Lorena Gascón's Critique of Self-Help Clichés in Contemporary Culture

Lorena Gascón, known as "la psicóloga japuta," published a decalogue on Instagram identifying ten self-help phrases she argues are unhelpful. Her list includes common mantras like "Si quieres, puedes" (If you want, you can) and "Sal de tu zona de confort" (Get out of your comfort zone). Gascón critiques these phrases as unrealistic demands in a culture that pressures individuals toward constant happiness and productivity. The article, illustrated by Sandra del Río, reflects on how self-help and coaching have become new quasi-religions under capitalism. It notes the exhaustion of striving for illusory success defined by social media expectations. The author acknowledges occasionally dispensing similar advice while recognizing its limitations. Gascón's Instagram post prompted this analysis of problematic self-help rhetoric. The piece concludes with a stark survival message rather than optimistic platitudes.