Happier with Gretchen Rubin

We discuss the fun of reading psychological thrillers as well as the delights of taking a New York City ferry. We also talk about the bittersweet pleasure of passing a family milestone, and (again) why pre-orders are such a source …

We talk about the fact that while most people have given up their New Year’sresolutions by February 28, we can celebrate that day as “Determination Day” tostay engaged with our aims. A listener explains how to start a “no-homeworkbook club,” …

Football player Jaylen Waddle has created a “touchdown celebration” that’s funny, humble, simple, and a clever play on his distinctive name.Get in touch: @gretchenrubin; @elizabethcraft; [email protected] in touch on Instagram: @GretchenRubin & @LizCraftGet the podcast show notes by email every …

We talk about why it’s useful to identify and work through nagging conflicts (e.g.,whether and when to make the bed, load the dishwasher, get off your phone).We also discuss a listener’s hack that makes it easier to say in touch …

In a striking story from her memoir Just Kids, Patti Smith describes why she decided to cut her own hair and how that decision changed her life.Get in touch: @gretchenrubin; @elizabethcraft; [email protected] in touch on Instagram: @GretchenRubin & @LizCraftGet the …

We discuss two questions: whether parenthood has changed us and whether we ask ourselves rhetorical questions. Then we realize we’re not entirely clear on the definition of “rhetorical question.” We also talk about tablescapes and relationships.Get in touch: @gretchenrubin; @elizabethcraft; …

We talk about why it’s a good idea to aim to show up, and why it’s helpful toestablish a code phrase with your sweetheart to let them know, “Change thesubject.” We also talk about how to avoid arguments about who …

In an old story, a stone magically makes a soup out of water—but you do have to add carrots, beef, cabbage, onions, milk, salt, pepper, and potatoes. This story reminds me to be wary when someone offers a quick fix …

We talk about why instead of thinking about our future-selves, we might think about our past-selves. Also, a listener suggests a lovely family Valentine’s Day tradition, and we ask ourselves the question, “Am I an over-estimator or an under-estimator?” Get …

Writer Betty MacDonald’s memoir reminds me that even as adults, to be happier, we should seek out experiences that will give us the “wonderful, joyous, childhood feeling of expectancy.”Get in touch: @gretchenrubin; @elizabethcraft; [email protected] in touch on Instagram: @GretchenRubin & …