Wesley Junade Faruk.
Image: Supplied
A 38-year-old author from Durban is using his personal life experiences to inspire men to rebuild their faith, strengthen family relationships and confront personal struggles through his new book, ‘The God Guy Playbook’.
Wesley Junade Faruk, who grew up in Chatsworth and now lives in Durban North, says the book draws directly from his personal journey through hardship, faith and self-transformation.
“This book is based on a blueprint from my own actual experiences. It is a guideline to help men become better in any facet of their lives. Wherever they are now, this book is a tool to help push the boundaries and limits physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.”
According to Faruk, the book challenges men to confront their inner struggles while rebuilding their relationship with God and their families. He said the message was not simply about self-improvement, but about becoming responsible men within their communities.
“It is a battle with your inner self. The challenge is to help men become better husbands, fathers, friends, colleagues and men of substance in our communities.”
Faruk’s journey toward writing the book began after what he describes as a personal turning point.
“The rock bottom in my life was when I gave my life to Christ the second time after realising that I had nowhere to go. That became the foundation for handling anything life threw at me.”
The author said the book recounted experiences that shaped him, including the loss of health, loved ones and employment, and how those challenges helped him rebuild his life.
“The book is a summary of my life and experiences. Through those losses and struggles, I recovered to become the man I am today.”
Writing the book was itself a challenge.
'The God Guy Playbook'.
Image: Supplied
Faruk said the process took less than two years, with much of the focused writing beginning in September last year while he was balancing studies and examinations.
“Writing a book about yourself is not easy because you are putting yourself out there. The emotions of my life play a role in this book.”
He hopes the book will also open conversations around men’s mental health, particularly with Men’s Mental Health Month approaching in June.
“Men struggle with many issues such as health, finances, emotions, work and family. Many have not found a safe space to talk about what’s going on.”
Referencing tragic incidents where unresolved personal struggles have had devastating consequences, Faruk stressed the importance of support and open dialogue.
“What if someone had listened or helped? There is help. You are not alone and you can become the man you were intended to be.”
Faruk encourages men to begin their transformation through simple lifestyle changes.
“Just start by taking small steps, but you must start. Wake up early. Get your family involved in your change. I guarantee they will love you.”
He credits reconnecting with God as a defining moment in his life.
“Reconnecting with God was phenomenal. Instead of me steering the ship, I let Him take over. Do not take your life for granted. You are here on this earth for a reason. Wake up, make a difference and become the man you were intended to be.”
Faruk said he was already considering a follow-up.
“For now, we are looking at publishing a sequel in the next couple of years,” he said.
‘The God Guy Playbook’ will be officially launched on March 21 at the Umhlanga Apart Hotel.