Exploring Self-Help Through Personal Stories
SELF-HELP literature can often feel like an endless checklist of life’s missteps. However, some authors manage to connect with readers by sharing personal narratives that resonate on a deeper level. Veteran rapper Big Sean aims to do just that in his latest book, Go Higher: Five Practices For Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace.
“When you share your journey, it creates a vivid picture for others,” Sean explains. “To truly implement change, I believe you have to start from the heart.”
In his book, Sean candidly discusses his experience with therapy amidst a thriving music career, acknowledging a turning point when he realized he was using Adderall as a means to mask his emotional pain. This pivotal moment inspired him to establish a wellness routine that would aid his healing process. We had the opportunity to speak with the Detroit-native about his transformative journey, how it influenced his writing, and his artistic expression both in his music and literature.
Men’s Health: You talk about your first encounter with what felt like a depressive episode in your book. When did you recognize that this was more than just a temporary setback?
Big Sean: I was anxiously waiting to hear back from Ye about a potential record deal, and inside, I felt like something was off—I just knew I wasn’t okay. Hindsight is always clearer; I was a teenager then and faced one of my first significant disappointments. I had invested everything into this dream, so I had to remind myself, “I’ll make it work, even if it’s not how I envisioned.”
I was fortunate to have supportive family. My grandmother was a trailblazing Black captain in World War II, a spiritual woman who could create opportunities from seemingly nothing. My mother embodies that same resilience. They often reminded me, “You can manifest this music career.”
During that difficult time, whether you label it as depression or disappointment, I learned that just because things weren’t going my way, I could still choose happiness. Shifting my mindset led to changes in every aspect of my life. My aim with this book is to offer hope to those in similar situations.
MH: What motivated you to seek help from a therapist?
BS: Everyone reaches a stage in life where they hit a wall, and it can be incredibly painful. Often, this occurs between the ages of 29 and 34, marking a significant shift in one’s life. Perhaps it’s the transition into your 30s that prompts you to reconnect with yourself in a new way. It can be daunting because you might face aspects of yourself you don’t particularly like.
I believe it’s challenging to navigate this alone. We aren’t solitary beings; we belong to a community. Learning from others’ experiences can be invaluable. Sometimes, a bit of guidance can make all the difference. Therapy has been a game-changer for me, and I encourage everyone to give it a shot if they can. Finding the right therapist can take time, much like finding a good barber—it’s a process, but the benefits are worth it. Therapy offers a unique space to share everything without judgment.
I even inspired my dad to seek therapy at 75. He grew up in Monroe, Louisiana, during the Civil Rights Movement and faced immense challenges. Through therapy, he recognized that his childhood trauma might have contributed to his struggles with stuttering. My point is, even if you think you’re fine, therapy can still be beneficial.
MH: Your story includes a candid discussion of your Adderall addiction. What insights did your recovery process reveal about yourself?
BS: My experience taught me that every individual’s journey is unique. The addiction was tearing me apart from within. I know some people genuinely need it due to prescriptions, but I wasn’t one of them. I’m grateful I had the insight to stop using it. Addiction can cloud your judgment; I realized I had a problem the day I walked into my studio and found I had run out. I was furious and felt utterly helpless.
After quitting, it took years to rediscover inspiration and joy. I learned the importance of nurturing my physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. These elements are interconnected. I began exercising, which not only clarified my thoughts but also improved my mood, cognitive function, and self-esteem.
Additionally, journaling became a powerful tool for me to articulate my thoughts and intentions. I believe in a higher power and the significance of communicating with that entity. Combining meditation with journaling provided me clarity and helped set the right tone for each day.
I strive to incorporate these practices into my daily life, adjusting them to fit my schedule. Consistency is essential for me.
In my music, I delve into themes of mental health and self-exploration. Tracks like “Black Void” and “ZTFO” capture different facets of my experiences. “Black Void” symbolizes growth and rediscovery, while “ZTFO” is all about enjoying the process of connecting with oneself. Prioritizing self-care is never a wasted effort; it’s vital to engage in activities such as reading, journaling, and meditating to reconnect with your true self.
Ultimately, it’s about returning to your essence and discovering inner peace. Embracing the journey of self-improvement and self-discovery should be a fulfilling experience. So, take the time to unwind and prioritize your well-being.
