"The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck," written by Mark Manson, has been one of the most influential pieces of literature I have ever read. It instilled a fresh perspective in my mind that has ultimately changed my life for the better. It taught me to not give a f*ck, and for that I am grateful.
"Well," a lot of people ask me, "how does one stop giving a f*ck?" This is my answer.
I used to give a ton of f*cks. I was riddled with anxiety, and I felt as if it would be perpetual. I still do feel anxious to a certain extent, because that's human nature. Most humans experience anxiety due to our fast-paced and often unforgiving society. My own anxiety levels were high until I realized that I was only a single speck in this universe.
We often get caught up in our own idea that things are permanent. But unless it's a tattoo or the death of a loved one, it is temporary. Because ultimately, life is temporary. Human existence is temporary. Our planet is temporary. I know that may sound cynical, but that doesn't make it any less true.
Everything ends, no matter how depressing that sounds. My life is going to end one day, so why not take some risks? Not big risks like bungee jumping or hiking Mount Everest, but little ones like talking to my crush or wearing a weird outfit. We only have one life, so why not experience all the thrills of being social and trying new things?
I no longer care about who I am friends with, as long as they are decent, respectful human beings. I no longer worry about what people think of my outfits, as long as I feel confident in how I look. I no longer care about what people think of my opinions, because their judgments are completely irrelevant to my life. I live a life where I am shamelessly myself. I do what I want because I understand that I cannot please everyone in this world.
I believe that everything happens for a reason. No matter what happens, positive or negative, it is here to make me become a better person. My life may be temporary but I believe that there is something out there guiding the universe in my favor. I have been thrown curve balls, for sure, but I know that in the end, it is there to make me improve.
Not giving a f*ck isn't for everyone. At first, it really was not for me.
As I previously stated, I have dealt with anxiety for many years. This lifestyle change (some people disagree that it is a lifestyle) has made my life improve like no other. Just understanding that everything is temporary and living life to the fullest is some of the best advice I have ever been given.
Life is short. Try new things, meet new people, go to the party, and live your best life.
