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Real Help: An Honest Guide to Self-Improvement
Do you ever feel like self-help gurus are...lying to you?
You want a better life. You know it’s possible, but the promises you see most self-help books make just seem too good to be true, right?
“Work 4 hours a week and make millions?”
“Quit your job in six months!”
“Follow these ten steps to become rich, famous, and everlastingly happy!
Is there a better alternative? Is there a way to learn how to live a better life without all the extra hype, fake-promises, and B.S.?
Real Help: An Honest Guide to Self-Improvement details the in-depth self-improvement knowledge and wisdom from Ayodeji Awosika: a self-taught 3-time author, TEDx speaker, and top writer on Medium with over 50,000 followers who helps millions of readers per year with wisdom and insights to change their life.
This book won’t guarantee any of the following:
You’ll make millions of dollars
You’ll build a life-changing business that helps you quit your job overnight
You’ll find perfect, peace, happiness, and contentment
It will, however, teach you everything you need to know to help you:
Discover your life purpose (without needing an “exact match”)
Develop the mental toughness you need to thrive in an unfair world
Start your first passion project or side business (without needing to be an expert)
Dramatically increase your odds of living a successful life (even though this can’t be guaranteed)
Build life-changing habits and execute them on auto-pilot (even if you’ve tried and failed before)
This is a book that tells you what you need to know, not what you want to hear. This is a book that tells you how the world actually works, not how you think it should work.
Aren’t you tired of being told you can “succeed no matter what!”? It’s almost insulting. You live in the real world. If you want to succeed in the real world, you have to understand how to be optimistic and realistic at the same time.
With Real Help, you’ll get a no-holds-barred field guide to improving your life with the circumstances you’ve been given. It will help you build a tailor-made path to a successful life based on your definition of the word.
You want a better life. You know it’s possible, but the promises you see most self-help books make just seem too good to be true, right?
“Work 4 hours a week and make millions?”
“Quit your job in six months!”
“Follow these ten steps to become rich, famous, and everlastingly happy!
Is there a better alternative? Is there a way to learn how to live a better life without all the extra hype, fake-promises, and B.S.?
Real Help: An Honest Guide to Self-Improvement details the in-depth self-improvement knowledge and wisdom from Ayodeji Awosika: a self-taught 3-time author, TEDx speaker, and top writer on Medium with over 50,000 followers who helps millions of readers per year with wisdom and insights to change their life.
This book won’t guarantee any of the following:
You’ll make millions of dollars
You’ll build a life-changing business that helps you quit your job overnight
You’ll find perfect, peace, happiness, and contentment
It will, however, teach you everything you need to know to help you:
Discover your life purpose (without needing an “exact match”)
Develop the mental toughness you need to thrive in an unfair world
Start your first passion project or side business (without needing to be an expert)
Dramatically increase your odds of living a successful life (even though this can’t be guaranteed)
Build life-changing habits and execute them on auto-pilot (even if you’ve tried and failed before)
This is a book that tells you what you need to know, not what you want to hear. This is a book that tells you how the world actually works, not how you think it should work.
Aren’t you tired of being told you can “succeed no matter what!”? It’s almost insulting. You live in the real world. If you want to succeed in the real world, you have to understand how to be optimistic and realistic at the same time.
With Real Help, you’ll get a no-holds-barred field guide to improving your life with the circumstances you’ve been given. It will help you build a tailor-made path to a successful life based on your definition of the word.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2020
207 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 4, 2021
There was self-improvement before the internet, but now, it's harder to find books that provide cold, hard but necessary truth.
I finished this book in two days and I'm looking forward to reading it again.
Most of the books I read are by people I don't really know and relate to 100%. This was a different experience as I have watched Ayo use the same principles he expands on to grow his career in writing and recently on YouTube.
It's this real time observation of a life doused on work and practicality that makes this book a true treasure for anyone who really wants to take action and not simply feel inspired.
Reading this is a good way to make sure the next decade gets claimed for success — however you define it to be.
I finished this book in two days and I'm looking forward to reading it again.
Most of the books I read are by people I don't really know and relate to 100%. This was a different experience as I have watched Ayo use the same principles he expands on to grow his career in writing and recently on YouTube.
It's this real time observation of a life doused on work and practicality that makes this book a true treasure for anyone who really wants to take action and not simply feel inspired.
Reading this is a good way to make sure the next decade gets claimed for success — however you define it to be.
August 30, 2020
"Taking responsibility for yourself is painful because when you have no scapegoat, you feel the weight of your own inaction."
I am a fan of Ayo's writing on Medium, so you couldn't exactly call me objective. Just to preface this :) But I do believe this might be THE self-development book for people who don't tend to read the genre. Because it presents a way more straightforward, realistic, and practical approach to things.
The author will repeat the fact multiple (I wanna say way too many) times and I could've honestly done without the constant comparisons to "typical self-help literature". But I get he's trying to drive the point home. I still think the content can do that implicitly. And it does. So that's why I feel like those explanations were a bit redundant.
But I can easily forgive those for the many truths I found in this book. The many practical tips anyone can take to heart and realize their potential. For the mindset shift that it potentially provides.
To me, this book was a wake-up call. And I believe a few years from now when someone asks me about books that had the biggest impact on my life, I will be mentioning this one right along with Seth Godin, Mark Manson, Tim Ferriss, and the others. Hell, I've already been recommending it to anyone who asks.
So, if you feel like you're drifting... like you're not getting from life what you expected to... you can rest assured, there are steps to be taken for you to be successful at whatever you want. And if you're looking for a down-to-earth, no-bullshit approach, let Ayodeji be your Gandalf on that journey. And most importantly, don't end there. Make notes, read it again, take practical steps. And be happy :)
PS: "Your Friends and Family Kind of Suck (I'm Sorry)" will be my favorite headline for a long time.
I am a fan of Ayo's writing on Medium, so you couldn't exactly call me objective. Just to preface this :) But I do believe this might be THE self-development book for people who don't tend to read the genre. Because it presents a way more straightforward, realistic, and practical approach to things.
The author will repeat the fact multiple (I wanna say way too many) times and I could've honestly done without the constant comparisons to "typical self-help literature". But I get he's trying to drive the point home. I still think the content can do that implicitly. And it does. So that's why I feel like those explanations were a bit redundant.
But I can easily forgive those for the many truths I found in this book. The many practical tips anyone can take to heart and realize their potential. For the mindset shift that it potentially provides.
To me, this book was a wake-up call. And I believe a few years from now when someone asks me about books that had the biggest impact on my life, I will be mentioning this one right along with Seth Godin, Mark Manson, Tim Ferriss, and the others. Hell, I've already been recommending it to anyone who asks.
So, if you feel like you're drifting... like you're not getting from life what you expected to... you can rest assured, there are steps to be taken for you to be successful at whatever you want. And if you're looking for a down-to-earth, no-bullshit approach, let Ayodeji be your Gandalf on that journey. And most importantly, don't end there. Make notes, read it again, take practical steps. And be happy :)
PS: "Your Friends and Family Kind of Suck (I'm Sorry)" will be my favorite headline for a long time.
February 10, 2020
Confirming and Cementing My Thinking
I like what Ayo writes on Medium.com, so I took his challenge to buy his book and work with him. I showed up on day one of the course and the first thing he said was, "Read the Book Cover to Cover." Sheezz. I just finished my first read and he clearly articulated what I'd hoped was true about my life...that conformity and sucking for acceptance (my rephrase) were draining me and that the unconventional things I've been doing recently to recover from loss are exactly the things I need to be doing right now. Ayo promises upfront to write unvarnished truth. He finishes by saying "go do the work. I want you to not need me." (Again, my interpolation). Mission accomplished, Ayo. Thank you. Am going to work now.
I like what Ayo writes on Medium.com, so I took his challenge to buy his book and work with him. I showed up on day one of the course and the first thing he said was, "Read the Book Cover to Cover." Sheezz. I just finished my first read and he clearly articulated what I'd hoped was true about my life...that conformity and sucking for acceptance (my rephrase) were draining me and that the unconventional things I've been doing recently to recover from loss are exactly the things I need to be doing right now. Ayo promises upfront to write unvarnished truth. He finishes by saying "go do the work. I want you to not need me." (Again, my interpolation). Mission accomplished, Ayo. Thank you. Am going to work now.
June 30, 2022
An honest talk, a little bit too long for me, but it was an useful book for changing perspective.
June 29, 2022
First half of the book is fine, but the rest feels like reading some boring "get rich tutorial" blog posts, expanded on purpose to keep you on the website longer. The last 130 pages of the book could very well be <40~.
Not only that, but it had the same advice seen everywhere for years, like start drop shipping.
Not gonna lie, I was a bit disappointed by that.
Not only that, but it had the same advice seen everywhere for years, like start drop shipping.
Not gonna lie, I was a bit disappointed by that.
June 11, 2023
I thought this book was filled with interesting insights and I felt very motivated throughout.
I especially like the curated quotes from other books - I liked them so much that I made a list of all the books he quotes and I'm reading them next.
Ayo's writing is page turning - his conversational tone makes it really easy to digest. I usually read slowly but I finished this one in two days. It was pretty short but just very easy to read. I believe this book will be of real value to people who don't like to read boring books.
I agree with some of the other reviews, there is a large focus on online business - I am the target market so I really enjoyed those sections, but I could see how that'd turn you off. Maybe, as criticism it should be advertised on the cover/subheading somehow? But it takes away no stars for me.
I'd recommend this one. Feels like your older brother is giving you some rock-solid advice.
I especially like the curated quotes from other books - I liked them so much that I made a list of all the books he quotes and I'm reading them next.
Ayo's writing is page turning - his conversational tone makes it really easy to digest. I usually read slowly but I finished this one in two days. It was pretty short but just very easy to read. I believe this book will be of real value to people who don't like to read boring books.
I agree with some of the other reviews, there is a large focus on online business - I am the target market so I really enjoyed those sections, but I could see how that'd turn you off. Maybe, as criticism it should be advertised on the cover/subheading somehow? But it takes away no stars for me.
I'd recommend this one. Feels like your older brother is giving you some rock-solid advice.
July 28, 2020
Well-written and useful
This book is more of a genuine take on the path of self improvement than many others in the genre, so he has titled the book correctly. There are a couple of times where he repeats the same thing that he just wrote in the previous chapter, but overall this is good realistic advice for anyone who likes to think about ways to improve one’s approach to things. He’s a good writer. I signed up for his Monday email, and followed him on Amazon because I am interested to see how his thoughts will evolve over time. If you get one really good idea from a book like this it is well worth the cost of the book, and I got several good ideas from this book.
This book is more of a genuine take on the path of self improvement than many others in the genre, so he has titled the book correctly. There are a couple of times where he repeats the same thing that he just wrote in the previous chapter, but overall this is good realistic advice for anyone who likes to think about ways to improve one’s approach to things. He’s a good writer. I signed up for his Monday email, and followed him on Amazon because I am interested to see how his thoughts will evolve over time. If you get one really good idea from a book like this it is well worth the cost of the book, and I got several good ideas from this book.
May 19, 2023
Started well but goes downhill fast.
The first section had a good message about how you and only you can control your fate, life is unfair and as soon as you accept that, you’ll be happier, and that aiming to be the best in the world in your field is unlikely and will ultimately leave you unhappy when things don’t work out. There’s nothing wrong with just being as proficient as possible at what you do.
The 2nd & 3rd sections are where the book fell apart. It felt like I’d fallen into a seminar for online side hustles. There’s far too much focus on being building a side hustle for financial freedom Which becomes a bit of a stuck record on drop shipping and writing blogs for money
The first section had a good message about how you and only you can control your fate, life is unfair and as soon as you accept that, you’ll be happier, and that aiming to be the best in the world in your field is unlikely and will ultimately leave you unhappy when things don’t work out. There’s nothing wrong with just being as proficient as possible at what you do.
The 2nd & 3rd sections are where the book fell apart. It felt like I’d fallen into a seminar for online side hustles. There’s far too much focus on being building a side hustle for financial freedom Which becomes a bit of a stuck record on drop shipping and writing blogs for money
January 30, 2021
I like his medium articles a lot. I wasn't really the target audience for this book, but I got several real insights none-the-less. He uses the voice of the clear eyed older brother or father to try to break people out of the expectation that someone will write the book that rescues them. He also encourages readers to be the best they realistically can be and not get caught up in the chase for superpowers. He argues you should find your best lane and stay in it to make an impact.
February 3, 2020
Amazing
Ayo the author writes for the budding author, entreprenuer, looking for wholesome no-fluff advice. Travel with Ayo on his journey from a budding something to some tangible strengths to some concrete actions to consistent concrete actions to Ayo the author has arrived. You won't be disappointed. Kudos Ayo the author, very brave and generous of you :)
Ayo the author writes for the budding author, entreprenuer, looking for wholesome no-fluff advice. Travel with Ayo on his journey from a budding something to some tangible strengths to some concrete actions to consistent concrete actions to Ayo the author has arrived. You won't be disappointed. Kudos Ayo the author, very brave and generous of you :)
February 4, 2020
The most honest self-improvement book I have read
Ayo pulls no punches and that's just what I needed. This book is raw, honest, and informative. The strategies in it are tangible and well laid out to be followed and tracked. This book gave me not only motivation, but actionable steps to change my life.
Ayo pulls no punches and that's just what I needed. This book is raw, honest, and informative. The strategies in it are tangible and well laid out to be followed and tracked. This book gave me not only motivation, but actionable steps to change my life.
Read
August 31, 2021Real help for real
Ayo's earnest approach to real help is solid, and easily digestible. He offers more than pie in the sky notions, but sincere, useful ways and means to choose change to better your life. This should be a must read for you if you're striving to control your life's direction.
Ayo's earnest approach to real help is solid, and easily digestible. He offers more than pie in the sky notions, but sincere, useful ways and means to choose change to better your life. This should be a must read for you if you're striving to control your life's direction.
January 27, 2020
No nonsense
When Ayodeji says he offers practical no nonsense guide to getting you off your ass, he means it. No fluffy, airy aspirations, just a lot of home truths and common sense....
When Ayodeji says he offers practical no nonsense guide to getting you off your ass, he means it. No fluffy, airy aspirations, just a lot of home truths and common sense....
February 2, 2020
The last self help book you will need to read.
“You want the type of confidence and pride that comes from being proud of the person you see in the mirror, regardless of what others think.”
— Real Help: An Honest Guide to Self-Improvement by Ayodeji Awosika
http://a.co/b40h6WT
“You want the type of confidence and pride that comes from being proud of the person you see in the mirror, regardless of what others think.”
— Real Help: An Honest Guide to Self-Improvement by Ayodeji Awosika
http://a.co/b40h6WT
May 4, 2020
Definitely worth the read, but only if you're willing to change.
I've read many self-help and inspirational books but never one so honest and forthright. I recommend this book to anyone who truly wants to make changes in their personal and professional lives. Good read.
I've read many self-help and inspirational books but never one so honest and forthright. I recommend this book to anyone who truly wants to make changes in their personal and professional lives. Good read.
November 8, 2020
The author has literally provided an honest guide for self-improvement, with its major focus on understanding how the world works and what one can do about it. would recommend a read for some good ideas and inspiration !
May 26, 2022
running too fast
I didn’t know I was so busy I didn’t even know when to breath I just assumed my body would take care of me when I realized it wasn’t anymore. I am more mindful of who I am and what I need to do. Thanks
I didn’t know I was so busy I didn’t even know when to breath I just assumed my body would take care of me when I realized it wasn’t anymore. I am more mindful of who I am and what I need to do. Thanks
February 15, 2020
I loved the Ayo’s honest, straightforward and thoughtful approach to this subject. It’s a practical wake up call and not just another feel good, self help book.
March 17, 2020
To be honest, the only book from self development genre you need to read. Author doesn’t sugarcoat the content, there aren’t any motivational cliches and empty stories. The book is full of critical thoughts about ourselves and our way of thinking, also there are a lot practical advices, which could make real difference in our lives.
May 26, 2020
After Awosika tells you the truth about how the world works, you will rethink your definition of success and your approach for achieving it. Put this at the top of your self-help reading list.
Read
September 9, 2020I'm the absolute wrong audience for anything the author tried to accomplish. There was nothing in it that I liked, but for someone else it might do wonders.
September 27, 2020
it feels really down to earth and it's a nice read.
March 16, 2021
Great advice! Very real and down to earth, useful advice.
May 5, 2024
I found it to be lengthy but easy to read and understand, providing a refreshing clarity. It reminded me of many things I had missed for a long time.
August 14, 2024
Started but didn't finish. I did not find this book as beneficial as I would have liked to. It just wasn't written in a style that appealed to me.
September 22, 2022
This book is a perfect start for anybody new to self(real)-help. You won't need another self help book after this one. However, his advice for starting an online business should be taken with a grain of salt. As I said, this book is a good primer for your mind. So, after finishing this book, you should focus on specific information and execution.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews