Words by: Olivia Conder
Art by: Angela Jessica 

We’ve all been there, standing in the self-help section of a bookstore, wondering if these books actually work or if they’re just another marketing gimmick. With topics ranging from finance and relationships to self-love and the meaning of life, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

It’s a question that we all want to know the answer to.

Do self-help books lead to real growth, or are they simply a waste of money?

For me, one book that truly helped was The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. This wasn’t a book about overnight transformations, but instead, it offered a deep dive into the concept of letting go of things beyond our control, something I had struggled with for years. I spent so much time trying to control every aspect of my life. Whether this was making sure I got an invite to a party or simply getting bogged down by others’ expectations, I needed to be in control. Robbins’ approach was a breath of fresh air, helping me break free from a cycle of frustration. By focusing on myself, I’ve been able to take control of my life healthily. 

Robbin’s theory is simple yet powerful. When we ‘let them’ —  the people, events, and circumstances that are beyond our control — do what they do, it creates more emotional peace and power for us.

What resonated most was that The Let Them Theory was a book grounded in research, not just feel-good mantras or empty affirmations. It offered a real method, one that required my active participation. It taught me how to let go of things I couldn’t change, ultimately improving my mood, mindset, and overall well-being. If I had approached the book with scepticism or simply read it without applying the concepts, I’m not sure I would have seen any change.

Whether self-help books are legit or just a waste of money depends on how you approach them. If you go in willing to engage and apply the lessons taught, they can absolutely be a valuable tool for personal growth. However, if you’re seeking a quick fix or expect them to magically solve your problems without any effort on your part, they’ll likely leave you disappointed.

Self-help books are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but with an open mindset, they can offer insight, strategies, and perspectives that facilitate growth. So, are they worth the investment? If you’re ready to put in the work and help yourself, they most definitely are.