The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

Welcome to The Messy Podcast! Your essential guide to navigating life's beautiful chaos. In this special podcast series, we dive deep into the profound lessons from the book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. Are you constantly stressed about what others think? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to please everyone, or burdened by endless expectations? This groundbreaking book challenges conventional self-help wisdom, urging us to embrace our limitations, accept life's inevitable struggles, and focus our energy on what truly matters. Important Notice: The Book and Our Podcast This podcast series analyzes The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck for educational purposes and under the scope of fair use. All book copyrights belong to their respective owners, and no infringement is intended. If you're interested in rethinking your values and finding true contentment, we highly encourage you to purchase the original book here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1. We'll demystify the art of intentional living, transforming anxieties and external pressures into empowering strategies for a more meaningful life. Discover how to: Identify what truly matters to you Embrace discomfort and uncertainty Accept your flaws and limitations Prioritize your values over external validation Learn to focus your energy wisely and reclaim your mental freedom. We'll explore unconventional wisdom and practical approaches to help you stop caring about trivialities, overcome the need for constant positivity, and direct your efforts toward impactful pursuits. Beyond simple indifference, we'll delve into the profound concept of choosing your struggles. Understanding that life involves inherent problems is the ultimate catalyst for genuine happiness and resilience. By focusing on the problems you're willing to endure, you'll see how embracing reality can lead to unexpected peace and profound personal growth. Through relatable stories and tangible examples, we'll show you how this can radically transform your perspective on life and your path to lasting fulfillment. This podcast is ideal for anyone looking to: Manage stress and anxiety Overcome people-pleasing tendencies Build emotional resilience Achieve authentic contentment Whether you're an individual seeking personal liberation, someone feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations, or simply looking for a refreshingly honest take on self-improvement, we simplify the process of re-evaluating your life's priorities. We offer a proven framework for focusing on what truly counts and achieving your goals with integrity. Join The Messy Podcast and, together, let's unpack the subtle art of choosing what to care about, transforming mundane concerns into meaningful actions. Embark with us to create lasting change and remarkable results by mastering the art of thoughtful indifference!

US$4.99/mo or US$44.99/yr after trial

Episodes

  1. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S1EP5 | The Importance of Saying No and Building Trust | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 1 of The Art of Giving a F*, Episode 5! Ever wonder if the things you're chasing are actually making you miserable? In this episode, "Good Values vs. S****y Values," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we get brutally honest about the values that guide our lives. Ready to take radical responsibility for your life by choosing what truly matters? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we draw a hard line between "good" values and "shitty" ones. Discover why prioritizing superficial things like pleasure, material success, or always being right can leave you feeling empty and stuck with bad problems. We'll explore why good values are reality-based, socially constructive, and within your control. Most importantly, we'll tackle the critical difference between fault and responsibility, arguing that while you may not be at fault for your circumstances, you are always responsible for how you choose to respond. It's time to learn that choosing better values leads to solving better problems. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and start giving a f*ck about better values.

    23 min
  2. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S2EP5 | The Importance of Saying No and Building Trust | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 2 of Mastering Your F's, Episode 5! What if more options don't lead to more freedom, but less? In this episode, "The Importance of Saying No and Building Trust," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we explore why saying "no" is one of the most liberating things you can do. Ready to find freedom in commitment and build stronger, more honest relationships by setting boundaries? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we argue that true freedom is found not in endless options, but through focused dedication and the rejection of alternatives. Discover why the blunt honesty of saying "no" can foster deeper, more trusting relationships than "fake-nice" agreeableness. We'll also examine the role of mortality in shaping our values, exploring how confronting our finite existence forces us to prioritize what truly matters and to discard the superficial. This is about finding meaning by choosing what to commit to, and by extension, what you are willing to reject. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and learn the power of a well-placed "no."

    17 min
  3. 22 JUN

    S1EP4 | The Value of Suffering and Self-Awareness | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 1 of The Art of Giving a F*, Episode 4! Why do some people find meaning in immense hardship while others feel like failures despite incredible success? In this episode, "The Value of Suffering and Self-Awareness," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we explore how the values you choose define your reality. Ready to get honest about what you're measuring your life against and choose better problems? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we dive into how our chosen values and metrics for success dictate our problems. Through the incredible stories of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier who fought a war for thirty years after it ended, and rockstars Dave Mustaine and Pete Best, we'll see how different values can lead to drastically different life outcomes. Discover how your perception of success can be your greatest trap, and why the key to navigating suffering isn't to avoid it, but to consciously choose the values that make the struggle worthwhile. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and start asking what values are really driving us.

    19 min
  4. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S2EP4 | Failure, Pain, and the "Do Something" Principle | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 2 of Mastering Your F's, Episode 4! What if failure isn't the end, but the very beginning of your success? In this episode, "Failure, Pain, and the 'Do Something' Principle," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we explore how hitting rock bottom might be the best thing that ever happens to you. Ready to stop waiting for motivation and start building momentum through action, no matter the outcome? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we unpack the paradoxical power of failure. You'll learn why real improvement is built on a foundation of numerous small failures and how societal pressure teaches us to fear the very process that creates growth. We'll discuss the importance of choosing process-oriented values over chasing specific outcomes. Finally, we introduce the simple yet profound "Do Something" Principle, which argues that action isn't the effect of motivation, but the cause of it. Discover how simply acting, even imperfectly, can make failure less intimidating and propel you forward. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and learn to "do something," especially when it's scary.

    17 min
  5. 22 JUN

    S1EP3 | The Tyranny of Exceptionalism | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 1 of The Art of Giving a F*, Episode 3! Ever feel like you're supposed to be extraordinary, but the pressure is just making you miserable? In this episode, "The Tyranny of Exceptionalism," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we take down the myth that everyone is destined to be special. Ready to find freedom and value in being average and build your self-worth on solid ground? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we dissect the toxic side of the self-esteem movement and reveal how the constant pressure to be exceptional fosters entitlement, not happiness. We'll meet "Jimmy," a cautionary tale of how a delusion of self-importance prevents us from addressing our own flaws. Discover how personal trauma can also fuel a sense of entitlement, and why the most liberating path forward is to embrace your own mediocrity. We'll argue that accepting the mundane, average truths of life is the real starting point for genuine self-improvement and contentment. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and celebrate the power of being perfectly average.

    14 min
  6. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S2EP3 | The Dangers of Certainty and Manson's Law | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 2 of Mastering Your F's, Episode 3! What if your strongest beliefs are actually your biggest blind spots? In this episode, "The Dangers of Certainty and Manson's Law," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we explore why being too sure of yourself can be incredibly dangerous. Ready to loosen your grip on certainty and discover the growth that lies in the unknown? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we investigate the psychological pitfalls of identifying too strongly with your own beliefs. Through a gripping personal story of delusional certainty, we'll see how an unshakeable belief in one's own righteousness can lead to harmful behavior. We introduce "Manson’s Law of Avoidance"—the idea that we instinctively protect our established identity, even when it's wrong. Discover why the path to humility and real growth requires you to embrace uncertainty and constantly question the things you believe to be true. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and start questioning everything we think we know.

    18 min
  7. 22 JUN

    S1EP2 | Happiness, Problems, and the Disappointment Panda | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 1 of The Art of Giving a F*, Episode 2! What if everything you've been told about happiness is wrong? In this episode, "Happiness, Problems, and the Disappointment Panda," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we dismantle the myth of a problem-free life and introduce you to your new favorite superhero. Ready to change your relationship with life's challenges and find happiness in the struggle? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we argue that happiness isn't a destination but an action: the continuous process of solving problems. We'll meet the "Disappointment Panda," a metaphorical hero who delivers the hard truths we need to hear—that suffering is biologically useful and that problems are a constant, evolving feature of life. Discover why running from your problems or adopting a victim mentality only leads to more misery, and how true fulfillment comes from choosing which struggles you're willing to endure. It's time to find joy in the climb, not in the fantasy of a life without challenges. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and start solving better problems.

    24 min
  8. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S2EP2 | You Are Wrong About Everything | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 2 of Mastering Your F's, Episode 2! What if the foundation of personal growth isn't being right, but embracing how wrong you constantly are? In this episode, "You Are Wrong About Everything," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we dive into the uncomfortable but liberating truth that certainty is a trap. Ready to challenge your most cherished assumptions and find freedom in uncertainty? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we explore the human tendency to be consistently wrong about, well, everything. You'll learn why true growth comes not from seeking "rightness," but from the continuous process of becoming "less wrong." We'll examine how our brains construct memories and meaning, often inaccurately, leading to flawed beliefs we hold as truth. By embracing self-skepticism and constantly questioning our own assumptions, we can open ourselves up to genuine progress and a more grounded understanding of ourselves and the world. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and get comfortable with being wrong.

    17 min
  9. 22 JUN • THE PREMIUM PLUS ONLY

    S2EP1 | Responding to Tragedy and the Hand We're Dealt | The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast for Season 2: Mastering Your F's! Life deals everyone a different hand, sometimes a truly tragic one. So what do you do when things fall apart? In this season premiere, "Episode 1: Responding to Tragedy and the Hand We're Dealt," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," we explore the one power you always have, no matter the circumstances. Ready to take control of your reactions and build resilience in the face of hardship? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we explore the profound importance of taking responsibility for your problems and emotional responses, even when you're not at fault. We'll dismantle the modern trend of "victimhood chic" and discuss how true empowerment comes not from blaming others, but from owning your reactions to the hand you're dealt. Discover why real personal transformation isn't about finding a simple "how-to" guide, but about making the conscious, difficult choice to reframe your values and priorities, no matter what challenges life throws your way. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and learn to master the only thing we ever truly control: ourselves.

    18 min
  10. SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck | Audiobook | The Messy Podcast

    Welcome back to The Messy Podcast, Season 1 of The Art of Giving a F*, Episode 1! Tired of the relentless pressure to be positive and chase a perfect life? This episode, "Don't Try: The Story of Charles Bukowski," inspired by Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," introduces a refreshingly honest approach to finding genuine contentment. Ready to stop chasing happiness and start building a life that feels authentic to you, struggles and all? Explore online therapy for a happier, healthier you: https://themessypodcast.com/therapy Important Disclaimer: This podcast series analyzes literary works and explores principles of personal growth, drawing insights that align with concepts discussed in "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck." This episode aims to provide educational and analytical content. Any references to external ideas are for commentary and educational purposes. All rights to any referenced works belong to their respective owners, and no copyright infringement is intended. To further explore the principles discussed, you can purchase "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1 In this episode, we challenge the conventional self-help narrative through the unconventional life of author Charles Bukowski. Discover why the constant pursuit of happiness paradoxically makes us feel worse and how to break free from the "Feedback Loop from Hell"—that vicious cycle of feeling bad about feeling bad. We'll introduce the core concept of the "subtle art": it's not about being indifferent, but about consciously choosing what to give a f*ck about. Learn why embracing life's inevitable problems and negative experiences is the true path to resilience and authentic personal growth. You can find more information about The Messy Podcast at this direct link: https://themessypodcast.com/ Let's get messy and learn how to stop trying so damn hard.

    25 min

Trailer

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About

Welcome to The Messy Podcast! Your essential guide to navigating life's beautiful chaos. In this special podcast series, we dive deep into the profound lessons from the book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. Are you constantly stressed about what others think? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to please everyone, or burdened by endless expectations? This groundbreaking book challenges conventional self-help wisdom, urging us to embrace our limitations, accept life's inevitable struggles, and focus our energy on what truly matters. Important Notice: The Book and Our Podcast This podcast series analyzes The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck for educational purposes and under the scope of fair use. All book copyrights belong to their respective owners, and no infringement is intended. If you're interested in rethinking your values and finding true contentment, we highly encourage you to purchase the original book here: https://amzn.to/4eeAiT1. We'll demystify the art of intentional living, transforming anxieties and external pressures into empowering strategies for a more meaningful life. Discover how to: Identify what truly matters to you Embrace discomfort and uncertainty Accept your flaws and limitations Prioritize your values over external validation Learn to focus your energy wisely and reclaim your mental freedom. We'll explore unconventional wisdom and practical approaches to help you stop caring about trivialities, overcome the need for constant positivity, and direct your efforts toward impactful pursuits. Beyond simple indifference, we'll delve into the profound concept of choosing your struggles. Understanding that life involves inherent problems is the ultimate catalyst for genuine happiness and resilience. By focusing on the problems you're willing to endure, you'll see how embracing reality can lead to unexpected peace and profound personal growth. Through relatable stories and tangible examples, we'll show you how this can radically transform your perspective on life and your path to lasting fulfillment. This podcast is ideal for anyone looking to: Manage stress and anxiety Overcome people-pleasing tendencies Build emotional resilience Achieve authentic contentment Whether you're an individual seeking personal liberation, someone feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations, or simply looking for a refreshingly honest take on self-improvement, we simplify the process of re-evaluating your life's priorities. We offer a proven framework for focusing on what truly counts and achieving your goals with integrity. Join The Messy Podcast and, together, let's unpack the subtle art of choosing what to care about, transforming mundane concerns into meaningful actions. Embark with us to create lasting change and remarkable results by mastering the art of thoughtful indifference!

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