The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

by Mark Manson
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Self-Help and Personal Development
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Hardback • £18.99
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Technical
  • ID: 270
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780062457738
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2016-09-13
  • Formats: 36
  • Reviews: 4

In this refreshingly blunt self-help book, Mark Manson challenges the modern obsession with positivity and happiness. He argues that true growth comes from embracing our flaws and limitations, and focusing on what we genuinely care about. The book is filled with raw, honest truths and entertaining stories, making it a refreshing and practical guide to a more grounded life. Manson's approach is backed by research and delivered with profane humor, making complex ideas accessible. He encourages readers to confront their fears and uncertainties, and to prioritize experiences over material wealth. This book is a wake-up call for those seeking a more authentic and contented life.

Reviews
books4people.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-24
amazing 4.50

The reviewer found 'My Life on the Run' by Bart Yasso to be an amazing book that is not just about training but about the life journey of a running icon. They appreciated how relatable Bart is to all runners, regardless of their skill level, and how his stories motivate and inspire.

The reviewer was thoroughly impressed with 'My Life on the Run' by Bart Yasso, describing it as an amazing book that goes beyond typical training guides. Instead, it delves into the life journey of Bart Yasso, a well-known figure in the running world. What stood out to the reviewer was how relatable Bart is to all runners, not just elites. The book includes stories that are engaging and motivational, making it a great read for anyone who has ever run. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the personal anecdotes and the way Bart's experiences can inspire readers to achieve their own goals. The only disappointment was not having read the book sooner, as it deepened the reviewer's appreciation for Bart Yasso. The book also includes training plans, which add practical value for runners of all levels.

Quick quotes

    Most of the running books I have read to date are training related. Books to get me to my next race. However this is not that kind of book.

    I am not an elite athlete. I have made peace with the fact that I will most likely never BQ or even come close in my lifetime.

    That is why I think this book can be so universally appreciated. Bart tells stories that motivate you to go out and achieve your own goals.

books4people.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-24
inspiring 4.50

The reviewer found 'Running Outside the Comfort Zone' to be an entertaining and hilarious read, despite some problematic comments about food and weight. They were inspired to revisit their in-person half marathon dreams after reading about the author's unique running experiences.

The reviewer initially avoided 'Running Outside the Comfort Zone' due to a running slump but found the book inspiring once they started reading. They appreciated the author's humor, honesty, and detailed descriptions of her running experiences, which included unique and challenging races. The book's focus on the emotional and spiritual aspects of running resonated with the reviewer, who found it relatable and inspiring. However, they noted that some jokes about food and weight could be problematic for individuals with disordered eating or body image issues. Overall, the reviewer enjoyed the book and recommended it to runners and those who enjoy a challenge, but not to their fiancé for fear of dangerous ideas.

Quick quotes

    I instantly liked her and wanted to hear more about her experiences, always a good start to a collection of personal essays.

    Lacke takes on a number of fascinating experiences in the book, and you can definitely feel that she is a journalist with how detailed her descriptions are, and how often she engages with other people at the starting line.

    I recommend this book to runners, would-be runners, and people who enjoy a (potentially dangerous) challenge.

thebookbundle.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
insightful 4.00

The book offers a refreshing perspective on life's challenges, encouraging readers to focus on what truly matters and let go of unnecessary worries. It's a practical guide to finding happiness by embracing discomfort and prioritizing values over societal expectations.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck presents a counterintuitive approach to happiness, arguing that the key to a fulfilling life is to care less about trivial matters. The author, Mark Manson, challenges conventional self-help advice, suggesting that embracing discomfort and focusing on meaningful values can lead to a more satisfying existence. They appreciate the book's blunt and honest tone, which makes it an engaging read. However, some might find the language and approach too abrasive. Overall, it's a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to reassess their priorities and live a more authentic life. The practical advice and real-life examples make it a valuable guide for anyone seeking to improve their well-being. The book's main strength lies in its ability to simplify complex ideas and present them in an accessible manner.

Quick quotes

    The book's central premise is that "not giving a f*ck" about the right things is the key to happiness.

    Manson argues that "the desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience.

    The key to a good life is not giving a f*ck about more; it is giving a f*ck about less, but giving a f*ck deeply.

books4people.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-24
positive 4.00

The reviewer appreciates the book's honest and straightforward approach to self-help, finding it refreshing and well-articulated. They agree with its main points about prioritizing emotional energy and accepting limitations, though they note some contradictions and offensive humor.

The reviewer is already someone who doesn't give many fucks, so they were drawn to this book by its title and bright orange cover. They found the book's anti-participation trophy message resonating with their own views. The reviewer thought the book made some solid points about prioritizing emotional energy and accepting limitations, which they found well-articulated and sometimes humorous. However, they noted that the book could be a bit contradictory and offensive at times, especially in its discussions about women. Overall, they found the book to have something to offer, even if it wasn't life-changing.

Quick quotes

    If you follow my reviews/blog at all, you probably already know that I am already a zero fucks given kind of gal when it comes to, well, bullshit.

    So it should come as no surprise that I, like many, was drawn to this book, 1) Because it has the word "fuck" in the title. Duh. And, 2) Because it's bright fucking orange.

    I definitely do think this book has something to offer.

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