I am wary of anyone who says they have a foolproof plan to solve a problem. Follow these steps, and you too can have (fill in the blank).
Us Americans are gluttons for the quick and easy fix as evidenced by the growth of the “self-help” industry. It is projected that over the next decade this industry will grow 11.4 percent yearly. Americans spend upward of $8 billion every year on self-help programs and products. Including conferences, training programs, wellness therapies, mission formulators, calendars and yoga lessons to name a few.
However, more and more people are beginning to question the effectiveness of these 
“self-help” strategies. Especially in light of the evidence that many self-help gurus conduct extensive market research to reach the same customers over and over again. Also, there is mounting data related to the negative consequences of these programs. Including poorer job performance and lower morale.
More and more Americans are realizing that the path to transformation isn’t easy, and that 
no two paths are the same. I guess Jesus knew what He was doing when He taught using parables. Making it the hearer’s responsibility to uncover the embedded spiritual truths.
Responsibility— more about that Friday.
“Team arranging the word help” courtesy of David Castillo Dominici/digitalart
“Calculator And Business Graph” courtesy of jannoon028/digitalart
“Curved Road Traffic Sign” courtesy of jannoon028/digitalart “
letsloveothers 
Self improvement is such a great endeavor. It can be truly enriching and rewarding. The inherent belief in some (most?) of us is that progress can (and should) come overnight. That’s never the case. It takes work. It takes time. Hours, weeks, months and years. Time a lot of people aren’t willing to give. Yes, we want quick results. But the only lasting results are those that are developed over time.
Totally agree! There is no such thing as “overnight” success.
I’ve discovered the best way to do “self help” is to admit I can’t do it by myself. The yoke is way too heavy to move alone.
I finally got it through my thick skull that being in control isn’t all it is made out to be. “Giving the Lord control” is the only self-help program I endorse.