How to Be Fine

Book excerpt: “A hilarious, charming, and totally unique take” on what self-help advice works—and what doesn’t—by the cohosts of the By the Book podcast (Kristen Johnston, Emmy-winning actress and New York Times–bestselling author of Guts). In each episode of their podcast By the Book, Jolenta Greenberg and Kristen Meinzer take a deep dive into a different self-help book, following its specific instructions, rules, and advice to the letter. From diet and productivity to decorating to social interactions, they try it all, record themselves along the way, then share what they’ve learned with their devoted audience. In this funny, revealing book, Jolenta and Kristen synthesize the lessons and insights they’ve learned and tell their stories. How to Be Fine is a thoughtful look at the books and practices that have worked, real talk on those that didn’t, and a list of philosophies they want to see explored in-depth. The topics they cover include: *Getting off your device *Engaging in positive self-talk *Downsizing *Admitting you’re a liar *Meditation *Going outside *Getting in touch with your emotions *Seeing a therapist “[A] grounded, large-hearted work . . . [The authors] strike a perfect balance between sharing their traumas and folding in amusing anecdotes. This will delight fans of self-help books and encourage even the hardest cynics to reconsider the genre.” —Publishers Weekly “Funny and wise.” —Library Journal