Book Review: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

Author: Mark Manson

Genre: Self - help book

Publisher: HarperOne

Pages: 224

Year of Publication: 13 September 2016

In the world which gives a damn about so many things subtle art of not giving a f*ck is a breath of  fresh air with its totally different thoughts about how the world should work.

Based upon experiences, the book features thoughts contrary to what is preached in today's times. For instance, when the whole world is behind positive affirmation, the author candidly points out that practicing positive affirmation brings negativity in life since it sub consciously makes us realise what we do not have. Many people might not connect with the thought but as the author says, to each its own. But one cannot deny that it changes one's perspective about a lot of things. The straightforward and rational manner, in which the book is written creates a direct connect with the reader. It feels like one is having a conversation with one's best friend who is imparting a lot of "gyan" (read wisdom) which eventually helps us survive.

The core of the book revolves around the fact that one should realise what is actually important for us and to let go off everything else. In order to accept something we need to reject a lot of other things which takes a lot of courage and effort.

According to the author , life is a series of problems and the solution to the problem is creation of another one. So rather than running away from the problem, the onus is upon us to decide which problem we should have. He belittles self help books and is painfully truthful about most things in life.

This book is a one stop reality check of life making one wonder if our priorities are right and are we not aiming for a Utopian world which doesn't exist and which ultimately leads to our desolation.

The very fact that it doesn't give false hopes is extremely motivating. It doesn't propose to do the unthinkable. It teaches one how to tackle or confront reality. This book is not for someone who wants to see that hunky dory glorious life or live in a false hope that someday life will be better. The book explicitly says that life sucks sometimes and you have to accept it. It is never going to be rosy the way we want it; that is a dreamland and those exist only in dreams.

With quotes like:

"You and everyone you know are going to be dead soon"

The desire for more positive experience is a negative experience in itself.

"Who you are is defined by what you are will to struggle for"

"Life is essentially an endless series of problems. The solution of one problem is merely the creation of another."

This book says it all. Not recommended for anyone who wants to live in the dream world. For everyone who is ready to face the challenge and slog it out in the real world, this book is definitely a ray of hope.