're fresh. By the time I arrive at my destination, I've often mapped out a starting point for a pitch deck or messaging update. It's one of the most productive ways I get ahead on client work, without opening a laptop. Related: Super Commuting Is on the Rise, Here's Why and How It Works 2. The kids' bedtime + gratitude stack As a mother to two teenage boys, bedtime in our house has outgrown brushing teeth and reading stories. My husband and I now go to bed before our boys, but we still find time to slow down and reflect. We call our boys in, talk about our days, from school to sports and even things that made them laugh. I always ask them to name three things they are grateful for or proud of from the day. My husband and I share ours as well. It's a grounding practice for all of us, and a real-time way to build emotional intelligence. 3. The scroll + connection stack Social media doesn't have to be a waste of time. Before I log on, I set a simple rule: Leave three meaningful comments on posts from peers, clients or people I admire. Not just emojis or "love this," but thoughtful responses that show I'm paying attention. It's a small but powerful way to build relationships, stay engaged in conversations, and yes, it helps my algorithm too. When I find content that resonates, I'll save it for future inspiration or send it to a client or colleague who might benefit. Social media is a two-way street — it works best when it's actually social. Related: I Work Nearly 50+ Hours a Week and Rarely Feel Tired 4. The calendar review + prioritization stack Each morning, I scan my calendar to map out the day and be clear on what truly matters around work, my wellness and my family. Before I dive into emails or meetings, I ask myself: What is the one thing I absolutely need to move forward today? I write it down. Sometimes it's a client strategy deck, a call I've been putting off or even carving out quiet time to think. After this, I anchor my day around that one priority. It's a simple ritual that helps me lead my businesses and my household with more clarity and ensures I make progress on the things that matter most. 5. The toothbrush + balance training stack Those two minutes of brushing your teeth? They're the perfect chance to opt out of a mindless scroll and sneak in a wellness win. I'll do mini band walks across the bathroom or stand on one leg and engage my core for balance. It forces me to focus, be present and fire up muscles that don't always get attention during the day. It's not about breaking a sweat, it's about building body awareness. Give it a try. You'd be surprised how shaky your balance might be and how much sharper you feel afterward. Related: 3 Daily Habits That Will Positively Affect and Protect Your Mental Health 6. The errands run + business insights stack Whether you make mattresses, apparel or the next nutrition breakthrough, every founder should walk the aisles like a student. When I'm in a store, I scan the shelves not just for dinner ingredients, but also for packaging inspiration, signage language and promo strategies that pop. I take photos of anything that catches my eye. It's real-world market research, and in the consumer brand space, there's no better classroom. Alongside running my marketing and consulting agency, I recently launched my own body care line, Anything Brands, and I've added the health and beauty aisle to my routine. The company was born from a need I saw firsthand for something natural, effective and joyful in a category often filled with harsh chemicals or overly clinical branding. I shop with two hats on: founder and strategist. 7. The laundry + relationship stack I use folding laundry as a time to connect, and with my real voice. I'll call a friend, check in on a client or send a short voice note to someone in my network. It's a simple way to keep relationships warm and turn a chore into something meaningful. This morning, while folding laundry, I called a past client and friend, Michelle Marciniak, Final Four MVP at the University of Tennessee, WNBA standout, former USC basketball coach, SHEEX Co-Founder and now GM of Arizona Women's Basketball. We caught up on life, family and a project we may collaborate on in the future. I hadn't spoken to her in three years, and it's a reminder of how easy it can be to reconnect and how good it feels to nurture the friendships that matter. 8. The team meeting + culture stack At the end of every 1:1 or team sync, I ask one personal or growth-oriented question. My favorite: "What's one thing you learned this week?" It opens the door to deeper conversation and reminds my team that growth matters as much as results. My friend Cody Barbo, Founder and CEO of Trust & Will, takes it a step further. He opens every board meeting with a gratitude practice and closes all-company meetings the same way. He shared with me, "Gratitude check-ins have enriched our company culture because we get to know each other on a more personal level and build deeper appreciation, especially in a fast-paced environment like ours." Related: Why Gratitude Makes Leaders More Effective 9. The hard workout or cold shower + affirmation stack Zone five heart rate workouts and cold therapy are not just for athletes. When I am pushing through a tough workout interval, I use mantras like "Relentless" or "You've got this" to power through. For those who do not favor the high intensity or heavy lifting, I suggest ending your morning showers with 30 seconds of cold water, which delivers health benefits and mental clarity. While you're under the cold, repeat a simple phrase like "I can do hard things." It's a jolt to the nervous system, in the best way. Over time, this practice builds resilience in business, relationships and life. Remember that the magic happens just outside the comfort zone. Habit stacking isn't about squeezing more into your day. It's about being intentional with what's already there and making your current routines work harder for you. For me, it's how I stay grounded while running a business, showing up for my family and leading with clarity. When you pair the right actions together, momentum becomes effortless, and as any founder or leader knows, momentum is how we keep moving everything forward.
Indian Express
14-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Read these 6 life-changing books in 2025 for better habits and creative success
Written by Krishika Dinesh Rathod In the ever-evolving chaos of deadlines, burnout, social media fatigue, and the constant chase for purpose, motivation can often feel like a rare luxury. But sometimes, the right book can act like a matchstick—reigniting your spark, guiding you gently but firmly out of your slump. it's clear that people are not only craving productivity, but also connection, creativity, and meaning. Whether you're trying to kickstart a new habit, redefine success, or simply believe in yourself again, here are six life-altering books that offer more than just words—they offer perspective. From atomic changes in your habits to magical breakthroughs in creativity and community, these reads are the emotional and intellectual fuel your year needs. James Clear's Atomic Habits has practically become a modern bible for those seeking sustainable change. Rather than pushing massive overhauls, the book promotes the philosophy of 1% improvements—small actions done consistently that lead to remarkable transformations over time. Whether you're struggling with procrastination, trying to stay consistent at the gym, or simply want to wake up earlier, this book teaches you how to design systems that work for you. What sets this apart is its practicality. Backed by behavioral psychology and personal anecdotes, Clear shows you how to stack good habits, remove friction from your life, and rewire your identity. It's not about motivation—it's about method. Price: ₹599 Publisher: Random House Business Books Pages: 320 Before James Clear, there was Charles Duhigg—whose The Power of Habit explained the neuroscience behind how habits form and how we can take control of them. Drawing from riveting real-life case studies—like how Febreze almost failed or how Starbucks trains its baristas—Duhigg explains the cue-routine-reward loop that governs most of our behaviors. This book isn't just for personal improvement but also dives into how habits shape companies, communities, and movements. For anyone curious about the deep science of behavior, this one is a brilliant and eye-opening journey into the mechanics of change. Price: ₹499 Publisher: Random House UK Pages: 371 If you've ever said 'no' out of fear or imposter syndrome, Year of Yes will feel like a permission slip to finally say 'yes' to life. Shonda Rhimes—the powerhouse behind Grey's Anatomy and Scandal—was a shy introvert who preferred staying behind the scenes. Until one day, her sister casually remarked, 'You never say yes to anything.' That one sentence sparked a transformational year of saying 'yes' to things that scared her. What follows is a humorous, emotional, and empowering narrative that challenges you to expand your world by stepping outside your comfort zone. Rhimes' voice is authentic, relatable, and inspiring—a must-read for anyone afraid to take up space. Price: ₹699 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Pages: 352 Creativity is not just for artists—it's a life force. In Big Magic, Elizabeth Gilbert (of Eat, Pray, Love fame) invites readers to engage with creativity in its most liberating form. With equal parts whimsy and wisdom, she discusses fear, perfectionism, originality, and what it means to live a creative life. Gilbert doesn't romanticize the artist's struggle. Instead, she offers a hopeful, joyous approach to creating without pressure. Whether you're a writer, entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to try something new, this book gives you permission to start without waiting to be perfect. Price: ₹499 Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Pages: 288 In 2025, when digital connections are plentiful but real friendships are rare, Jennie Allen's Find Your People feels timely and urgent. This book dives deep into the epidemic of loneliness and the human need for belonging. Rather than focusing on superficial social tips, Allen explores how vulnerability, shared rhythms, and intentionality help build deep, soulful relationships. It's especially relevant for young adults navigating post-pandemic isolation or those who've relocated for work or studies. Packed with research, spiritual insight, and practical exercises, it's a heartfelt guide to rebuilding your social fabric. Price: ₹699 Publisher: WaterBrook Pages: 256 What makes a life truly fulfilling? That's the central question The Good Life attempts to answer through the lens of the world's longest scientific study on happiness—the Harvard Study of Adult Development. Waldinger and Schulz, the directors of this landmark study, reveal that strong relationships—not wealth or fame—are the key to long-term well-being. Drawing on over 80 years of interviews, data, and stories, this book is both deeply scientific and emotionally moving. It's perfect for those in search of purpose, re-evaluating their priorities, or wondering what really matters in the long run. Price: ₹799 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Pages: 352 Each of these six books has the potential to shift your mindset in 2025—whether it's building better habits, chasing your creativity, deepening relationships, or learning to say 'yes' to yourself. What unites them all is a core belief: growth doesn't have to be loud or flashy. It can be quiet, consistent, and deeply personal. So, if you're looking to reset, reflect, or rise in the year ahead let one (or all) of these books be your starting point. (The writer is an intern with
Entrepreneur
28-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Struggling to Stick to a Routine? Here's How AI Can Help
With the right systems in place, consistency stops feeling like a grind and starts feeling automatic. AI won't do the work for you — but it can make it a lot easier. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. I've always believed that consistency beats intensity. At the gym, I exercise for 30 minutes daily, rather than several grueling hours once a week. Every morning, I commit to writing 400 words, which I much prefer to banging out half a book in one caffeine-fueled haze. In the early years of building my company, there were no massive funding rounds — just showing up day in, day out, solving problems and improving my product one step at a time. That's why this quote from Atomic Habits author James Clear has always stuck with me: "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." In other words, it's not your ambition that carries you forward — it's your habits. And the truth is, building good habits is hard, especially when you're running a business. You're pulled in a hundred different directions, and it's easy for even the most adamant resolutions to fall apart after a few days. Even so, building routines can be tough — they require persistence, dedication and a surprising amount of mental energy just to stay on track. You have to remember your goals, fight off distractions and constantly reorient yourself when things get chaotic. But here's the good news: You don't have to do it all manually. Thanks to AI, it's now possible to build systems that help you stay consistent without burning out. I've always been pretty adamant about my routines, but now, it's easier than ever. Here's how I'm approaching it. Related: 7 Ways AI Made My Work Smarter — and Not Harder Use AI as an accountability partner At work, you've got a manager (or a board). At the gym, you may have a trainer. It's clear that having someone to hold you accountable adds an extra layer of urgency to achieving your goals. After all, it's harder to blow off that morning workout knowing you're keeping someone waiting (who you'll still have to pay if you hit snooze). With AI, accountability doesn't have to be external. AI agents — autonomous decision-makers that can take action on your behalf, in particular, can do more than just nudge you about your to-do list. They can check in, track progress, adapt routines and even suggest improvements. That kind of support system used to require a team. Now, it can be built into your daily workflow. Say you struggle, for example, with carving out time to work on a new product. Tools like Motion integrate directly with your calendar to track your habits, block focus time and adjust dynamically when conflicts arise. If you want to start prioritizing an hour of deep work every day post-morning coffee, a tool like this can afford these commitments the same weight as a meeting, automatically protecting your time and reminding you when it's time to get started. Cut down on decision fatigue One of the biggest reasons we abandon routines isn't a lack of motivation — it's decision fatigue. Considering the average person makes 35,000 decisions a day, it's no wonder we struggle to effectively prioritize our time. When every action requires mental effort, from choosing what to work on to when to do it, we quickly burn out. Ironically, creating structure is one of the best ways to stave off the pressure of making decisions. I often think of the advice I've heard from pro athletes, who afford themselves zero room for waffling or negotiating when it comes to their training schedules. It's cold out today? Too bad. They didn't sleep well the night before? Also, too bad. There's no decision involved — only doing. That level of consistency doesn't come from motivation — it comes from removing choice from the equation. And that's where AI can play a powerful role. By automating the when, what and even how long, AI systems help you stick to routines without needing to summon willpower every time. And while it's true that no tool can force you to follow through on a commitment, they can do the next best thing: Cut off your access to distractions. When I can't trust myself not to procrastinate a task I'd rather avoid, I use a platform like Freedom, which simply blocks my ability to lose myself in online distractions. It's simple, but incredibly effective. Related: Why Smart Entrepreneurs Let AI Do the Heavy Business Lifting Don't just build routines — design systems A lot of people confuse routines with checklists: wake up, meditate, answer emails, repeat. But the most effective routines aren't strict — they're adaptive. They fluctuate with your schedule, adapt to your goals and grow along with you. That's where AI shines — not just in tracking habits, but in helping you design systems that actually fit your life. Say your kid gets sick and needs to get picked up from school, or even go to the doctor. Life happens. But it doesn't mean your whole day needs to fall apart completely. For this, I like Reclaim and Clockwise, which can intelligently reschedule tasks when your best-laid plans take a sudden turn. Instead of you adjusting to your routine, the system adjusts to you. With the right systems in place, consistency stops feeling like a grind and starts feeling automatic. AI won't do the work for you — but it can make it a lot easier to show up, day after day, and keep moving forward.
India.com
27-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- India.com
7 Best Self-Improvement Books That Changed My Life
photoDetails english 2922949 These 7 self-improvement books offer powerful lessons on habits, mindset, resilience, and purpose. From Atomic Habits to The Power of Now each novel provides practical strategies and deep insights for personal growth in life. Whether you're seeking discipline, clarity, or emotional healing, these books can inspire real and drastic change and help you become the best version of yourself. Updated:Jun 27, 2025, 12:09 PM IST Habits by James Clear: 1 / 7 Atomic Habits by James Clear: This is one of the best-selling books that teaches how small changes in daily habits can lead to remarkable long-term results. James Clear breaks down habit formation using science-backed strategies, and through this, he makes self-improvement simple and sustainable. A book everyone must have in their wardrobe if you are looking to transform your routines. ( All Image Credits: Amazon/ Gemini) 2. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: 2 / 7 The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: The author of this book urges readers to live in the present moment rather than being stuck in past regrets or future anxieties. A powerful book that helps reduce stress and increase mindfulness,also reshaping how we approach life and time. 3. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: 3 / 7 Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: This is known as one of the most iconic self-help books, as it blends personal success stories with timeless principles of wealth, mindset and also goal settings. The author Hill emphasizes the power of belief, persistence and also clearly defined desires in achieving success in life. 4. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey: 4 / 7 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey: This classic novel focuses on character-building habits that foster both personal and professional success. In this book, you will find the author's holistic approach, which includes both being proactive and prioritizing wisely, a book or a timeless guide for leadership and growth. 5. You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay: 5 / 7 You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay: Through this book Louise introduces the idea that your thoughts and beliefs are the one which shape your physical and emotional health. And through affirmations and self-love practices, the book empowers readers to break limiting beliefs and embrace healing and positivity in their life. 6. Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins: 6 / 7 Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins: In this novel the author shares his life journey from trauma and obesity to becoming a Navy SEAL and endurance athlete. With this book he motivates people through his philosophy of mental toughness and pushing beyond limits which is also brutally honest. 7. Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven: 7 / 7 Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven: This book is inspired by a Navy SEAL speech. A short but impactful book offers life lessons based on military training. From making your bed to standing tall under pressure, a must book that teaches small habits lead to big changes.
