# Mark Manson — complete archive in chronological order

Source: https://markmanson.net/
Essays: 100 · Span: 2010-08-09 to 2015-12-17 · Total reading time: ~15 hours

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## Essays

1. [This is Water](https://markmanson.net/this-is-water) (2010-08-09) — 17 min
  Mark Manson shares David Foster Wallace's speech, which challenges conventional wisdom surrounding the purpose of a liberal arts education. Through insightful anecdotes about fish and water, as well as a barroom discussion about the existence of God, he explores the importance of not just how to think, but what to think about. Delivered as a commencement speech, this essay encourages readers to question their own beliefs and embrace the power of choice when it comes to shaping their worldview.
2. [The Zen Dilemma](https://markmanson.net/the-zen-dilemma) (2010-09-19) — 5 min
  Mark Manson explores the dilemma of Zen philosophy in modern life. Is it really possible to be unattached to everything? Can we be present without ignoring the past or the future? With a personal touch and insightful analysis, he challenges the conventional understanding of attachment and desire, offering a new perspective on what it means to truly be present. If you've ever grappled with the contradictions of Zen and Eastern philosophy, this essay will make you question your beliefs and open your mind to a different way of thinking.
3. [Compatibility and Chemistry in Relationships](https://markmanson.net/compatibility-and-chemistry) (2010-12-18) — 11 min
  Mark Manson, tackles the concepts of compatibility and chemistry in relationships. He delves into the often misunderstood difference between the two and why understanding this difference is crucial for a happy and long-term relationship. Manson challenges the conventional dating advice that focuses on superficial tactics and instead explores the fundamental alignment of values and lifestyles. If you're interested in gaining a deeper understanding of what truly makes a relationship thrive.
4. [The Wisdom of Surfing
](https://markmanson.net/the-wisdom-of-surfing) (2010-12-22) — 16 min
  Mark Manson explores how surfing goes beyond just a sport or hobby and becomes a way of life, providing a therapeutic and meditative release for its practitioners. Manson shares the lessons and wisdom that can be learned from surfing, including the importance of mindfulness and physical health.
5. [The Three Loves Theory
](https://markmanson.net/three-loves-theory) (2011-01-21) — 6 min
  Mark Manson delves into the Three Loves Theory, a framework developed by anthropologist Helen Fisher to understand the complexities of relationships. Manson explores the different dimensions of love - Lust, Passion, and Commitment - all experienced in distinct parts of the brain. By examining the neurobiological components of each love experience, Fisher sheds light on the diverse emotions that arise at different stages of romantic relationships. Join Manson as he unravels the intricacies of love, offering valuable insights for understanding and navigating the complex landscape of human connections.
6. [Woman Lovers and Woman Haters](https://markmanson.net/woman-lovers-and-haters) (2011-05-17)
7. [How to Give Advice to Others](https://markmanson.net/how-to-give-advice) (2011-08-20) — 6 min
  Mark Manson delves into the art of giving advice in the digital age, where everyone thinks they're an expert. He outlines six essential principles to follow when offering advice, emphasizing the importance of giving advice only when it's sought and ensuring you have the knowledge and experience to back it up. Manson cautions against projecting our own issues onto others and warns against the condescension that often accompanies psychoanalysis. This thought-provoking essay will challenge your approach to advice-giving and shed light on how to truly be helpful without coming across as a know-it-all.
8. [The Levels of Eye Contact](https://markmanson.net/the-levels-of-eye-contact) (2011-08-05) — 14 min
  Mark Manson delves into the intriguing world of eye contact and its significance in various social interactions, including dating. In this article, he decrypts the 11 levels of eye contact, empowering readers to decipher hidden messages and gauge attraction. Manson explores the power of eye contact, from its arousing effect to capturing attention and instilling belief. Discover how eye contact can make you appear smarter, more sincere, and bring about meaningful connections. Whether you're an eye contact enthusiast or find it intimidating, this guide will shed light on the complexities and benefits of mastering this subtle yet impactful action.
9. [Your Honest-to-God Guide to STDs
](https://markmanson.net/std-guide) (2011-10-31) — 16 min
  Mark Manson dives into the often taboo topic of STDs, offering a refreshingly honest and realistic perspective. He challenges the fear-based approach to STD education and instead provides practical insights on prevalence, risk factors, and the reality of living with an STD. Manson's candid exploration aims to empower readers with knowledge and shed light on the often misunderstood world of sexually transmitted infections. A must-read for those seeking a more grounded and informed understanding of STDs.
10. [How I Quit Smoking For Good](https://markmanson.net/how-i-quit-smoking) (2011-11-28) — 7 min
  Mark Manson shares his personal journey of quitting smoking and the struggles he faced along the way. From sneaking cigarettes to failed attempts, Manson delves into the mindset required to truly give up the habit. He advocates for a cold turkey approach and emphasizes the importance of truly wanting to quit. If you've ever struggled with quitting smoking or are curious about the psychology behind addiction, this article is a must-read. Discover how Manson overcame his addiction and gained control over his life in this captivating and relatable essay.
11. [Interviewing Like a Boss](https://markmanson.net/interviewing-like-a-boss) (2011-12-02) — 11 min
  Mark Manson unveils his proven process for nailing job interviews in this insightful article. With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, Manson shares practical lessons gained from numerous interviews, offering a unique perspective that goes beyond job performance alone. Learn how to craft compelling answers to common questions, conduct rehearsals, and even record yourself to fine-tune your delivery. Elevate your interviewing skills and gain a significant edge over your competition. Get ready to master the art of interviewing like a boss.
12. [A Dust Over India](https://markmanson.net/a-dust-over-india) (2011-12-06) — 19 min
  Mark Manson takes readers on a visceral journey through India, revealing the stark contrast of its horrors and delights. From mountains of garbage and overwhelming poverty to the awe-inspiring monuments and sites of human ingenuity, Manson shares his raw and emotional experience of a country that leaves an indelible impression. As he questions the social accountability and wonders about the government's role, readers are prompted to contemplate the complexities and contradictions that exist within societies. Get ready for a thought-provoking exploration of India's grit and resilience, accompanied by Manson's signature wit and insight.
13. [Attachment Styles and How They Affect Your Relationships](https://markmanson.net/attachment-styles) (2011-12-13) — 18 min
  Discover how attachment styles impact your romantic relationships in this insightful article by Mark Manson. Drawing from Attachment Theory, Manson explains how our early experiences with parental attachment shape our behaviors and beliefs in adult relationships. He delves into the four main attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and anxious-avoidant—and examines how they affect communication, trust, and emotional connection. Whether you're curious about your own attachment style or seeking to better understand your partner, this article provides valuable insights into navigating the complexities of relationships.
14. [The Simple Joys Are the Most Meaningful](https://markmanson.net/joy-and-meaning) (2012-02-21) — 7 min
  Mark Manson reflects on the simple joys that bring the most meaning to our lives. In this engaging and relatable essay, he recounts his frustrating experience in a foreign country, highlighting the challenges and moments of isolation that come with a nomadic lifestyle. Despite the occasional difficulties, Manson emphasizes the value of embracing the highs and lows, appreciating the small pleasures, and ultimately finding fulfillment through life's everyday experiences. Prepare to be inspired to find joy in the ordinary and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
15. [How Pornography Can Ruin Your Sex Life](https://markmanson.net/pornography-can-ruin-your-sex-life) (2012-03-27) — 12 min
  Discover how pornography can negatively impact your sex life in this eye-opening essay by Mark Manson. Delving into the science behind pornography addiction, Manson explores how it can lead to desensitization, psychological dependency, and relationship problems. Uncover the potential consequences of porn addiction, from decreased sexual satisfaction to support for violence against women. Manson's thought-provoking analysis offers valuable insights into the hidden dangers of pornography and encourages a reevaluation of our relationship with it. Don't miss this enlightening read that challenges societal norms and prompts reflection on our sexual behaviors.
16. [Are You an Emotional Vampire?](https://markmanson.net/are-you-an-emotional-vampire) (2012-03-28) — 11 min
  Discover the truth about emotional vampires in this eye-opening article by Mark Manson. Are you constantly drained by certain people in your life? Do you find yourself seeking validation and attention, while also deflecting blame onto others? Manson explores the traits and patterns of emotional vampires, shedding light on why they behave the way they do and the impact they have on those around them. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking read that will make you rethink your relationships and empower you to break free from toxic dynamics.
17. [When The Fall Comes](https://markmanson.net/when-the-fall-comes) (2012-04-09) — 4 min
  Mark Manson delves into the depths of a profound moment between two individuals, exploring the power of intimate connection and the impact it has on our thoughts and emotions. In this subscriber-only article, Manson's vivid and introspective writing shines as he contemplates how to capture the essence of the moment. Unlock this exclusive content to gain access to his unique perspectives and in-depth analysis, along with a wealth of additional resources to improve your life. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join the insightful world of Mark Manson.
18. [Meditation: Why You Should Do It](https://markmanson.net/benefits-of-meditation) (2012-04-13) — 17 min
  Discover the transformative power of meditation as Mark Manson breaks down its benefits and provides a simple guide on how to incorporate this practice into your daily routine. Manson unveils the countless mental, emotional, and physical advantages of meditation, while exploring how it helps us disengage from unhelpful thoughts and cultivate mindfulness. Whether you've struggled with meditation in the past or are a complete beginner, this thought-provoking essay will inspire you to embrace the power of stillness and unlock the potential for a happier and healthier life.
19. [The Ipanema Boardwalk](https://markmanson.net/the-ipanema-boardwalk) (2012-04-16) — 4 min
  Join Mark Manson as he takes you on a journey along the vibrant Ipanema Boardwalk in Rio de Janeiro. In this exclusive subscriber-only article, Manson delves into the atmosphere and mindset of those who frequent the boardwalk, exploring themes of body image, comparison, and envy. Discover the unique dynamics and aspirations of the people who gather there, and gain insights into the complexities of human nature. If you're ready to dive deep into Manson's thought-provoking writing and gain access to his exclusive subscriber content, this is an article you won't want to miss. Feed your intellect and join the conversation.
20. [Do You Need Therapy?](https://markmanson.net/therapy) (2012-04-24) — 9 min
  In this eye-opening article, Mark Manson uncovers the truth behind therapy and addresses common misconceptions. Dispelling stereotypes of therapy as crying on a couch or simply prescription of pills, Manson explains the purpose of therapy: to become aware of our unconscious mind and gain control over it. He explores different forms of therapy, such as digging into past traumas or using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to change thought patterns. Manson also discusses the potential pitfalls of therapy, including the over-prescription of medication and the misconceived notion that therapists can magically fix our problems. Get ready to challenge your preconceptions about therapy.
21. [Analysis Paralysis](https://markmanson.net/analysis-paralysis) (2012-05-01) — 6 min
22. [Why You Should Care About Many Things](https://markmanson.net/why-you-should-care-about-many-things) (2012-05-14) — 9 min
23. [25 Tips to Learn a Foreign Language](https://markmanson.net/learn-a-foreign-language) (2012-05-24) — 17 min
24. [The Rise and Fall of Ken Wilber](https://markmanson.net/ken-wilber) (2012-06-04) — 14 min
25. [It’s Complicated: Why Relationships and Dating Can Be So Hard](https://markmanson.net/why-dating-is-so-hard) (2012-06-12) — 14 min
26. [Minimalism](https://markmanson.net/minimalism) (2012-06-15) — 10 min
27. [10 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About America](https://markmanson.net/10-things-most-americans-dont-know) (2012-07-10) — 4 min
28. [How to Quit Your Day Job and Travel the World](https://markmanson.net/how-to-quit-your-job-and-travel-the-world) (2012-07-14) — 14 min
29. [How to Make Your Own Luck](https://markmanson.net/how-to-make-your-own-luck) (2012-08-13) — 9 min
30. [10 Reasons Why You Fail](https://markmanson.net/why-you-fail) (2012-08-21) — 13 min
31. [Why Self-Awareness Is Sexy](https://markmanson.net/why-self-awareness-is-sexy) (2012-08-29) — 6 min
32. [The Most Important Belief You Can Have](https://markmanson.net/the-prime-belief) (2012-09-03) — 6 min
33. [Wanderlust](https://markmanson.net/wanderlust) (2012-09-20) — 5 min
34. [An Open Letter to My 18-Year-Old Self](https://markmanson.net/open-letter) (2012-10-08) — 4 min
35. [The Borders of Sexual Harassment](https://markmanson.net/sexual-harassment) (2012-10-19) — 4 min
36. [The Guide to Being Miserable](https://markmanson.net/the-guide-to-being-miserable) (2012-11-10) — 8 min
37. [The 80/20 Principle and How It Can Change Your Life](https://markmanson.net/80-20-your-life) (2012-11-30) — 6 min
38. [You Have Two Minds—Here’s How to Use Them](https://markmanson.net/your-two-minds) (2012-12-07) — 10 min
39. [5 Problems With the Self-Help Industry](https://markmanson.net/self-help) (2012-12-12) — 8 min
40. [Shut Up and Be Grateful](https://markmanson.net/shut-up-and-be-grateful) (2012-12-17) — 7 min
41. [The Right and Wrong Ways to Flirt](https://markmanson.net/flirting) (2013-01-04) — 11 min
42. [“Check, Please” – A Short Story About Perspective](https://markmanson.net/check-please) (2013-01-11) — 4 min
43. [The Guide to Strong Relationship Boundaries](https://markmanson.net/boundaries) (2013-01-14) — 16 min
44. [You’re Okay](https://markmanson.net/youre-okay) (2013-01-17) — 5 min
45. [The Bad Acid Trip](https://markmanson.net/the-bad-acid-trip) (2013-01-21) — 4 min
46. [20 Paradoxes That Are True](https://markmanson.net/paradoxes-that-are-true) (2013-02-06) — 6 min
47. [How to Break Up With Someone](https://markmanson.net/how-to-break-up-with-someone) (2013-02-14) — 13 min
48. [5 Life Lessons I Learned From Playing Guitar](https://markmanson.net/playing-guitar) (2013-03-14) — 4 min
49. [Why Your Relationships Fail](https://markmanson.net/why-your-relationships-fail) (2013-04-02) — 4 min
50. [Sex and Our Psychological Needs](https://markmanson.net/sex-and-our-psychological-needs) (2013-04-11) — 11 min
51. [How Disney Ruined Sex for Everyone](https://markmanson.net/disney) (2013-05-16) — 9 min
52. [How to Read Faster and Remember More](https://markmanson.net/read-faster) (2013-05-22) — 12 min
53. [Change Your Mind About Dating](https://markmanson.net/change-your-mind) (2013-05-28) — 5 min
54. [Fuck Yes or No](https://markmanson.net/fuck-yes) (2013-07-08) — 9 min
55. [The Dark Side of the Digital Nomad](https://markmanson.net/digital-nomad) (2013-07-10) — 4 min
56. [Why Some Dreams Should Not Be Pursued](https://markmanson.net/dreams) (2013-07-22) — 10 min
57. [You Already Have Everything You Need](https://markmanson.net/everything-you-need) (2013-07-29) — 4 min
58. [6 Signs You’re in a Toxic Relationship](https://markmanson.net/toxic-relationship-signs) (2013-08-08) — 13 min
59. [Why Everyone on the Internet Is an Asshole](https://markmanson.net/internet) (2013-08-15) — 3 min
60. [Being Special Isn’t So Special](https://markmanson.net/being-special) (2013-08-22) — 7 min
61. [How Do You Measure Your Life?](https://markmanson.net/measure-your-life) (2013-09-05) — 12 min
62. [Find What You Love and Let It Kill You](https://markmanson.net/find-what-you-love) (2013-09-19) — 7 min
63. [7 Things Sex Education Should Have Taught Us But Didn’t](https://markmanson.net/sex-education) (2013-10-02) — 9 min
64. [Stop Trying to Be Happy](https://markmanson.net/stop-trying-to-be-happy) (2013-10-10) — 10 min
65. [9 Subtle Lies We All Tell Ourselves](https://markmanson.net/9-subtle-lies-we-all-tell-ourselves) (2013-10-30) — 9 min
66. [The Most Important Question of Your Life](https://markmanson.net/question) (2013-11-06) — 9 min
67. [Why I’m Wrong About Everything (And So Are You)](https://markmanson.net/wrong-about-everything) (2013-11-21) — 7 min
68. [3 Things School Taught You Without You Even Realizing It](https://markmanson.net/school) (2013-12-11) — 9 min
69. [How We Judge Others Is How We Judge Ourselves](https://markmanson.net/how-we-judge-others) (2014-01-09) — 7 min
70. [A Brief History of Male/Female Relations](https://markmanson.net/male-female-relations) (2014-01-23) — 18 min
71. [3 Simple Explanations for Why You’re Still Single](https://markmanson.net/still-single) (2014-02-13) — 7 min
72. [The Hidden Costs of Happiness](https://markmanson.net/hidden-costs-of-happiness) (2014-02-20) — 9 min
73. [10 Life Lessons I Learned from Surviving My 20s](https://markmanson.net/surviving-my-20s) (2014-03-06) — 13 min
74. [10 Life Lessons to Excel in Your 30s](https://markmanson.net/10-life-lessons-excel-30s) (2014-03-20) — 19 min
75. [6 Healthy Relationship Habits Most People Think Are Toxic](https://markmanson.net/healthy-relationship-habits) (2014-05-09) — 14 min
76. [Love Is Not Enough](https://markmanson.net/love) (2014-07-04) — 10 min
77. [The Breakthrough Fallacy—What Change Actually Looks Like](https://markmanson.net/breakthrough-fallacy) (2014-08-06) — 13 min
78. [How to Attract Women](https://markmanson.net/attract-women) (2014-08-16) — 16 min
79. [No, It’s Not All Your Parents’ Fault](https://markmanson.net/parents) (2014-08-28) — 11 min
80. [5 Life Lessons From 5 Years of Traveling the World](https://markmanson.net/5-life-lessons-5-years-traveling-world) (2014-09-03) — 4 min
81. [7 Strange Questions That Help You Find Your Life Purpose](https://markmanson.net/life-purpose) (2014-09-18) — 16 min
82. [No, You Can’t Have It All](https://markmanson.net/you-cant-have-it-all) (2014-10-02) — 7 min
83. [How to Take Risks](https://markmanson.net/risk) (2014-10-16) — 9 min
84. [63 Steps to Survive the Worst Moments of Your Life](https://markmanson.net/worst-moments-of-your-life) (2014-11-06) — 9 min
85. [In the Future, Our Attention Will Be Sold](https://markmanson.net/attention-economy) (2014-12-04) — 17 min
86. [The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck](https://markmanson.net/not-giving-a-fuck) (2015-01-08) — 11 min
87. [The Staggering Bullshit of “The Secret”](https://markmanson.net/the-secret) (2015-02-26) — 16 min
88. [The Only Way to Be Confident](https://markmanson.net/how-to-be-confident) (2015-03-12) — 7 min
89. [7 Books That Will Change How You See the World](https://markmanson.net/7-books) (2015-04-02) — 17 min
90. [Why People Cheat in Relationships](https://markmanson.net/why-people-cheat) (2015-04-23) — 13 min
91. [The Four Stages of Life](https://markmanson.net/four-stages-of-life) (2015-05-21) — 13 min
92. [How to Find “The One”](https://markmanson.net/how-to-find-the-one) (2015-06-04) — 21 min
93. [In Defense of Being Average](https://markmanson.net/being-average) (2015-06-18) — 12 min
94. [How to Stop Procrastinating](https://markmanson.net/how-to-stop-procrastinating) (2015-07-12) — 14 min
95. [5 Things That Should Be Taught in Every School](https://markmanson.net/taught-in-school) (2015-07-20) — 4 min
96. [How to Survive a Long Distance Relationship](https://markmanson.net/long-distance-relationships) (2015-08-06) — 11 min
97. [Romance Is Like Alcohol](https://markmanson.net/romance) (2015-09-17) — 4 min
98. [Screw Finding Your Passion](https://markmanson.net/screw-finding-your-passion) (2015-10-22) — 8 min
99. [Why I Have a Potty Mouth](https://markmanson.net/potty-mouth) (2015-11-23) — 4 min
100. [Shut Up and Be Patient](https://markmanson.net/be-patient) (2015-12-17) — 10 min