May 23, 2025

Fresh Take: Gretchen Rubin on Life's Simple Truths

Do we have to learn life's hardest lessons over and over, or is there a way to easily access the important advice we've heard before? Gretchen Rubin, author of the new book SECRETS OF ADULTHOOD, discusses the power of the aphorism.

If we impart the life lessons we've learned to our children, does that mean they won't make the same mistakes? Gretchen Rubin, author of the new book SECRETS OF ADULTHOOD, discusses how aphorisms provide us with a particular kind of wisdom that stays with us, often forever.

Gretchen Rubin is one of today’s most influential observers of happiness and human nature. She’s the author of many NYT-bestselling books.

Gretchen and Amy discuss:

  • Why Gretchen chose the aphorism format for her book
  • Why Gretchen prefers the term "open door" to "empty nester"
  • Particular aphorisms that ring especially true for Amy and Gretchen
  • What Gretchen hopes people will get out of the book
  • What the fluency heuristic is—and how rhymes can win parenting battles

  • How brief sayings can provoke deep reflection and even disagreement

  • The surprising dangers of “productive” procrastination

  • Why the opposite of a profound truth can also be true

  • How everyday routines and mini-quests (like collecting globes or visiting museums) can increase happiness

Here's where you can find Gretchen:

 

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