6 Self-Help Myths Busted: Unlock Authentic Growth - by Jon Brooks

COURSE

6 Self-Help Myths Busted: Unlock Authentic Growth

With Jon Brooks

Join me on a transformative journey of personal growth and self-discovery as we challenge the norms and uncover the true essence of self-improvement. In this comprehensive course, we will explore various aspects of personal development, starting with a critical examination of success and the myths that surround it. We delve into the psychology of self-perception and the dangers of excessive self-help consumption, shifting our focus towards self-acceptance and targeted learning. Discover the power of negative thinking in overcoming challenges and developing resilience, drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy and practical cognitive therapy interventions. Explore the hidden potential of procrastination as an emotional response and learn effective techniques to conquer tasks and embrace productivity. We also navigate the complex landscape of finding meaningful work, challenging the notion of following your passion and emphasizing the importance of aligning natural strengths with career choices. Finally, we delve into the complexities of emotional expression, debunking the belief that freely expressing emotions is always beneficial and highlighting the need for discernment and balance. Embark on this enlightening journey towards personal growth, fulfillment, and a more authentic approach to self-improvement.


Meet your Teacher

Jon Brooks is a passionate teacher and practitioner of Stoicism. He uses his martial arts background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to innovate new methods to learn and master this ancient philosophical blueprint for the good life.

read more

6 Days

1.8k students

4.8 stars

8 min / day

Happiness

English


Lesson 1

On Success

In a world teeming with self-proclaimed gurus and misleading advice, it's time to challenge the status quo and uncover a more authentic path to personal development. Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking exploration, dissecting the popular notions of self-help and revealing the pitfalls that can hinder genuine growth. Prepare to debunk common myths, question established formulas of success, and embrace a more nuanced understanding of our own journey. With clarity and insight, we'll navigate the complexities of personal growth, acknowledging the role of chance, acknowledging the role of chance, timing, and unforeseen variables in shaping our lives. Get ready to step beyond the facade and discover the true essence of self-improvement.

read more

Lesson 2

On Reading Self-Improvement Books

In this lesson we explore the intriguing psychology of self-perception theory and its impact on our pursuit of personal growth. In this thought-provoking lesson, we delve into the hidden dangers of excessive self-help consumption and the subconscious reinforcement of inadequacy it can perpetuate. Discover a fresh perspective on self-improvement as a practical training manual for living, rather than an endless quest for perfection. By shifting our focus from fixing perceived deficiencies to embracing self-acceptance, we unlock the true potential within us. Explore the power of targeted learning, prioritizing foundational aspects of life, and approaching self-help with a sense of light joy. It's time to redefine your approach to personal growth and embrace a path of genuine fulfillment and contentment.

read more

Lesson 3

On Negative Thinking

In the realm of personal development, we're often encouraged to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. However, what if negative thinking holds hidden potential for a fulfilling life free from suffering? Join us in this enlightening audio lesson as we explore the fascinating origins of self-improvement techniques in Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy. Discover the incredible power of negative visualization, a practice employed by the Stoics to enhance gratitude and resilience. We'll delve into how negative thinking can be harnessed to overcome anxiety, achieve goals, and prepare for life's inevitable setbacks. Drawing from cognitive therapy interventions, research findings, and the innovative WOOP Model, you'll learn how to strike a balance between optimism and realistic planning. By embracing the strength of negative thinking, you'll gain a new perspective on personal growth and develop invaluable strategies for navigating life's challenges. Begin your journey towards a more resilient and purposeful existence today.

read more

Lesson 4

On Procrastination

Unleash the Hidden Power of Procrastination in this captivating lesson that challenges conventional wisdom. Explore procrastination as an emotional response rather than a mere time management issue, uncovering its potential for enhanced productivity. Delve into the concept of "structured procrastination" and learn from the experiences of historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci. Discover practical techniques such as the Immediate Action Technique and the Momentum Builder Technique to conquer tasks big and small. Embrace emotional management as a key tool for navigating procrastination and unlock its untapped potential. Join us on this transformative journey and harness the hidden power of procrastination for a more fulfilling and balanced life.

read more

Lesson 5

On Following Your Passions

In this lesson, we challenge the popular notion of "follow your passion" and delve into a more nuanced approach to finding work that you are truly passionate about. Drawing insights from Cal Newport's book "So Good They Can't Ignore You," we explore how passion is not necessarily the starting point but rather an outcome of doing work that aligns with your natural strengths and talents. Discover the importance of honing your skills and finding work that allows you to utilize your unique abilities, leading to a sense of fulfillment and passion. We also touch on the balance between financial stability and pursuing your creative endeavors, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and making sacrifices without compromising your well-being. Whether you're seeking career guidance or contemplating the intersection of passion and practicality, this lesson offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of finding work you are truly passionate about.

read more

Lesson 6

On Emotions

In this thought-provoking audio lesson, we challenge the common notion that expressing our emotions freely is always beneficial. Drawing on research and insights from experts in the field, we explore the complexities of emotional expression and its impact on our well-being. Delving into studies that reveal counterintuitive findings, we examine how not all forms of emotional expression lead to positive outcomes. We discuss the importance of recognizing and regulating our emotions based on cultural and personal "feeling rules." While acknowledging the significance of owning and acknowledging our emotions, we emphasize the need for discernment in how we express them. By adopting a balanced approach that focuses on learning from our emotions rather than blindly venting them, we can cultivate emotional health and meaningful connections. Join us in this enlightening lesson as we explore the nuances of emotional expression and its impact on our lives.

read more


4.8 (141)

Recent Reviews

Kate

August 8, 2025

Very interesting course! I love the way you question everything

Ramona

April 11, 2025

Exceptional class on rethinking the things we have been taught. Ideas on procrastination and balanced visualization are immediate changes I will be making.

Barry

March 16, 2025

Great insights and interesting information

Torie

December 3, 2024

Another great course

That

November 9, 2024

Just as Jon’s other courses and tracks, very well done, thought out, inspirational and full of actionable information and insight. Thank you!

Faye

November 3, 2024

Another really helpful course, thank you 🧡

Amy

October 25, 2024

Thought-provoking short course… So easy to fall into the snare of letting books tell you what to do and/or feel worse about yourself because you’re not following some ideal model. Especially liked the lessons on procrastination and meaningful work. Thanks for putting this out there!

Dan

August 16, 2024

Thank you for creating this.

Kelly

July 30, 2024

Very interesting food for thought and some sound advice. Thank you 🙏

T.T.

July 3, 2024

By far my favorite Stoic Course 🙏

Tom

June 5, 2024

Jon always delivers a concise and useful presentation of useful and actionable information. Thank you

Karen

April 26, 2024

Jon-- you are my mentor and I thank you for sharing your wisdom.

Thom

April 17, 2024

Good stuff, that makes sense

Timo

April 5, 2024

Wonderful, so many new perspectives I haven't had considered so far. It's been a pleasure to participate in this course, I think I learned so much and have many new thoughts that I now need to think about. Thank you very much!

Inez

February 18, 2024

This has been an absolute delight! A 'no nonsense' practical course that covers at least two, if not all, relevant areas peculiar to you or your current situation. The course content is unique as it lays bare the ever growing popularity of personal growth and our need to want to beat ourselves up if we don't 'get' it!! Thank you. I shall revisit this again!

Chris

February 12, 2024

Really good course. Cuts through alot of nonsense with practical approaches to common issues. I have learnt a different perspective and am excited to see where it leads me. Thank you Jon, I am very grateful. 🥰

Goldie

February 11, 2024

Wonderful course. I appreciate the thought provoking viewpoints! The cadence of speech was too fast for me to process at times. Here's hoping Insight Timer is responsive to request to add a speed control similar to my Hoopla library app. That tiniest tweak to 98% rate of speech can make all the difference in really absorbing a concept at the first listen. The summary at the end was fantastic. Thank you for sharing varied perspectives and viewpoints not on trend that need to be heard!

Mary

February 9, 2024

Really good advice for every day

Delaney

February 8, 2024

Excellent course. I love the shift in perception I get when I listen to you and truly appreciate the work you’ve put into your teachings here on Insight Timer. Also love your work with on HE. Thank you for all you do!

Stacy

February 5, 2024

I am grateful to Jon for sharing his thoughts. This course is helping me use new perspectives. Jon is so easy to listen to. His lessons are powerful.

More from Jon Brooks

Trusted by 35 million people. It's free.

Insight Timer

Get the app