Member Reviews

On Self-Hatred is a gut-punch of a read that every entrepreneur needs to experience. In scathing yet empathetic prose, lays bare the insidious nature of self-hatred and how it can strangle creativity, motivation, and the ability to effectively communicate one's vision. The insights into the crippling cycle of negative self-talk and harsh self-judgment are difficult to read and such a necessary mirror for any leader to gaze into. By shining a light on this often unspoken struggle, The School of Life provides a path for entrepreneurs to shed the shackles of self-loathing and unleash their full potential by decreasing self hatred.

Was this review helpful?

I'm so glad to read this book. There are many thought-provoking ideas to help us accept and love ourselves. Despite short pages, this book covers many essential topics.

One of my favorite quotes: "We should develop the strength occasionally to tell a partner that we are feeling ignored and used. We should tell a colleague that they have not done their fair share. We might try to explain to a parent that they cannot rely on our goodwill unless they show some understanding of what they have put us through. It will feel deeply uncomfortable when we first try; we may expect that terrible vengeance will be exacted on us for our openness. But we may also discover that those who are truly worthy of our time will be ready to listen to our hurts. We should afford more regularly to exchange self-hatred for lawful and honourable expressions of annoyance."

It's okay to express our thoughts and we should choose wisely to whom we show our vulnerable side.
I also enjoy the dialogue between the inner critic and the sell-accepting reply at the end of the book.

I, too, recommend you leave the shores of self-hatred for the wider, kinder seas of self-acceptance.

Thank you to The School of Life and NetGalley for providing digital ARC for "On Self-Hatred." A short but impactful book that I read this year.

Was this review helpful?

This is my first time reading a title from the School of Life and it is incredibly well written and researched. I feel it gave a really balanced and interesting overview to self-hatred and I am now really keen to read the rest of the titles.

Was this review helpful?

As someone currently in therapy and dealing with varying levels and feeling self self hatred I found this to be a wonderful, helpful and encouraging reminder of many of the best practices my therapist reminds me of. I found it reassuring knowing that these feelings are so part of the human experience that the school of life felt appropriate to publish this work. Would recommend to both those struggling through the journey to self love themselves or have people in their life they would like to understand on a better level.

Was this review helpful?

thank you to netgalley for gifting an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

I loved reading this. It hit home for me in so many different ways whether I could personally relate or not. It was so well written and thoughtful and I honestly felt so understood.

There were only a few parts I couldn’t fully relate to but regardless they were still so interesting and it was eye-opening and definitely strengthens a sense of empathy and understanding for others.

Quite a few parts of this made me tear up and really reflect on why I feel certain ways, and I did actually cry at one point, which I think really demonstrates how well thought out this was. I’d love to read more from The School of Life in future!

Was this review helpful?

Reading this book made me look deep inside myself and my past and see some of the things I did wrong, and remember fondly the things I did right. It also allows you some peace and comfort. Highly recommended!!

Was this review helpful?

Powerful and provocative brief book on an important and timely topic. The insights shared could be life saving and certainly offered an opportunity to reflect on the implication of self-directed criticism and contempt.

Was this review helpful?

The School of Life: On Self-Hatred is a beautiful book that helps guide readers on their journey to self-actualization. It's an uplifting guide for those who struggle with self-image and teaches ways to combat the difficult and paralyzing thought patterns that can surface. Highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

“On Self-Hatred” reveals the subtle poison of self-hatred that permeates our psyches and points us toward principles and pathways of self-liberation. I highly recommend this book!

Was this review helpful?