“As I obsess about my ancient problems, I feel more like I'm sinking in quicksand than lighting a torch. I'm creating neither heat nor light, just the icky, perversely pleasurable squish of self-pity between my toes. My only defense is that I'm not the only one down here in the muck - our whole culture is doting on tales of personal tragedy.”

American author, life coach, speaker, and sociologist

Martha Nibley Beck is an American author, life coach, speaker, and sociologist. She is known for writing and speaking about personal growth, purpose, and practical ways of making life feel more workable. Her work brings together sociology and self-help, which gives her a broad lens on human behavior and change. She is also a frequent speaker, and her writing reflects an interest in how people can understand themselves more clearly and move toward a steadier life.