The New York Times bestselling TikTok sensation with more than 13 million copies sold worldwide, The Courage to Be Disliked is a transformative and practical guide to personal happiness and self-fulfillment.
Now you can unlock your full potential and free yourself from the shackles of past traumas and societal expectations to find true personal happiness. Based on the theories of renowned psychologist Alfred Adler, this book guides you through the principles of self-forgiveness, self-care, and mind decluttering in a straightforward, easy-to-digest style that’s accessible to all.
The Courage to Be Disliked unfolds as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, who, over the course of five enriching conversations, realizes that each of us is in control of our life’s direction, independent of past burdens and expectations of others.
Wise, empowering, and profoundly liberating, this book is a life-changing experience that shows you a path to lasting happiness and how to finally be the person you truly want to be. Millions are already benefiting from its teachings—and you can be next.
12 reviews for The Courage to Be Disliked: How to Free Yourself, Change Your Life, and Achieve Real Happiness
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Michael Collins –
Thought provoking and easy to read
This book lays out its ideas in a simple conversation style that makes the philosophy easy to follow. Some points really make you stop and think, and it challenges the way you look at responsibility, relationships, and personal freedom. You may not agree with everything in it, but it sparks reflection and stays with you long after you finish. A solid read if you like books that shift your perspective.
Laura C –
It will motivate you into action!
Do you love personal growth and consistently strive for self improvement? Do you struggle to free yourself from past traumas? I have read dozens of books on human nature, spiritual growth, enlightment, and similar topics. NEVER has a book so clearly held up the mirror as this one has. I’m only 70 pages in and already see multiple ways in which I make excuses NOT to take responsibility for my life. This book truly inspires you to find the courage it takes to go from who you are to who you want to be. This is a MUST read for enlightment seekers, people who deal with depression, anyone believing their past causes them to be the way they are, and all people who want to take control of their life. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
Anaya –
Good book
Good book. I like how the man and the boy go back and forth. Very insightful and makes you think.
Ivel De Freitas, MD –
Great book
Practical guide to ease your life and find happiness. Easy and fun to read. Simple but deep. Great book!! Glad I found it!!
Rae Edits –
Best book I have read all year
Best book I have read all year! Take your time as it is deep!
Monica –
The Conversational Format Threw Me Off
Hello! My name is Monica, and I am a people pleaser. When I saw The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga I knew I needed to read it. The courage to be disliked is something I need in my life!The cover of the book is simple, yet elegant. Peaceful. I like the colors and the image. It’s definitely inviting. I was very excited to read it and gain all this wisdom and knowledge—and change my life!Then, I opened the book to the introduction. Maybe I should have realized this beforehand, but I didn’t. The entire book is written in dialogue form. The whole thing is a big conversation. Honestly, I was upset but decided to give it a try and keep reading.I’m sure there are great amounts of wisdom in this book, but I don’t think I’m smart enough to glean them from the text. I read the whole book, and the conversational format completely threw me off.Philosophy is not my jam. I know the names of Freud, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, but I have no idea what they taught or discussed. Yes, I’m showing my own ineptitude here, but that’s why I wanted to read the book. I wanted to learn and understand more about philosophy. In my opinion, this book is not the way to go to do that.What did I want? Well, I need a philosophy for dummies book. Start at the very beginning and explain, in detail, who the philosophers are and what they believe or teach. Give definitions, examples, and more examples so I can highlight them, take notes in the margins, and have time to think and process the info. The conversational format did not allow for that at all. The conversation moved on and left my understanding lying on the ground behind it.Another thing I had a difficult time with was that there are several anti-Christian references, which I didn’t like. He also makes it seem like you can just think your way out of ADHD and mental illness. Sorry–I live with and love a few people with ADHD and mental illness, and it’s not that easy.If you have more of a background in philosophy and psychology, and if you understand the different philosophies of Freud and Adler, then this book may be more for you!Did I gain the courage to be disliked from The Courage to be Disliked? Ummmm…no. Sadly, I did not. It’s ok, though! I’ll keep working on it!Content Rating: PG-Profanity: None-Intimacy: None-Violence: NoneAge Recommendation: 16+ (Younger readers will not understand or care.)3/5 stars
Amazon Customer –
Embracing Divine Freedom: The Courage to Be Disliked in the “Christian” Journey
In “The Courage to Be Disliked,” authors Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga present a compelling dialogue that bridges the gap between psychology and philosophy, drawing on the principles of Alfred Adler, a founding figure of individual psychology. The book is structured as a conversation between a philosopher and a young man, providing a unique narrative style that engages readers on both intellectual and emotional levels.One of the most significant contributions of this work is its exploration of the human desire for approval versus the necessity of self-acceptance. Kishimi and Koga argue that the need for recognition from others often leads to a life dictated by external expectations, thereby stifling personal growth. They challenge readers to cultivate the courage to be disliked, a radical notion in a society that often prioritizes conformity and seeks validation through social acceptance.The authors delve into the importance of embracing one’s individuality and the role of community in fostering personal development. They advocate for accountability to oneself and the value of authentic relationships over superficial connections. This perspective is particularly relevant in today’s hyper-connected world, where social media often blurs the lines between genuine interactions and performative relationships.Moreover, the book resonates with biblical principles, emphasizing themes of personal responsibility and the transformative power of self-acceptance. Readers familiar with spiritual teachings will find profound connections between Adlerian psychology and scriptures that promote love, understanding, and community engagement.The dialogue format maintains a refreshing pace, inviting readers into a philosophical inquiry that prompts introspection. With each turn of the page, Kishimi and Koga’s insights provoke thought and reflection, offering practical guidance that readers can apply to their own lives.While some may find the ideas challenging or even counterintuitive, “The Courage to Be Disliked” ultimately serves as an empowering manifesto for anyone seeking to break free from the shackles of societal expectations. It encourages a shift in mindset, proposing that true happiness lies in the acceptance of oneself rather than the pursuit of external approval.In conclusion, “The Courage to Be Disliked” is not merely a self-help book; it is a philosophical treatise that compels readers to rethink their understanding of self-worth, relationships, and personal freedom. Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a curious newcomer to these concepts, this book is a valuable addition to your library—an enlightening read that promises to foster growth and enhance one’s journey towards self-discovery.
Lizbeth –
あ –
Absolutely amazing book and a discovery for me about Adler’s psychology and theories
Maryam –
Hard to apply in life but why not , interesting facts , love it 😍
Aditya369 –
“The Courage to Be Disliked” by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga is a thought-provoking and transformative book that challenges conventional wisdom about happiness, interpersonal relationships, and personal growth. Drawing on the principles of Alfred Adler, a renowned psychologist, this book presents a refreshing and liberating perspective on life.The authors introduce the Socratic dialogue format, where a young man engages in conversations with a philosopher, challenging his beliefs and assumptions. Through this dialogue, readers are invited to explore their own deeply ingrained beliefs and societal expectations that hinder personal growth and hinder their ability to live a fulfilling life.One of the most significant takeaways from this book is the concept of “separation of tasks.” It teaches that individuals have the power to choose their own thoughts, attitudes, and actions independently of the past or the expectations of others. This notion empowers readers to take responsibility for their own happiness and break free from the victim mentality. It encourages personal agency and self-acceptance, emphasizing that it is possible to live authentically, regardless of external circumstances.Another valuable aspect of “The Courage to Be Disliked” is its exploration of interpersonal relationships. The book challenges the common belief that our past experiences and the behavior of others determine our present relationships. Instead, it argues that we have the ability to form new connections and choose how we interact with others, enabling us to foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships. This emphasis on individual responsibility and mutual respect provides a fresh perspective on the dynamics of human interaction.Furthermore, the book delves into the nature of happiness. It suggests that happiness is not dependent on external achievements or validation from others but stems from an internal sense of purpose and contentment. By embracing one’s true self and pursuing one’s own goals and desires, readers are encouraged to find a profound sense of fulfillment and joy.One of the strengths of this book is its accessibility. The Socratic dialogue format makes complex psychological concepts easily understandable and relatable. The conversations between the young man and the philosopher are engaging, thought-provoking, and provide practical examples that readers can apply to their own lives.However, it is important to note that “The Courage to Be Disliked” is not a quick fix or a step-by-step guide to happiness. It challenges deeply ingrained beliefs and requires introspection and personal reflection. Readers may need to revisit certain passages or concepts to fully grasp their meaning and integrate them into their lives.In comparison to other self-help and personal development books, “The Courage to Be Disliked” stands out due to its unique approach and philosophical foundation. It encourages readers to question societal norms, overcome their fears of social disapproval, and embrace their own uniqueness. While the book may not resonate with everyone, those willing to explore unconventional ideas will find it a transformative and empowering read.In conclusion, “The Courage to Be Disliked” is a remarkable book that challenges readers to rethink their beliefs about happiness, relationships, and personal growth. Its profound insights, presented through engaging dialogues, offer a liberating perspective on life. If you are open to exploring new ideas and are ready to take responsibility for your own happiness, this book can be a catalyst for personal transformation.
Virago –
I found the format of conversational print to be off-putting at first, but once I became used to the style I came to love this book. Habit/thought/behaviour challenging. Great addition to my library.