Lessons of Self-Awareness I learned from The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
In "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck," author Mark Manson presents a paradoxical approach to life: by focusing on what truly matters and choosing our struggles wisely, we can find happiness and fulfillment. While the title may suggest a rejection of caring altogether, Manson argues that it's not about giving no fcks at all but rather about directing our energy and attention to the right values, relationships, and experiences. He advocates for embracing failure and pain as part of the journey toward growth and learning to be humble. This book offers a refreshing perspective on personal development and encourages readers to rethink their priorities to pursue a more meaningful life.
Lesson #1: The Secret to Happiness: Embrasse Problem-Solving
Many people have a common misconception that external things like a well-paying job, an attractive partner, a luxurious car, or a substantial bank balance will bring them happiness. We tend to believe in this great fallacy all the time, chasing things and people that we think will bring us joy.
We aspire for a life free from problems, a life filled with ease and contentment. However, problems are integral to life, and we cannot escape them. We only upgrade or exchange problems as we go on to solve them. For instance, if you solve the issue of not spending enough time with your family, you will create a new problem of finding ways to fill that time.
In reality, happiness comes from solving problems, not avoiding them. You need to have something to solve to be happy. Happiness is not a gift someone sitting in the clouds bestows upon you. It is a form of action and activity you must consistently work for. True happiness is a constant work in progress because problem-solving is a continuous process.
Today's solutions will lay the foundation for tomorrow's problems, and solving problems you enjoy having and solving brings true happiness. Denying your problems or playing the victim will not bring you happiness but only make things worse, building more barriers between you and your happiness.
Lesson #2: Our Perceptions are Imperfect
The process of growth is a continuous and iterative journey. When we learn something new, we don't suddenly become "right," but rather move from being "wrong" to "slightly less wrong." As we gain more knowledge, encounter diverse perspectives, meet new people, and experience life, we are constantly forming new beliefs and coming closer to truth and perfection, without ever reaching it.
Therefore, we must acknowledge that we are always wrong, but our openness to consume better information and our willingness to learn and adapt allows us to approach truth and perfection.
Admitting "I don't know" creates room for learning and discovery. Being wrong is an opportunity for change and growth, not something to fear. In fact, finding out that we are wrong can bring joy because it means that we are about to learn something new.
#1 New York Times Bestseller
Over 10 million copies sold
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck offers a counterintuitive approach to living a fulfilling life. In this book, Mark Manson teaches you to let go of the things holding you back and stop worrying about other people's opinions. You'll learn to live according to your values and find happiness despite your flaws. If you're prepared for genuine change in your life👇
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
Best Wishes,
Annie@Calendarmind
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