When you think of self-help, psychology probably springs to mind—delving deep into your own psyche, identifying your feelings, and perhaps a bit of meditation. But what if the key to real change lies beyond just our individual minds? Authors and sociologists Marika Lindholm and Elizabeth Anne Wood, in their book Between Us: Healing Ourselves and Changing the World Through Sociology, are turning the traditional approach on its head. Through the personal stories of 45 sociologists, they suggest that by looking at the societies we live in—not just our brains—we can understand and tackle our personal struggles more effectively. Below are five sociological tips that promise to reshape how you think about healing and growth.
Tip 1: Recognize It’s Not Just “You”
Ever feel like you’re the only one struggling? Elizabeth explains that many of our personal issues, such as anxiety or depression, are not merely individual flaws. “Our personal troubles are often linked to larger societal problems,” she notes. This realization helps you see your struggles as part of a broader context, reducing personal guilt and opening up avenues for communal healing and action. It encourages a shift from feeling helpless to being proactive about seeking change in both personal and societal realms.
Tip 2: Toss Out Those Limiting Labels
How often have you been told what you can or can’t do and actually believed it? “Throw away those old labels you’ve been carrying around. You’re capable of more than you think,” Elizabeth encourages. Rejecting these labels can be profoundly liberating, allowing you to redefine who you are and what you are capable of achieving. It’s about taking control of your narrative, challenging the stereotypes, and pushing past the boundaries set by others.
Tip 3: Stand Out with Confidence
Being the odd one out is tough—Marika knows this firsthand from her days at a Swedish postal terminal, where she was the only woman on the loading dock. “Feeling different can be draining,” she shares. However, she also learned that standing out doesn’t have to be a disadvantage. Recognizing that these feelings stem from societal expectations rather than personal shortcomings can help you embrace your differences as strengths. This understanding also fosters resilience and encourages you to advocate for inclusivity wherever you go.
Tip 4: Use Your Sociological Imagination
Ever heard of the “sociological imagination”? It’s a powerful tool that helps us see our personal challenges as part of broader societal issues. Elizabeth and Marika emphasize that using this perspective can help us better understand our own lives and engage more effectively in social change. “It’s about realizing that your personal battles echo larger struggles,” says Elizabeth. Armed with this knowledge, you’re not just fighting for personal victories; you’re contributing to a movement that strives for broader societal improvements.
Tip 5: Dream Big—Systemically
If changing the world sounds daunting, consider the approach of Dr. Harry Edwards, a contributor to Between Us and scholar-activist who uses sociology to empower athletes. He inspires with his philosophy: “Dream with your eyes wide open.” Embracing this mindset means recognizing that every personal challenge is an opportunity to challenge systemic barriers. This approach doesn’t just aim for personal achievements; it seeks to lay the groundwork for transformative societal change.
This new twist on self-help is a game-changer. It turns out that the issues we think are ours alone are actually part of a much bigger picture. Realizing you’re not the only one wrestling with these problems? That’s a relief and a revelation. And it’s not just about patching ourselves up—it’s about joining forces to fix the world, too.
