The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark Manson (Review by Dian Martha Nurrul Amanah)

We often avoid failure and suffering. Even when caught in between, we overdo it. Being sad without control, reluctant to accept this graciously and even running away. In fact, failure and suffering are something we can never avoid. Forever.

Indeed, even countless failures will be able to lead us to extraordinary victories. Unfortunately today's education teaches us to "never fail", instead of guiding us to respond more wisely to failure. Imagine Pablo Picaso, a world-famous painter, spending 60 years of his life dealing with many failures. Until finally his work was auctioned at an unimaginable price.

"Unfortunately today's education teaches us to 'never fail', instead of guiding us to respond more wisely to failure."

We are also increasingly dim in seeing the concept of happiness. Start measuring our achievements by other people's standards. Outperforming others is considered as a glorious achievement. That's why many people are never satisfied with their condition today. Like Dave Mustaine who always lives in adversity because Megadeth failed to surpass Metallica's fame. Feeling that his life is always lousy and far from successful.

If we are able to recognize ourselves well and determine what value we will achieve, then we don't need to be busy chasing others. We don't need to be confused about many things out of our responsibility. Learn to be a little "ignorant", prioritize life only on the things that are really necessary.

"If we are able to recognize ourselves well and determine what value we will achieve, then we don't need to be busy chasing others."

Starting with a blog, Mark succeeded in providing an intelligent view to addressing life. How every action we take doesn't end up being a regret. How to build trust between individuals. How to stay "lit" even though it's dead.

Until his writing was published, the idea of life he brought did not change. Invite readers to address their own limitations more wisely. So don't be surprised if this book has been adopted into many languages and dozens of times reprinted in many countries. Apart from the “bold” title, this book can inspire many people.

Unfortunately, there are many people (especially young people) who misperceive the meaning of this book. Feel indoctrinate to be indifferent and do not need to do much in life. That's why, it takes maturity to read this book. It took a lot of experience to understand Mark's mindset. So it is hard for me to place the right rate for this book. It provides significant changes for me and many readers, but it is quite risky to read by those who are not mature enough. Hopefully in the future Mark can publish books that are friendly for all ages.