The Subtle Art of Not Giving A Fuck, By Mark Manson

For anyone who has spoken to me in the last month would definitely know about this book as I like to sneak it into any conversation I can … sorry (not sorry) for those who didn’t want to hear about it. I felt the need to write about the most important things I took away from the book, to not only encourage everyone to read it, but to also consolidate it in my mind.

Contrary to the title of the book, Manson wants you to ‘give a fuck’ but only about the important things in life, the things that matter.He writes that everyone naturally has to care about something, so make it important and worthwhile to you.

Manson explains your values system and, depending on what you value, can affect how successful or unsuccessful you perceive yourself to be. Choosing the right success metrics for you is vital to your self worth and life.

This book has helped me understand about taking responsibility for your life. While a lot of what happens to you in life, for example mental illness wasn’t your fault, it is still your responsibility to deal with it.

On following your dreams: that having a different dream to your currant career or life isn’t really that unique or special. This new perspective lets you give your dream a go, and helps you know it is not really that weird to want to try something new. It lets you give it a go and see what happens and to know there is nothing wrong with you for giving something new a go.

Manson explains his own law, Manson’s Law of Avoidance. “The more something threatens your identity, the more you will avoid it”. That people will go to any lengths to protect their identity. This has helped me look at my thought patterns and how much I resist change, even when I so badly want to change.

I also learnt about ‘VCR Questions’, which are questions people ask that they pretty much already know the answer to, but somehow can’t work out how to execute and are scared of the consequences. These problems might be easier to solve then you realize.

Finally, it taught me to not take responsibility for others emotions. You can be there for them, but ultimately and the nicest thing you can do for someone you care for is to allow them to take responsibility for their own emotions and deal with them themselves.

So guys, you should go out and read the book and challenge some of the beliefs you have about yourself!

Until next time…

Stay strong and dare to be seen!

Anna 🙂 xx

If you can’t be bothered reading this post… just take a look at a favorite look of mine at the moment, the photos where taken on a recent trip to Albany.

Jumper: Lazy Oaf, Shirt: Zara, Shorts: Country Road

Photography: Sophie Stevens