Key Themes:
Self-development, Psychology, Mindset
Summary:
If you hate swearing and are off a sensitive persuasion this is not the book for you! The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson is a deeply inspiring book about values and purpose. There is no soft soaping or group hugs – this is a book about living with our limitations, embracing our problems and living the good life we’ve always yearned for. This is a refreshing antithesis to all traditional self-help books on the market and despite the brutality of the prose leaves you feeling both positive and inspired.
Content Overview:
Manson’s book is about finding what’s important to you in life and letting go of everything else. He encourages limiting exposure to the distractions of social media, television and technology and reducing our concern over the things that have little or no meaning and value to us. This practical book provides a reality check about our problems, fears and expectations. It dissects the truth about our self-belief, faults and uncertainties, without the typical unicorns and fluffy cloud mantras offered by traditional self-help gurus.
He asks us to reconsider our thoughts on being extraordinary, seeking happiness and being empowered. He recognises that the important thing is not to eliminate problems but decide which problems we’d prefer to face. He outlines that the source of true empowerment is not running from problems but embracing our fears, faults and uncertainties and confronting painful truths to find the courage and confidence we seek.
This book goes against the traditional approach of peddling artificial highs and focuses on solving legitimate challenges. Manson adds that greatness is simply an illusion in our minds, a made-up destination that we waste time in pursuing. He states that accepting our lack of greatness is freeing and helps us to live the good life we’ve always yearned for.
Mixed with humour and stories that will make you both laugh and cry, he demonstrates how you can review and adapt your values to focus on what’s important and not waste time and energy on things that aren’t.
Rating: 9.5/10
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a refreshing book that provides the unfiltered truth with practical examples of how you can apply this new thinking to de-clutter your life.
Readability: 9.0/10
Manson has an easy, conversational style that mixes storytelling with home truths, and make you think. There is a lot of swearing, so not suitable for sensitive ears! However, underneath the shock language is an inspiring read.
Does what it says on the tin: 9/10
Yes – a challenging book that will ensure you re-evaluate what is important, your true values and what to just let go of.