Self-help literature gained popularity in the 1960s. As a genre, it aims to empower individuals to break free from self-imposed limitations, overcome adversity, and reach their fullest potential. Though self-help media is still prevalent in contemporary society, self-help critics express doubts about the efficacy of the genre on the basis that it is either “fraudulent” or overly simplified or not tailored to the reader (Bergsma, Ad. “Do Self-Help Books Help?” Journal of Happiness Studies 9, 2007, pp. 341-360). Nevertheless, in the early 2000s, businesses and organizations increasingly focused on improving workplace communication and collaboration through self-help media. This is the context in which Crucial Conversations became popular, as the book offered practical strategies for addressing conflicts and improving decision-making within corporate environments. Crucial Conversations is a product of research conducted by the authors and draws on real-world experiences and case studies.

As shown by the book’s measured popularity, the book’s emphasis on the impact of effective communication on various aspects of life, including health, relationships, and career success, resonated with a broader audience seeking personal growth and self-improvement.