Self-Help? No. Be Nice to Yourself? Yes.
This article in the health section of the New York Times explains a common-sense but hard-to-acquire skill that may be the key to well-being (and even weight loss): self-compassion.
From the piece:
“The research suggests that giving ourselves a break and accepting our imperfections may be the first step toward better health. People who score high on tests of self-compassion have less depression and anxiety, and tend to be happier and more optimistic. …
“This idea does seem at odds with the advice dispensed by many doctors and self-help books, which suggest that willpower and self-discipline are the keys to better health. But Kristin Neff, a pioneer in the field, says self-compassion is not to be confused with self-indulgence or lower standards.”
The entire article is worth a read. After, throw out your self-help books and pat yourself on the back instead. (And hopefully watch the pounds disappear!)