So what are you gonna do next?
You can’t decide. There are so many choices and you know you’re going to pick the wrong one. That’s the problem, you never do anything right and you don’t know what to do next. So here: take a deep breath, take another, read “How to Be Okay When Nothing is Okay” by Jenny Lawson, and hit “reset.”
As someone who’s always been open about her mental health issues, depression, ADHD and anxiety, Jenny Lawson has purposefully collected bits of advice to help her keep her head and her heart on-track throughout her adult life. That random guidance has gotten her through a lot of days, and she shares it in this book.
First of all, remember that we’re all weird in one way or another. You’re not alone.
Forget people who rain on your parade; if there’s something you enjoy doing and it’s not hurting anyone, just do it, even if it’s “’childish’.” Know that learning to love your flaws is something magical, and humorously admitting them can be truly priceless.
Keep a list of things that make you happy. Add to it, revise it, but keep it close; if you don’t know where to start, look at Lawson’s list for ideas.
Remember that everybody deserves applause, and that includes you.
Make a playlist of the music that makes you want to dance – and then dance. Keep in mind that “Depression lies” and that you are always and forever “worthwhile.” Give yourself permission to take solitary breaks now and then. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, do something that’s easy to accomplish. Teach others to help you by helping yourself. Revive your creativity by trying something new.
Never be afraid to ask for help, even if it’s just having someone listen awhile. Prioritize sleep. Explore using color noises to help you focus or chill.
And know that rules are often optional, so just be you.
We’ve all had them: a whole week’s worth of One of Those Days, where everything turns south and you just want to go to bed for life. You need a reset. That’s when you need “How to Be Okay When Nothing is Okay.”
From comfort and self-care to mood-boosts to confidence generators, author Jenny Lawson offers advice for anyone with any kind of mindset. Doubts are sent packing with this book. Self-flagellation can turn into a pat on the back here. And the theme, over and over, is that you’re not alone and that you can find help — which is underscored, even if you already know it to your core. Lawson hammers it home, along with all the right things to say, plus well-placed profanity, camaraderie, and plenty of her signature humor.
This book is the perfect size to tuck in your desk drawer, your lunchbox, briefcase, or glove box. It’s helpful, funny, and easily browse-able, so if your mental health isn’t so healthy today, find “How to Be Okay When Nothing is Okay.” Look over your TBR pile, and make it next.
“How to Be Okay When Nothing is Okay” by Jenny Lawson
c.2026, Penguin Life $29 288 pages