Why Montaigne’s Essays Are the Ultimate Self-Help Guide (And Way More Fun)

Self-help books promise transformation, but too often leave us feeling inadequate. Montaigne, the father of the essay, offers something radically different: a self-help guide with no rules, no guilt, and plenty of laughter. His essays are a celebration of imperfection, curiosity, and the sheer messiness of being human.

Be Curious, Not Perfect

Montaigne’s first principle is curiosity. He explores everything—his fears, his failures, even his bowel movements—with childlike wonder. This spirit of inquiry makes life an adventure, not a test. Try asking yourself, “What am I curious about today?” instead of “How can I fix myself?”

Laugh at Your Mistakes

Unlike modern gurus, Montaigne doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. He makes mistakes, forgets things, and changes his mind—often in the same essay. Instead of hiding his flaws, he laughs at them. This playful honesty is both refreshing and liberating.

Make Friends with Yourself

Montaigne believed that self-acceptance is the foundation of happiness. He spent hours alone, reflecting on his quirks and contradictions, and learned to enjoy his own company. The result? A life lived with less anxiety and more joy.

Enjoy the Journey

For Montaigne, living well is not about achieving perfection, but about savoring the journey. He finds meaning in small pleasures: a good meal, a walk in the orchard, a conversation with a friend. His essays teach us to slow down, notice more, and let go of the need to be extraordinary.

If you’re tired of self-help books that make you feel like a failure, give Montaigne a try. His essays are funny, forgiving, and full of life—and they might just help you become a little more human.