During my last coffee chat with Gretchen Rubin, I was completely captivated by an engaging quiz she conducted to unveil which of her Four Tendencies—Obliger, Questioner, Upholder, or Rebel—I resonate with. Turns out, I’m an Obliger, and we delved into how this tendency shapes my ability to create and maintain habits. Her latest book, Better Than Before, is brimming with insightful strategies tailored to each personality type, helping readers cultivate good habits and eliminate the bad ones. It’s the kind of transformative read that people will eagerly share with friends and family as they discover their own tendencies and the impact they have on everyday life.
To celebrate her new release, we decided to pose our own set of questions to Gretchen—the Mid Questionnaire. While it may not reveal deep insights into her character, it definitely provided a delightful glimpse into her world.
- What’s something you’ve been eager to learn?
For quite some time now, I’ve had this secret desire to start my own podcast. Exciting, right? - What’s a trip you’ve always wanted to take?
I’ve been longing to revisit London; it’s a city I truly admire. - Who deserves a thank you note from you?
I owe a huge thank-you to Jamie Lark, who is the chief content officer of a new podcasting network. When he was brainstorming potential podcasters, he thought of me, and I was absolutely thrilled! I’ve just launched “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” a podcast focused on happiness and good habits alongside my sister, Emma Craft. It has been such a joy, and Jamie has made the whole process incredibly smooth and fulfilling. Thanks, Jamie! - Imagine you’re 12 years old. What’s your Friday night like?
Didn’t Friday night used to be all about The Love Boat and Fantasy Island? If I recall correctly, that’s exactly how I spent mine. - Who was the first person you made a mix tape for, and what did it include?
I’ll admit it was for myself, specifically a running playlist. I loved putting together mixes filled with upbeat tracks that made my runs enjoyable. - What childhood story are you tired of hearing at family gatherings?
Every Christmas, my sister and I would pick our own ornaments for our tree. I still cherish every one of them. However, one year, I tried to rearrange my sister’s glass “partridge in a pear tree” ornament to give mine a better spot. I dropped it, and it shattered. I’ve heard about that incident for ages—though it’s now become a sort of funny family tradition. - What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
“Just be Gretchen.” - What’s your specialty in the kitchen?
I whip up the best scrambled eggs you’ll ever taste. - Do you have a motto or theme song?
My motto is “Be Gretchen.” I also believe that “The days are long, but the years are short.” Of everything I’ve created, my one-minute video “The Years Are Short” seems to resonate the most with viewers. - What’s your go-to feel-good movie or TV show?
The Office (American version) never fails to make me laugh, and it gets funnier every time I watch it!
Originally published on March 17, 2005, this article highlights the joys of understanding oneself and the importance of gratitude and connection in our lives.
For those intrigued by navigating personal journeys like Gretchen, you might find useful insights in our other posts, such as this one on home insemination. And if you’re considering starting a family, check out Cryobaby’s home insemination kit as a reliable resource. For detailed guidance about IVF and other fertility options, visit NHS’s excellent resource.
In summary, Gretchen Rubin emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself, expressing gratitude, and even mastering the art of scrambled eggs. Her insights encourage us to appreciate our unique qualities and the connections we forge with others.