The Problem with Being a Person - by Talia Pollock (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Many of us spend our lives in the endless pursuit of self-improvement. If we could rid ourselves of anxiety, depression, our inability to turn down a scoop of ice cream-then we will be happy. If we buy those trendy yoga pants and start meditating everyday--then we will be accepted. But the truth is, what we're told is abnormal is actually entirely human. And our attempt to cure ourselves of this humanity is what will eventually drive us all mad. Talia Pollack discovered this the hard way. To an outside observer, everything in her life was going great. But on the inside, she couldn't shake the sense that something was fundamentally wrong. When therapy, medication, and self-help books ultimately failed, she turned to an unlikely resource that helped her see herself and the world clearly for the first time: Existentialist philosophy. Echoing the timeless wisdom of philosophers and the timely research of social scientists, Pollock offers a modern take on finding the courage to create your own meaning and navigate the challenges of a comfortably uncomfortable life"-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

Escape the race to happiness, build a life of value, and resist the pull of self-help

You've heard this story: outwardly, woman was living the dream. Inwardly, woman was drowning in despair. It's what happened next that sets this tale apart.

Many of us go through life believing that something about us is not normal enough. So, we devote ourselves to the endless pursuit of self-improvement. That's what Talia Pollock decided to do. In her quest to feel better, Talia Pollock got seduced by self-help trends that offered fleeting solace but failed to soothe the depths of her inner turmoil. Conventional remedies, like medication and therapy, provided a semblance of relief but didn't ease the angst she felt inside.

It wasn't until she discovered Existentialist philosophy that she discovered is that what we're told is abnormal is actually entirely human, and it's our attempts to cure ourselves of our humanity will eventually drive us mad.

Echoing the timeless wisdom of philosophers and the timely research of social scientists, Pollock offers a modern take on finding the courage to create your own version of satisfaction.

Pollock's sincere retelling of her own experiences urges readers to

• question conventional notions of happiness
• embrace contentment as a lasting source of well-being
• navigate the challenges of a comfortably uncomfortable life

Whether you're grappling with existential questions, seeking to break free from societal expectations, or yearning for a deeper sense of fulfillment, The Problem with Being a Person offers a powerful message for prioritizing self-acceptance over self-improvement.

Review Quotes

"A hilarious look at what it means to radically accept yourself and your place in the world."
--Emily Esfahani Smith, author of The Power of Meaning

"An illuminating and genuinely helpful look at how we can embrace uncertainty and inner chaos to move towards meaning in our lives. In a society filled with confusing prescriptions and contradictions about happiness, Talia Pollock's existential-ish philosophy offers a framework to find the courage and curiosity for self-reflection and direction. For anyone who has ever wondered if they're getting life right, this refreshing book will both comfort and inspire."
--Madeleine Dore, author of I Didn't Do the Thing Today

"Fun, funny, and touching. It's like your new best friend telling you stories about how vibing in "existentialish" ways has made her life better, and can make yours better too. Fabulous read!"
--Skye Cleary, author of How to Live a Good Life

About the Author

Talia Pollock is a writer, speaker, and armchair philosopher. She infuses humor into wellness discussions to navigate life's complexities. Her debut book and podcast, Party in Your Plants, promote light-hearted, healthy living. She's modernizing existentialism to liberate her generation from the self-help industry. Her work has been celebrated on platforms like Good Morning America, The Dr Oz Show, Bustle, and PEOPLE Magazine. Talia lives in Brooklyn with her daughter, husband, and doodle.