In The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck*, author Mark Manson challenges the belief that success, greatness, and happiness come from achieving the things we desire. Instead, he argues that these outcomes depend on the pain and sacrifice we’re willing to endure. In other words, while most people want the same things in life, only those willing to accept the responsibility that comes with their ambitions can achieve them.
Health Goals: Embracing Discipline Over Comfort
Almost everyone wants to be healthy, yet true health demands commitment and sacrifice. Achieving it requires facing the discomfort of regular exercise, pushing through early morning workouts, and choosing to eat nutritious foods over unhealthy options. Because so few are willing to accept this responsibility, many remain unhealthy, even though they desire otherwise.
Teamwork and Selflessness in Athletics
In my experience working with athletes, I’ve found that most talk about “team” and “unity,” but often, it’s only appealing if they’re the star. True teamwork requires setting aside selfish desires, being willing to take on a supporting role, and sometimes waiting for their turn to shine. When people aren’t willing to do this, unity falls apart, and team success becomes impossible.
Building Strong Relationships Requires Selflessness
Who doesn’t want strong relationships or a fulfilling marriage and family life? But these things don’t come easily; they require sacrifice, vulnerability, grace, and unconditional love. Many people struggle with these demands, having become entitled or overly focused on their own pleasure. Instead of building lasting relationships, they hold grudges and keep score, preventing genuine connection.
Challenges and Suffering: The Inevitable Price of Fulfillment
Challenges and obstacles are inevitable in life, so rather than avoiding them, we should learn to embrace them. If you reflect on any meaningful accomplishment in your life, it likely came with its own set of challenges. This suffering is what makes those achievements feel worthwhile and special.
Find a Worthy Challenge and Commit Fully
If you seek success, happiness, or greatness, find a challenge worth fighting for and give it your all. It’s this process—these battles and the sacrifices they require—that make life special. The journey of overcoming hardship is what shapes us into who we’re truly meant to be.