When you're in the midst of a transition, whether it's career, relationship, finances or all of the above, sometimes it's helpful to hear a word from an expert or someone who has already been where you're trying to go. Although the term 'self-help' can sometimes come across as corny or preachy, the following black authors have woven humorous, poignant and super-relatable stories to help you get your life. Here are 11 self-help books to help you through any situation.
1. Naked: Black Women Bare All About Their Skin, Hair, Hips, Lips, and Other Parts edited by Ayana Byrd and Akiba Solomon
Who hasn't struggled with body image at some point? This collection of essays tells the stories of black women who are learning to love every inch of their round, tall, brown, bright and perfectly imperfect bodies.
2. The Happy Vegan: A Guide to Living a Long, Healthy, and Successful Life by Russell Simmons
Thinking of going vegan? The original hip-hop mogul drops knowledge in this inspiring guide on the benefits of conscious eating and veganism.
3. The Misadventures of Awkward Black girl by Issa Rae
For all you introverts out there, let Issa Rae help you find the humor in your awkwardness. This collection of essays will inspire you to embrace the idea of navigating the world as an introverted black woman.
4. Standing In the Shadows by John Head
Depression is not a game. This book deals with the depths of black men’s buried mental and emotional pain with a cultural analysis of how the illness is perceived in the black community—and why nobody wants to talk about it.
5. The One Week Budget by Tiffany 'The Budgetnista' Aliche
This lesson in financial literacy from Budgetnista will help you get your money right.
6. Greatness is Upon You by Eric Thomas
If you need a fiery personal hype-man to energize you toward your goals, Eric Thomas is the guru for you.
7. Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
8. Black Pearls: Daily Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations for African-Americans by Eric V. Copage
9. The Broke Diaries by Angela Nissel
If you are a cash poor undergrad, this hilarious day-to-day chronicle of one college students adventures in broke-assness is sure to make you feel better about your life.
10. Too Heavy a Load: Black Women in Defense of Themselves, 1894-1994 by Deborah Gray White
Struggling to navigate the realities of racism and sexism? You aren't the first. This book documents a century of black women, from Ida B. Wells to Anita Hill, who have championed their own defense amidst gender and race politics.
11. The Conversation: How Men and Women Can Build Loving, Trusting Relationships by Hill Harper
Ready for a meaningful relationship? Let Hill Harper coach you through some of the challenges facing black love within the context of the African-American experience.