SELF HELP… (an introduction)
Restored from the Empower Network archive (2011–2017), lightly edited to meet our current advertising standards. Views are the original author’s.
Self Help defined:
Chamber’s 20Century dictionary defines SELF HELP as ‘working for oneself’. The Self being ‘one’s own person’ and thus for ‘one’s own self interest’. It therefore follows that it’s Primary objective would be Self Improvement. (See video below re: Great Achievers).
*Self-help, or self-improvement, is a self-guided improvement[1]—economically, intellectually, or emotionally—often with a substantial psychological basis. Many different self-help movements exist and each has its own focus, techniques, associated beliefs, proponents and in some cases, leaders. “Self-help culture, particularly Twelve-Step culture, has provided some of our most robust new language: recovery, dysfunctional families, and codependency.”[2]
Self-help often utilizes publicly available information or support groups where people in similar situations join together.[1] From early examples in self-driven legal practice[3] and home-spun advice, the connotations of the phrase have spread and often apply particularly to education, business, psychology and psychotherapy, commonly distributed through the popular genre of self-help books. According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, potential benefits of self-help groups that professionals may not be able to provide include friendship, emotional support, experiential knowledge, identity, meaningful roles, and a sense of belonging.[1]
Groups associated with health conditions may consist of patients and caregivers. As well as featuring long-time members sharing experiences, these health groups can become lobby groups and clearing-houses for educational material. Those who help themselves by learning about health problems can be said to exemplify self-help, while self-help groups can be seen more as peer-to-peer support.
References:
*courtesy Wikipedia.
What Motivates Self Help?
It is a commonly accepted principle that All human behavior are geared towards the elimination of Pain and the labor towards Pleasure. After all, we seek social acceptance as well as an improved standard of living. No one but No one enjoys being an outcast. Unless you are a Saint who for Spiritual reasons prefer solitude more than ‘social recognition’.
SOME MOTIVATING FACTORS COULD BE:
- Achieving a set goal e.g. an Olympic gold medal
- Self Empowerment financially to attend College
- To boost Confidence
- Overcome past Abuse
- Learn a New Trade etc. etc.
The List is endless.
At times it may even be just an excuse for endorsement. I may very well have a Solution to a Problem yet seek help. Why? Because we have been spoiled by the readily available quick fixes that are prevalent in our commercial world to-day. It is easier to implement a solution or advice if it comes from an Authoritative Figure. Not that authenticity is to be shunned. On the contrary it is All Important! Care should be taken though to avoid being sucked in by Charlatans.
Who are the Ones likely to Succeed?
Those who do Not Procrastinate and are Not prone to throw in the towel very easily. Who take decisive action and are focused on their goal. Neither do you find them afraid of their own light. In other words… they push on despite self doubt or the feeling of… ‘will I be able to do this??’ Great Achievers all had their fair share. It is part of our human experience. See below:
I Love the quote: “If you have never failed, you’ve never lived”
Self Help.. Who to Approach
Should you decide to do a Cold search for a solution via Google, do ensure that verifiable testimonies are available. Alternatively word of mouth recommendations are often a good source. Where practical involve close friends, family or trustworthy support. This will help with Objectivity.
Steer clear of Negative individuals especially when it comes to embarrassing ailments that carries a social stigma. Other than that Self Help is a highly commendable exercise and can be very empowering.
Tweet as you please. It’s appreciated 