Book Review: Me, but Better by Olga Khazan
Life can feel like a perpetual cycle of striving and dissatisfaction, and I think many of us can relate to that nagging feeling of wanting to be "better" in some way. That’s precisely why I was drawn to Me, but Better by Olga Khazan. As an award-winning journalist, Khazan’s work has always caught my eye, and the premise of experimenting with her personality for an entire year was both intriguing and relatable. Let’s be honest: who hasn’t thought about making a significant change, yet felt hesitant to dive in?
In Me, but Better, Khazan confronts her own neurotic tendencies head-on. Despite a loving relationship and a fulfilling career, she finds herself spiraling into an existential crisis, feeling that her overachieving nature has morphed into something brittle. So, can a person truly change their personality? With a mix of skepticism and curiosity, Khazan decides to find out, embarking on a year-long adventure filled with activities like meditation, improv, and sailing desperate to act happier.
One of the notable strengths of the book lies in Khazan’s charming writing style. She combines sharp wit with a candid approach, making her reflections both humorous and deeply insightful. Her narrative flows easily, with relatable anecdotes that often had me nodding in agreement (and occasionally laughing out loud). For instance, she describes fumbling through new experiences with a frankness that is both refreshing and encouraging. It felt as if I were chatting with a close friend who happened to have an impressively well-researched take on personality psychology.
Quotes from Khazan resonate throughout, but one that particularly stood out was her idea that “changing your behavior can change your mind.” This seamlessly ties into the book’s central theme—that lasting change is about aligning actions with the person you aspire to be. It’s a thought-provoking concept that I found to be both empowering and challenging, pushing me to reflect on my personal goals.
As I rounded off the last chapters, I appreciated how Khazan emphasizes the discomfort that often accompanies growth. Change isn’t easy, and she doesn’t shy away from the messiness of the process. Readers are left with actionable steps to pursue their transformations, making this more than just a memoir. It’s a guide of sorts, even if it veers into the deeply personal.
So, who would enjoy Me, but Better? If you’re curious about self-improvement, personal psychology, or simply love a good laugh while diving into thought-provoking material, this book is for you. It’s a delightful blend of humor and introspection that encourages us to embrace change, no matter how uncomfortable it might be.
In a world that often feels stagnant, Khazan’s story serves as a reminder that we have the power to shift our perspectives. In my case, Me, but Better inspired me to lean into the uncomfortable and explore what I might want to change—or simply embrace—about myself. Thanks to Olga Khazan for leading the way on this enlightening journey!
You can find Me, but Better here >>