Stop Trying to Be Your Best Self
A new book argues that being sort of confident is enough.
Marisa G. Franco, author of the best-selling Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make—and Keep—Friends, has penned a new book, Worth: The New Science of Self-Esteem and Secure Attachment. Franco's latest work explores the concept of self-esteem and secure attachment, challenging the notion that it's possible to become more self-assured.
In her new book, Franco suggests that it may be impossible to achieve true self-confidence. She argues that most people are simply insecure and that trying to change that may lead to disappointment. Franco explains that the self-improvement industry has grown exponentially in recent years, with U.S. self-help book sales reaching $813 million in 2023 alone.
The rise of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Spotify has only added to the constant stream of life advice available to consumers. Franco believes that the self-help industry may not be helping people as much as it claims to. She argues that many people are already familiar with therapy-speak and are seeking to present themselves as healed and enlightened.
Franco suggests that instead of chasing after a perfect version of oneself, people should embrace their insecurities and accept their "weak or tender spots." She acknowledges that this might seem like a defeatist argument, but she believes it's important to recognize the reality of human nature. Franco's book is a departure from the typical self-help genre, as it encourages readers to question the validity of their pursuit of self-improvement.
She wants to help readers unlearn the guidance they've already received and instead focus on feeling secure in their own skin.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
