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The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

summary ofThe Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ckBook by Mark Manson

13 min
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You’ll learn

  • Why positive thinking isn’t a key to a happier life
  • Let's-all-feel-good mindset flaws
  • How to care less and live a content life
  • Why real wealth is about wisdom
  • How to accept limitations

first KEY POINT

Don’t try to be somebody you’re not

Most self-help books make us fixate on what we lack. They pinpoint the things we see as our failures and shortcomings and emphasize them for us. If you are broke, you look for a way to earn more. If you think you’re not attractive, you use affirmations to believe you are.Society keeps telling us to be more positive all the time. We are constantly getting the same message: to care about everything. Sadly, caring more doesn’t guarantee you to be happy and live a better life.

Living happily isn’t about caring about everything; it’s caring about the things that matter.

As humans, we care too much about things that don’t matter, and this does nothing but make us feel bad about ourselves. The author calls this “The Feedback Loop from Hell.” Simply put, you get stuck with feelings that come out of nowhere and blame yourself for your emotions.The solution to the Feedback Loop from Hell is simple: don’t give a fuck about your negative experiences — anxiety, anger, guilt, fear, etc. Because it’s okay having these feelings. It’s okay to be under the weather sometimes. Beating yourself up for having natural emotions will only make things worse. Maturity is about being able to only care about essential things. This is how you can be content consistently.With this summary, you will learn to be comfortable with being different, calm in the face of adversity, and highly selective with what you care about.

second KEY POINT

Overcoming obstacles makes us happy

Our core values build upon the assumption that we can achieve happiness by following specific steps. This premise is a big problem because happiness isn’t a solvable equation.However, happiness is an activity rather than a gift bestowed upon you. You cannot find it in a self-help book. We are enamored with the concept of happiness as a blessing; once we get it, we’re freed of all pain and suffering forever. But in reality, that’s not attainable.Sadness, dissatisfaction, unease, etc., are part of inherent human nature, and are necessary to create consistent happiness. Disappointment drives change. You cannot be better by being satisfied with every aspect of your life.Even physically, pain has the same function. Imagine how badly it hurts when you stub your toe. You might scream and swear at the table and at whoever thought to put it there. No matter how much you hate the feeling, it is helpful. Your body sends signals to teach you your limitations or which part of the body requires care.The same goes for human psychology. Emotional pain lets you know in which ways to improve your life. We cannot escape pain; in fact, we shouldn’t. Life consists of problems that bring discomfort and hurt.Happiness requires struggle, and it comes from solving problems. Happiness is a constant work in progress.

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first KEY POINT

No one is exceptional in any way

second KEY POINT

Don't build your life around useless causes

third KEY POINT

Become responsible for your life

fourth KEY POINT

The success paradox: failure is the way forward

fifth KEY POINT

Reject things that don't add value to your life

sixth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Mark Manson is an author and a superstar blogger. He was featured in the New York Times, Time Magazine, Buzzfeed, Vice, New York Post, The Guardian, and USA Today and appeared on NBC, Fox News, the BBC, and CNN.

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Frequently asked questions

What is The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life about?

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life rather than striving for constant happiness. It encourages readers to embrace life’s challenges and limitations, promoting a realistic and grounded perspective on achieving personal growth.

What are the key takeaways from The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life?

Key takeaways include the idea that pain is a part of life, the importance of choosing what to care about, and the need to confront your limitations. Manson argues that by accepting responsibility and prioritizing our values, we can cultivate a more fulfilling and honest existence.

Is The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life worth reading?

Yes, The Subtle Art is highly regarded for its candid writing and practical advice on living a meaningful life. Many readers find its straightforward approach refreshing and its insights applicable across various life situations.

How many pages is The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life and when was it published?

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is 224 pages long and was published on September 13, 2016. This concise format makes it an easily digestible read for those looking to reflect on their values and priorities.

Who is the author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life?

The author of this influential book is Mark Manson, a popular blogger and personal development expert. His unique style blends humor with insightful life lessons, making complex concepts accessible and relatable.