Any self-help/motivational books that don't focus on an individualistic perspective?
Just wanted to preface this by saying that I don't know much about self-help lit and do not mean to offend anyone who enjoys it as a genre.
I've been talking to a friend of mine who primarily reads self-help literature (a genre I've never really delved into), and what struck me was the highly materialistic/individualistic focus that a number of these books seem to have (most being focused on becoming an entrepreneur who drives a Lamborghini and retires by 40 living off of their crypto/stocks/real estate investments). The failure of the individual to achieve these goals can apparently be overcome through positive thinking, changing one's mindset, etc, and the focus seems to be largely on material goods and the general definition of "American-style" success. My general feeling is that a large part of self-help as a genre is focused on the failings of the individual rather than societal ills (or, the Jordan Peterson style of motivational thinking), and that got me wondering if anybody had some books that differ from the mold somewhat, possibly talking about improving yourself not only as an individual but also as part of the community, perhaps offering some sort of a leftist perspective that touches upon commodity fetishism, etc.
If anyone had any suggestions, I'd love to take a look at them.
I know this is not exactly what you're asking for but that's kinda of the spiritualism/religion bread and butter. Buddhism might be particularly useful. Like some books from Zen monk Tricht Nhat Han - - Peace at Every Step and The Miracle of Mindfulness for example.
Alternatively, look into stoicism for a more philosophical approach.
This is not really what you are asking for, but I just read it so it's still on my mind... You could pass them How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia, which skewers the concept of self-help books in an amusing way.