Generation WTF

Dr Christine B. Whelan, Templeton Press, $22.95

If you don’t understand the title, you’re definitely not part of this generation, and are not part of its intended readership. For the uninitiated, generation WTF are 18-25 years-old and “WTF” is an exclamation of frustration and anger at the world which young adults find themselves in.

The primary aim of this book it to guide the members of Generation WTF to move beyond frustration and protest to become wise, tenacious and fearless. It’s a self-help book specifically written for and geared towards people in that generation, but it’s not your average self-help book. The advice in Generation WTF comes from the best timeless self-help books, psychological experiments about behaviour change, and re-life experiences of Generation WTFers.

The book gives its WTF readers examples, exercises and real-world guidance on how to navigate school and university, work and personal life and would be particularly helpful to young adults about to finish university and enter the job market. The first section is about self-awareness, reflecting on strengths and weaknesses, and values. The second about setting goals and meeting them, and the third is primarily about getting the finances in order and the life skills needed for a successful life.

While Generation WTF is definitely geared towards the 18-25 year olds, it deals with the challenges we all face: budgeting, prioritising and relationships both personal and professional. For those of you not part of Generation WTF this book will give you a valuable insight into the particular issues faced by this generation.

Karyl Davison