MXP-182 Change Genres: Self-Help as Cultural Production

What do Adam Grant, Brene Brown, and Marie Kondo all have in common? They each have written #1 New York Times best-selling self-help books. In this MayX course, we’ll investigate one of our culture’s favorite narratives: the “before and after” (or self-help) story. Why is this genre so popular? What magic (or mayhem?) do they package? What life hacks can you use from their pages right now in your life? In this course, you will:

• Explore “change genres” and become an expert on one change genre of your choice.

• Consider ways the genre may at once support and disrupt sustainable change.

• Interrogate the cultural “work” of change genres.

• Investigate the role of reflection in self-help and coaching.

• Experience and reflect upon two individual life coaching sessions related to your values, your vision for your life, and crafting a fulfilling and purposeful career. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.