The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast

Self-Help Junkies, Stupid Experts, and the Worst Life Advice I've Ever Heard

Sep 11, 2024

45:58

Snipd AI

Join the hosts as they seriously critique the cult of self-improvement, revealing its addictive qualities akin to religion. They humorously question the effectiveness of expert advice on motivation, noting that average folks perform just as poorly. The discussion dives into the allure of elaborate self-help solutions versus the power of simplicity and consistency. Finally, they advocate for individualized approaches to personal growth, emphasizing balance and realistic goal-setting for true fulfillment.

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Quick takeaways

The podcast critiques the obsession with self-improvement, suggesting it can become an unhealthy compulsion rather than genuine growth.

The hosts highlight skepticism towards expert advice on behavioral change, noting that even extensive studies show low success rates in interventions.

Deep dives

Refining the Podcast Format

The hosts reflect on their past experiences in the podcasting journey, acknowledging both successful and unsuccessful elements since launching around ten months ago. They emphasize the importance of learning what resonates with their audience and have decided to adopt a more consistent talk show format moving forward. The new structure will include three key segments each week: discussing current concerns, evaluating trending topics as either brilliant or bullshit, and addressing audience questions. This evolution represents a strategic pivot to focus on authentic conversations and shared insights, building on what has engaged their listeners thus far.

Redefine Success Beyond Appearances

01:30

Self-Help Mirrors Religion

01:19

Simplicity Over Complexity in Wellness

03:49

Balance Self-Improvement with Acceptance

02:38

Intro

2min

The Cult of Self-Improvement

13min

Exploring Self-Help and Religion with a Touch of Humor

2min

Rethinking Expert Insights on Gym Motivation

4min

Innovative Gym Attendance Strategies

6min

The Value of Simplicity in Self-Help

4min

Rethinking Self-Help Strategies

15min

Are you addicted to self-improvement? Are experts really any better than the rest of us at knowing how to make positive changes in our lives? What are some common pieces of life advice that just don't seem to work?

Drew and I tackle all of these questions today in our brand new, updated format for the pod. Find out why self-help can turn into pseudo-religion (and why we should bring back exorcisms), whether or not a huge mega-study by a bunch of fancy experts can tell us anything about behavioral change, and some common self-improvement tropes that just don't do it for us.

Here's the study we discuss: Megastudies improve the impact of applied behavioural science

Let us know what you think of the new show format in the comments below.

Use code MARK to get 15% off your order of health tech gear at https://BonCharge.com

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Get 10% off health services at https://marekhealth.com/idgaf

And sign up for Your Next Breakthrough, my weekly newsletter that will help you be a slightly less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough

Got a question for us? Leave it in the comments below or send it to podcast@markmanson.net

Theme song is "Icarus Lives" by Periphery.

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