The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson (A1 Level)

ULTIMATE READING

Teacher Ignacio Chávez

4/19/20252 min read

woman taking selfie
woman taking selfie

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* is a book by Mark Manson about living a better life by focusing on the things that really matter. Manson says that we all have limited energy and time, so we should care about the important things and let go of the rest. This idea helps us live with more peace and happiness.

He explains that many people spend their time worrying about small problems. But life is short, and we can’t care about everything. We must choose what is important and focus on that. Those moments when we focus on the right things make us stronger and more grateful.

“We all have problems. The question is not whether we have problems, but what kind of problems we want to have.”
This quote reminds us that it’s okay to have problems—what matters is choosing the ones that help us grow.

Not Everything Is Important

Manson says that we often care too much about things that don’t matter. Instead of trying to please everyone, we should take care of those things that really bring value to our lives. This helps us use our time wisely and feel happier.

Take Responsibility for Your Life

We should take responsibility for what happens to us. When we accept these moments and learn from them, we become stronger. That is how we grow and improve.
“You are always choosing what to give a fck about.”*

Embrace the Struggles

The book tells us not to run away from problems. These challenges are important because they help us grow. If we avoid them, we miss the chance to become better.
“The pain you feel today is the strength you will feel tomorrow.”
This means that difficulties are not bad—they are part of learning and growing.

Choose What to Care About

Manson says that we cannot care about everything. We must decide what really matters. Those who care about too many things end up feeling tired and unhappy. But if we choose well, we can find peace.
“To be happy, we must choose what to care about and what not to care about.”

Let Go of Perfection

Finally, Manson explains that perfection is not the goal. We don’t have to be perfect all the time. This lesson reminds us to accept who we are. “The secret to a good life is not giving a fck about more things, it’s giving a fck about fewer things.”

Main Ideas

  1. This book teaches us to focus on what matters.

  2. That idea helps us live a simple and happy life.

  3. These lessons show us how to be responsible and calm.

  4. Those unimportant problems are not worth our energy.

Conclusion
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* shows us that we can live better when we care about the right things. This mindset helps us find peace, accept life’s challenges, and focus on what truly matters.

“Choose what to care about, and let go of the rest.”