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The new year is an opportunity to try to realize previously unfulfilled passions, such as writing. A recent American survey tells us that the favorite genre of aspiring writers is not fiction as one might have thought, but personal development.
Some 47% of Americans think they could use their life experiences to write a feel-good book. It is interesting to note that young people are much more confident in their writing skills than their elders. Thus, 81% of Generation Z representatives surveyed as part of this ThriftBooks study think they are capable, compared to only 48% of millennials. Baby boomers are those who have the most doubts about being able to write a book that provides keys to improving their physical or mental condition (28%).
The attraction of young people to works on personal development can be explained by the fact that this age group is eager for this literary genre. The readers surveyed read their first book on well-being when they were, on average, 14 years old. Members of Generation Z even started earlier since 60% of them became interested in this topic from the age of 10.
The enthusiasm of (very) young readers for personal development can be explained by the fact that a large number of children and adolescents suffer from profound discomfort. Some people then turn to “positive” works to soothe their hearts in these difficult times. This phenomenon has not escaped publishing houses, which are publishing more and more books on the importance of self-confidence or on the benefits of practicing yoga from childhood.
Apart from young people, women also show a real interest in this category of works. They are also more inclined than men to let those around them know that they read manuals on personal development (72% compared to 65%). Three-quarters of the readers surveyed also agree that these works are well-regarded by society as a whole. In comparison, only 65% of their male counterparts share the same opinion.
This demonstrates a change in attitude towards books often criticized for being “easy to read”. Generally speaking, 68% of respondents do not hesitate to tell those around them that they read them. They particularly like manuals that help them better manage their relationships (sentimental, family, friendly, etc.) as well as books on motivation. Themes more relevant than ever at the start of the new year.
*This survey was conducted by OnePoll, on behalf of the ThriftBooks site, with a panel of 2000 Americans. Data was collected on November 6 and 7, 2023.