3.28.2015

Book Report: The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin


I read this book a couple of years ago, reread it recently, and enjoyed it as much as the first time. Gretchen Rubin is very relatable and her whole project is inspiring. One of my favorite parts of the book is when she writes her own "Commandments" and "Secrets of Adulthood."

A couple of hers that have stuck with me:

  • Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good
  • You can choose what you do; you can't choose what you like to do

And I wrote a few of my own:

  • It's more important to be kind than to be funny (you almost always regret the cheap laugh)
  • Bring snacks & always have gum
  • You get your best work done before 1pm
  • If you need to get something done, turn off gchat and turn on something with a beat
  • Most of the time, you're doing alright
  • Be at least 15 minutes early to any interview/important meeting
  • A night in at home can totally count as "plans" if it needs to
  • Just say hello
  • Breathe 
My favorite quote from this reading was this: "Enthusiasm is a form of social courage."
YES. It takes courage to be excited about something, without reservation or worry of appearing uncool. But the world is better, and I know I'm happier, when I'm enthusiastic about life.

P.S. I emailed Gretchen Rubin about one of her blog posts a few weeks ago and she sent me a very sweet reply last week. Classy lady.

P.P.S. Unrelated, but is anyone else watching The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt? I know it's got some PG-13 humor, but I can't.stop.watching.