The self is a starting point for philosophy and is the study of how we understand our existence and how we know what is real, good, and true. Philosophy helps you identify what you care about. With this direction, the individual’s self-efficacy increases.

The world of self-help literature has experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent decades. People have sought guidance, motivation, and techniques to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. While modern self-help authors have made significant contributions to this genre, it is essential to recognize that the roots of self-help and personal development extend far back into antiquity. In this chapter, we will embark on a journey to discover the hidden wisdom of the ancients—philosophers who can be considered early self-help authors.

When we think of philosophers, we often conjure images of scholars lost in thought, debating abstract ideas in ivory towers. However, beneath the layers of philosophical discourse lie practical, actionable insights that can potentially transform our lives. Ancient philosophers, who lived in times vastly different from ours, grappled with questions about human existence, ethics, and the pursuit of happiness. In doing so, they inadvertently became the earliest self-help authors, offering guidance on how to navigate the complexities of life