Book Review

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck  by Mark Manson is not your usual self-help book. Instead of telling readers to dream big, stay positive, or chase perfection. Mark Manson encourages us to accept our limitations, face life’s challenges, and stop caring about every little thing. In his bold, honest, and often funny style, he teaches that true happiness comes not from avoiding problems, but from choosing which problems are worth our time and energy.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck explains that our time, energy, and attention are limited, so we must choose wisely what to care about. Avoiding difficulties won’t make us happy; solving meaningful ones will. Real growth happens when we face struggles and learn from them. Happiness, he says, is not something we find by chasing it—it’s a result of overcoming challenges and living with purpose.

The book also emphasizes the importance of taking full responsibility for our lives. Even when things are beyond our control, accepting responsibility gives us strength and freedom. Blaming others only makes us feel powerless. Responsibility, as Manson puts it, doesn’t mean fault—it means choosing how to respond.

Another key lesson from the book is about staying open-minded. Manson warns against being too certain of our beliefs. Growth requires humility, curiosity, and the willingness to say, “I might be wrong.” This mindset, which I also believe in, helps us gain wisdom and move forward in life.

In the final chapter, book talks about mortality. It reminds us that we are all going to die one day—and that’s exactly why we should care about things that truly matter. Accepting the shortness of life helps us focus on meaningful goals and stop wasting time on things that don’t count. Though difficult, this acceptance can lead to a calmer, more fulfilling life.

Throughout the book, Manson blends philosophy (especially Stoicism and existentialism), psychology, and personal experiences to explain his ideas. He argues that constantly chasing happiness can make life more stressful, and that maturity comes from realizing what’s truly important and letting go of the rest.