Level up and access your feminine energy, say these influencers to young women. This is self-delusion, not self-improvement

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bout two years ago, a self-professed “goddess coach” called Jaelyn posted an eight hour-long “sleep affirmation” video which, according to many a satisfied viewer, has worked wonders for them. In a somewhat sultry, meditative voice she repeats mantras and welcomes her listeners to attract “the kind of men and people who will always treat you like a goddess”.

The video, boldly titled Attract Men Who Spend Money, Provide and Love You! is one of many in a genre of content that is booming on YouTube and social media. I call them “guru girlies”, and they are proving a force to be reckoned with. In their rather austere imparting of wisdom, guru girlies have become many young women’s go-to guide for all manner of modern conundrums.

The spectrum of gurus is vast, but their advice is mainly focused on the idea of “levelling up”. From your diet to dressing better to your choice in friends or men, if you want to live your dream life, self-improvement is the prerequisite; the comprehensive physical, financial and spiritual sine qua non that any woman needs to become her best and dream self.