Subject
Worry Books
Best books
George Lincoln Walton
Why Worry?
"Why Worry?" by George Lincoln Walton, M.D. is a self-help publication written in the early 20th century. The book addresses the pervasive issue of worry and offers practical advice aimed at helping individuals overcome this harmful tendency. Walton discusses various forms of worry, including hypochondria and obsessive thoughts, and outlines methods for achieving a more tranquil state of mind. The opening of "Why Worry?" establishes the framework for understanding the detrimental effects of excessive worry on mental and physical well-being. Walton begins by emphasizing that worry is a common issue and is often based on misguided thoughts and fears. He introduces key concepts such as normal vs. abnormal worry and cautions readers against trying to directly eliminate worry without understanding its underlying causes. Instead, he suggests that gradual efforts to redirect one's focus and improve one's thought patterns can lead to healthier mental habits and increased effectiveness in daily life. The actionable and down-to-earth principles outlined in this beginning set the stage for practical suggestions throughout the book aimed at fostering a more balanced and peaceful mind.
Horace Fletcher
Menticulture; or, the A-B-C of True Living
"Menticulture; or, the A-B-C of True Living" by Horace Fletcher is a self-help and philosophical guide written in the late 19th century. This book centers around mental well-being and personal growth, advocating for the elimination of negative emotions such as anger and worry to achieve a more fulfilling life. The author draws on historical and philosophical teachings to expound on his ideas, seeking to cultivate a mindset conducive to happiness and personal development. In "Menticulture," Fletcher presents his theory of personal betterment through the 'germ cure,' which posits that harmful emotions are mental parasites rooted in anger and worry, inhibiting growth in both mental and physical health. The book recounts Fletcher's personal experiences and observations, demonstrating how he transformed his life by consciously dispelling these negative emotions. He encourages readers to adopt an attitude of appreciation and gratitude, positing that true freedom and happiness can be achieved through the practice of mental discipline. By organizing communities around the principles of Emancipation, Fletcher envisions a collective shift towards a more harmonious society where individuals support each other in their mental and spiritual growth.
George Wharton James
Quit Your Worrying!
"Quit Your Worrying!" by George Wharton James is a self-help book written in the early 20th century. The author, who appears to have been deeply affected by personal experiences of distress caused by worry, seeks to guide readers toward a mindset free of anxiety and fear. The main topic revolves around the nature of worry, its origins, and detrimental effects on both mental and physical health, while offering practical advice on how to overcome this pervasive issue. The opening portion introduces the author’s personal struggles with worry, detailing how they led to severe mental distress, ultimately teaching him the importance of relinquishing such burdens. James emphasizes that worry is a product of materialism and human anxieties, primarily afflicting Western cultures. He argues that, unlike many cultures that seem to live in more peace and acceptance, the Western mindset is laden with unnecessary stress. In his foreword and first chapter, he encourages readers to recognize the futility of worry, promoting a philosophy that advocates for trust in God's care and the necessity to replace worry with a focus on positive thoughts and actions to achieve serenity in life.
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