This book will not reduce your troubles and problems. As you can see, I’m honest with you.
So warns readers the American blogger Mark Manson in his book The Subtle Art of Pofigism. Through the stories of life's troubles, both of her own and that of celebrities, the author proves why the ability to “give a damn” is a necessary skill. In this article, we highlighted the basic ideas of a witty bestseller.
What is this book about?
In the art of indifference, there are subtleties. For example, it does not at all imply indifference to society. Armed with a “wand - in the fig - a messenger" Manson proposes when faced with problems or other people's opinions. Magic only works if you stop wasting your nerves on trifles and focus on really important things.
There are no ready-made recipes. “Do something,” the author tells us. In the face of imminent death and endless turmoil, continue to make choices about what you care about and what you don't, scoring on difficulties and failures.
About attitude to problems
Manson argues that, thanks to a culture of consumption and social networks, an entire generation of people has formed who consider the negative experience something abnormal. However, failure and problems are an inevitable component of life.
For example, muscle pain after exercise leads to health and an increase in strength. Therefore, the author suggests thinking: “What pain would you like? What would you like to fight for? ” Focus on the process, not the result; love the struggle, not the reward.
About Values
To change your view of problems, you need to redefine values. They are the basis of everything that we do. The author highlights good and bad values.
- The former are based on reality, socially constructive, direct and controlled, for example, honesty, innovation, vulnerability, the ability to protect others.
- Bad values are completely opposite, dependent on situations and other people, for example, power through manipulation or violence, wealth for the sake of wealth, the desire to please everyone.
About liability
The difference between a painful and pleasant problem is that you choose the latter yourself and are ready to take responsibility. To interpret the meaning of the event and choose the right response is your responsibility.
Here is the story of the author himself: his girlfriend cheated on him. He was depressed, but took responsibility for his emotions, although it was not easy, he still lived in hatred and resentment. He resumed communication with friends, went in for sports and volunteering. Mark chose other values: attention to life and a desire to build his own world.
About self-perception
“Recognize your own non-uniqueness,” Manson urges readers.
Life is ordinary, and social media feeds often tell us only about bright moments. Cultivate self-doubt, constantly ask yourself the question: “What if I'm wrong?”. After all, growth is a process in which we move from the wrong to the less wrong. The life of the "average" will allow you to do what is really important to you without unnecessary expectations and danger.
Interestingly, one of the chapters describes the experience of being in Russia. He was surprised by the extreme directness of the Russians, who do not smile for no reason and say right away if they did not like something. The falsity of Anglo-American culture, as the author notes, forces one to spend time understanding what is true and what is not. Therefore, we have an advantage in mastering the art of indifference, which you can familiarize yourself with by reading the book itself.
