5 of the Best Self-Help Books to Read During Lockdown

Let’s face it, the world is far from normal right now. There is nothing normal about spending all day everyday confined to our homes. Whilst working in pyjamas and not having to spend Monday mornings pressed against a stranger’s armpit on the tube has felt like a blessing at times, there’s an underlying feeling of uncertainty and fear. The pandemic has turned our world completely upside down for the past six months and it’s completely normal to admit that you might be struggling. It’s ok to not have launched a new business, or learnt a new language this year, it’s ok if you’re struggling to do anything but basic everyday functions. 

During a time, such as this, self-care is incredibly important for our mental health, and that can be anything from exercise, to not overextending yourself, learning to say no and also learning when to ask for help. If you’re currently feeling uninspired and in need of a boost, our top Self-Help reads might be just what you need to feel a sense of clarity and hope, whatever your circumstances. Whether you’re trying to navigate a breakup, confidence crisis or overcome negative emotions. 

Here are our top 5 Self-Help books to read during lockdown… 

From Broken to Brave by Sam Pearce

“This book is dedicated to those who dared to say ‘enough is enough’”. This ground-breaking personal memoir from Sam Pearce takes us on a journey of the powerful lessons learnt from pain, loss, abuse and eventually, successful entrepreneurship. With an overarching message of not letting your past dictate your future, Sam draws on her own life experiences of and hopes that from this, you may find some answers to the questions you are facing in your own life.

From Broken to Brave is available for pre-order and 50% of the pre-order profits will go to the charity Refuge Against Domestic Violence – Help for women & children. Find out more at https://frombrokentobrave.co.uk

From Crisis to Confidence by Claire Black

Have you ever felt heartbreak from a sudden breakup? Shock, betrayal, confusion and fear are just some of the emotions author, Claire Black, experienced when her own marriage suddenly came to an end in 2008. If you’re currently going through a break-up then Claire’s practical guide will help you to effectively manage your emotions and take back control of your life. Lockdown has been a testing time for many relationships, with normal life taken away, and being replaced with an intense and challenging situation which has forced a complete change of dynamic. Don’t fear, this is the blueprint you need for your new life.

Available to purchase at https://www.claireblackcoaching.com/buy-my-book

Emotional Fitness: A-Z for Positive Mental Health by Clare Davis 

This book is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand more about their emotions, and, how to control them. Experienced coach and trainer, Clare Davis, provides 26 straight-forward ways to increase positive emotions and improve your emotional fitness. The book includes practical activities to put theory into practice, and even space for a few doodles too! If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed and in need of inspiration, this is the perfect book to pick up on a rainy lockdown afternoon.

Find out more at https://www.novaassociates.co.uk/mental-health-book

The Life-Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**ck by Sarah Knight

Is life underwhelming you? Are you feeling consistently more stressed? Putting other people’s happiness before your own? Then here is a book you absolutely must-read. The New York Times Bestseller will help you to define what really matters in your life. You’ll laugh, possibly cry, definitely nod in agreement, and realise, that, actually, you can live a more stress-free life. An easy, feel-good read, as long as you don’t mind a few swear-words along the way.

Buy now at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Life-Changing-Magic-Not-Giving-bestselling/dp/1784298468/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 

Good Vibes, Good Life: A Real-World Guide to Achieving a Greater Life by Vex King

Over 300,000 people can’t be wrong. Join the self-love revolution with inspirational speaker, Vex King. Drawing from his own experiences, King, shares how to transform negative emotions in positive ones, and unlock your full potential. You will learn how to practice self-care, manifest your goals, overcome fear and find your higher purpose. If you’re seeking a life full of meaning and positivity, then this might just be the book that’s going to change your world. It’s honest, it’s powerful and it’s genuine. A must-read for all!

Find out more at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vex-King/e/B07F441XGS%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share 

This year in particular has been a year of anxiety, fear and uncertainty for many. Don’t struggle in silence, reach out. For more information and support visit https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool 

Tilly-Jayne Kidman

Tilly is a graduate in fashion marketing and currently works in social media. She writes for various publications including the Huffington Post as well as her own fashion and lifestyle blog tillyjayne.com. In her spare time she's usually wandering around her home city of Cambridge, making travel plans or finding a new restaurant to try out.