The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson

Themes: Self-Worth, Reflection, Shifting Your Perspective

Read When: You need help navigating life’s stressors and obstacles in an effective way and/or help prioritizing what actually matters in your life.

Favorite Quotes:

“In the long run, completing a marathon makes us happier than eating a chocolate cake. Raising a child makes us happier than beating a video game. Starting a small business with friends while struggling to make ends meet makes us happier than buying a new computer. These activities are stressful, arduous, and often unpleasant. They also require withstanding problem after problem. Yet they are some of the most meaningful moments and joyous things we’ll ever do. They involve pain, struggle, even anger and despair—yet once they’re accomplished, we look back and get all misty-eyed telling our grandkids about them.” 

“Don't hope for a life without problems,' the panda said. 'There's no such thing. Instead, hope for a life full of good problems.” 

“The fact is, people who base their self-worth on being right about everything prevent themselves from learning from their mistakes. They lack the ability to take on new perspectives and empathize with others. They close themselves off to new and important information.”

“The pain you pursue in the gym results in better all-around health and energy. The failures in business are what lead to a better understanding of what’s necessary to be successful. Being open with your insecurities paradoxically makes you more confident and charismatic around others. The pain of honest confrontation is what generates the greatest trust and respect in your relationships. Suffering through your fears and anxieties is what allows you to build courage and perseverance.” 

Key Takeaways: Manson’s style of writing is bold and no-holds-barred. If you dislike the fluffy, positive, idealistic writing that shows up in many personal development books you’ll probably like his style. He flips a lot of streamline beliefs and ways of thinking on their head - not to completely deny them, but rather to force the reader into self-reflection and perspective shifts.