‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving’ by Mark Manson has become a sensation, captivating everyone with its bold and refreshing take on personal development. With its no-nonsense approach, the book challenges conventional wisdom, urging us to prioritize what truly matters in life. It’s no wonder that you’re now hungry for more thought-provoking reads that offer similar insights and guidance on navigating the complexities of existence.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. These books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck capture the essence of ‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving’ while offering their own unique perspectives.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and embrace a life less ordinary, join us as we explore a curated list of books that are sure to resonate with fans of ‘The Subtle Art.’
Books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
Atomic Habits (2018)
by James Clear
‘Atomic Habits’ is a self-help book that explores the power of small habits and their ability to transform our lives. Clear presents a framework for building and breaking habits, emphasizing the idea that tiny changes, when consistently implemented, can lead to remarkable results over time.
The book is divided into four sections: The Fundamentals, The Four Laws of Behaviour Change, The Four Stages of Habit Formation, and Advanced Tactics. Clear introduces the concept of atomic habits, which are small, incremental actions that compound over time. He explains how habits shape our identity and how making small adjustments to our daily routines can lead to long-term success.
Throughout the book, Clear also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process rather than solely fixating on the end goal. He encourages readers to embrace small wins, redefine their identity in alignment with their desired habits, and create systems that make good habits inevitable.
Like ‘The Subtle Art,’ this book also emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s own life and choices. Both books encourage you to recognize that you have control over your attitudes, actions, and habits, and that you can make intentional changes to improve your circumstances.
Total Pages– 319 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.37
Amazon Rating– 4.8
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 38 minutes to finish Atomic Habits by James Clear.
You are a Badass (2013)
by Jen Sincero
This one aims to empower readers to overcome self-doubt, embrace their true potential, and create a life they love.
Sincero combines personal anecdotes, motivational insights, and practical advice to guide readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal transformation. She encourages readers to confront their limiting beliefs, let go of negative self-talk, and develop a positive mindset.
‘You are a Badass’ explores various topics such as setting goals, taking risks, cultivating self-love and acceptance, and harnessing the power of gratitude and visualization. Sincero emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s life, making conscious choices, and aligning with the energy of abundance and success.
The book offers a blend of humor, straight talk, and inspirational stories to inspire readers to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their dreams. It encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness, trust their intuition, and take action to create the life they desire.
Both authors, Sincero and Clear, challenge societal norms and conventional wisdom by encouraging readers to question the beliefs and values they’ve been taught. They advocate for living life on one’s own terms and rejecting societal expectations that may hinder personal growth. So, if that is the aspect of ‘The Subtle Art’ that you enjoyed, this book is for you.
Total Pages– 254 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.95
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 28 minutes to finish You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero.
Unfu*k Yourself (2016)
by Gary John Bishop
In this book, the author emphasizes the power of our thoughts and the importance of taking responsibility for our own happiness and success. He encourages readers to identify the negative self-talk and self-sabotaging patterns that hold them back and provides practical strategies for shifting their mindset.
‘Unfu*k Yourself’ explores various themes such as embracing uncertainty, letting go of past mistakes, and finding the inner strength to create a more fulfilling life. It will encourage you to take action, make positive changes, and develop a resilient mindset that can withstand challenges.
The book offers practical advice and exercises that will help you reframe your thinking, set clear goals, and develop a mindset of personal empowerment. By challenging you to confront your own excuses and adopt a proactive approach to life, the book aims to inspire individuals to create positive change and live a more fulfilling existence.
Total Pages– 227pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.83
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 34 minutes to finish Unf*ck Yourself by Gary John Bishop.
Meditations (2006)
by Marcus Aurelius
If you want a glimpse of the mind of a great emperor and stoic, this is the perfect book for you. ‘Meditations’ is a collection of personal writings by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, who reigned from 161 to 180 AD. The book, composed as a series of philosophical reflections and self-examinations, provides insight into Aurelius’ thoughts and beliefs on various aspects of life, ethics, and self-improvement.
Aurelius wrote ‘Meditations’ as a form of self-reflection and guidance for himself, rather than intending it for publication. The work is divided into twelve books, each containing a series of numbered passages or entries that explore different themes and philosophical ideas.
The book incorporates Stoic philosophy, and throughout the text, Aurelius emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life, focusing on principles such as humility, rationality, and justice. He reflects on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. Aurelius also emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-control.
Total Pages– 254 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.27
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 28 minutes to finish Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.
Letters from a Stoic (65 AD)
by Seneca
Seneca’s letters are rooted in Stoic philosophy, which centres on the belief that individuals should focus on developing inner tranquillity and accepting the aspects of life they cannot control. Manson’s book doesn’t explicitly align with any specific philosophical school, but it incorporates Stoic principles by advocating for embracing adversity and finding meaning in life’s challenges.
‘Letters from a Stoic’ is a collection of letters addressed by Seneca to his friend Lucilius. The book serves as a guide to Stoic philosophy and provides practical advice on how to live a virtuous and fulfilling life.
Seneca covers a wide range of topics in his letters, including ethics, virtue, friendship, death, and the pursuit of wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a tranquil and contented mind, encouraging readers to detach themselves from external desires and to focus on internal virtues.
Throughout the letters, Seneca emphasizes the Stoic principles of self-control, acceptance of fate, and the pursuit of wisdom. He advocates for living in accordance with nature, acknowledging the impermanence of life, and accepting both good and bad events with equanimity.
Total Pages– 254 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.35
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 28 minutes to finish Letters from a Stoic by Seneca.
The Courage to be Disliked (2013)
by Ichiro Kishimi, Fumitake Koga
‘The Courage to be Disliked’ provides a fresh perspective on personal development and offers practical insights on how to navigate life’s challenges. It promotes the idea that by embracing one’s own uniqueness and accepting the freedom to choose, individuals can find happiness and live a fulfilling life.
The book is structured as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man seeking guidance on how to find happiness and fulfilment in life. It draws heavily from the principles of Alfred Adler, a renowned psychologist.
At the center of the book is the idea that individuals have the power to change their perspectives and overcome their limitations, regardless of their past or external circumstances. It challenges the commonly held belief that one’s past determines their present and future, advocating instead for taking responsibility for one’s choices and focusing on the present moment.
The book introduces the concept of “separating tasks” to explain how people can distinguish between what is within their control and what is not. By recognizing and accepting the things they cannot change, individuals can focus their energy on the areas where they have influence, leading to a sense of empowerment and personal growth.
By questioning societal norms and encouraging personal reflection, the book aims to inspire readers to cultivate courage and live authentically. ‘The Courage to be Disliked’ is a must-read for all self-help fans out there.
Total Pages– 288 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.04
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 36 minutes to finish The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi, Fumitake Koga.
The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking (2012)
by Oliver Burkeman
‘The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking’ by Oliver Burkeman challenges the popular notion that positive thinking is the key to happiness. Burkeman explores the flaws and limitations of the positive thinking movement and offers an alternative approach to finding contentment and fulfilment in life.
Drawing from various philosophies and schools of thought, Burkeman suggests embracing uncertainty, acknowledging, and accepting negative emotions, and embracing the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability of life. He will encourage you to face your fears, confront your mortality, and reframe your perspectives on failure and setbacks.
By embracing the negative aspects of life, Burkeman argues that we can find a deeper and more sustainable form of happiness and well-being. Through engaging anecdotes, research, and philosophical insights, Burkeman presents a thought-provoking and refreshing perspective on the pursuit of happiness.
Total Pages– 256 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.03
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 32 minutes to finish The Antidote by Oliver Burkeman.
The Obstacle is The Way (2014)
by Ryan Holiday
This book draws inspiration from Stoic philosophy to provide practical guidance on how to navigate and overcome obstacles in life. The book presents a framework for transforming adversity into opportunities for growth and success.
Holiday explores the concept that the obstacles we face are not inherently negative but can be reframed as valuable challenges that can lead to personal and professional development. He examines the lives and stories of historical figures and contemporary individuals who have exemplified the principles of the Stoic philosophy, demonstrating how they turned their obstacles into advantages.
The book emphasizes three main principles: perception, action and will.
‘The Obstacle is The Way’ serves as a practical guidebook for individuals seeking to overcome challenges and thrive in the face of adversity. It offers insights, anecdotes, and actionable advice that can be applied to various aspects of life, including personal relationships, work, and personal growth. By adopting a Stoic mindset and utilizing the strategies presented, you can learn to embrace obstacles and turn them into stepping stones toward success.
Total Pages– 201 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.15
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 6 hours and 42 minutes to finish The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday.
How to be a Stoic (2017)
by Massimo Pigluicci
Massimo Pigliucci shares stories from his own life and how Stoicism has impacted him, while Mark Manson combines philosophical insights with personal stories to illustrate his ideas.
This book is a modern guide that introduces readers to Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that offers practical wisdom for living a fulfilling and meaningful life. Pigliucci, drawing upon the teachings of ancient Stoic philosophers like Epictetus and Seneca, presents Stoicism as a philosophy of life that is relevant and applicable to the challenges of the present day.
The book is divided into three parts: The Discipline of Perception, The Discipline of Action, and The Discipline of Will. In each section, Pigliucci explores different aspects of Stoic philosophy and provides guidance on how to apply its principles in everyday life.
Throughout the book, Pigliucci draws on personal anecdotes, historical examples, and philosophical insights to make Stoic teachings accessible and applicable to modern life. He encourages readers to adopt Stoic practices, reflecting on their own values and choices, and striving to live with virtue, wisdom, and resilience.
Total Pages– 288 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.06
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 36 minutes to finish How to be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci.
A New Earth (2005)
by Eckhart Tolle
‘A New Earth’ is a spiritual guidebook that aims to help readers awaken to a new state of consciousness and find inner peace and fulfilment. Tolle explores the concept of ego, the illusory sense of self that causes suffering and separates individuals from their true essence. He examines the ego’s role in creating conflicts, both personal and global, and offers insights on how to transcend its influence.
He also encourages readers to live in the present moment, embracing the power of now, and cultivating a deep sense of presence and awareness. Through practical teachings and examples, he provides guidance on how to dissolve the ego, break free from patterns of suffering, and live a more conscious and awakened life.
This book offers a transformative perspective on spirituality, inviting readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation.
Total Pages– 316 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.14
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 32 minutes to finish A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle.
The Four Agreements (1997)
by Don Miguel Ruiz
Like Manson, Ruiz argues that true happiness and fulfilment come from adopting alternative perspectives and values that prioritize authenticity, personal growth, and inner peace.
This is a self-help book that draws on ancient Toltec wisdom to offer a guide for personal freedom and transformation. The book presents four principles or agreements that, when followed, can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life:
a. Be impeccable with your word: The first agreement emphasizes the power of words and the importance of using them with integrity. It encourages individuals to speak truthfully, avoid gossip and self-deprecating thoughts, and use their words to promote love and kindness.
b. Don’t take anything personally: The second agreement teaches that the opinions and actions of others are a reflection of their own reality, not a reflection of one’s worth. It encourages individuals to not take things personally, release the need for external validation, and maintain a strong sense of self-worth.
c. Don’t make assumptions: The third agreement highlights the dangers of making assumptions and jumping to conclusions. It encourages individuals to ask questions, seek clarity, and communicate effectively to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts.
d. Always do your best: The fourth agreement emphasizes the importance of giving your best effort in all aspects of life. It encourages individuals to embrace self-improvement, take responsibility for their actions, and strive for personal growth without comparing themselves to others.
By incorporating these four agreements into daily life, Ruiz suggests that individuals can break free from self-limiting beliefs, find inner peace, and create more authentic and meaningful relationships with others.
A must-read for all self-help fans.
Total Pages– 153 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.18
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 5 hours and 6 minutes to finish The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.
Conclusion to Books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*CK
And that concludes the list for books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*CK!
The search for books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*CK can lead you to a wide array of insightful and thought-provoking reads. These books tackle themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and embracing a more meaningful life. Whether you resonate with Mark Manson’s blunt and no-nonsense approach or prefer a different writing style, there are plenty of options available to further expand your understanding and perspective.
I am sure that the above list will quench your thirst and conclude your search for self-help books similar to ‘The Subtle Art.’ So, explore these recommendations with an open mind, allowing yourself to absorb the wisdom and apply it in ways that align with your own journey. Happy growing!
However, if you want more books like The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*CK beyond the list above, you should consider-
- Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink
- Can’t hurt me by David Goggins
- F*ck Feelings by Michael Bennett
- You are a Bad Ass by Jen Sincero
- The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker
- Enchriridion by Epictetus
- The War of Art by Stephen Pressfield
- The Prince by Machiavelli
- 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
- The Anitode by Oliver Burkeman
- The Untethered Soul by Michael Alan Singer
- Laziness Does Not Exist by Devon Price
- The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris
- The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama
- No Asshole Rule by Sutton
- The Mystic Path to Cosmic Power by Vernon Howard
- The Power of Now by Ekhart Tolle
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