I too read numerous self help books and biographical memoirs. Some even helped but none of it stuck. In hindsite now however, after taking therapy that mirrored some of these self-help books, I realize my personal problem was that I devoured the books in one or two days and expected change. I did all the work at once instead of incrementally over time. The next time I pick up a book like that I will take my time. But that is just me, my personal experience, my ideas of why it didn't work for me.

So too I have in the past had an almost combative experience with self-help. I wasn't ready for it and in the wrong headspace. Instead of challenging myself I demanded instant success and change. WHen that didn't happen I realize now I blamed the books as useless instead of looking at myself, my refusal to challenge my core negative beliefs, and refused to do the work.