Happier with Gretchen Rubin

A Little Happier: Mega-Star Taylor Swift Chooses the Right Tool to Suit Her Work

Aug 18, 2025
Discover how superstar musician Taylor Swift categorizes her songwriting tools into three imaginary pens, showcasing the joy that suitable tools can bring to creativity. The discussion highlights how the right instruments boost productivity and enjoyment in work. Listeners will also learn practical strategies for achieving work-life balance through effective use of different devices. Tune in for an inspiring take on enhancing focus while creating!
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INSIGHT

Right Tools Make Work Joyful

  • Having the right tool raises the pleasure and effectiveness of work by matching form to function.
  • Taylor Swift's imaginary pen categories show how tool metaphors shape creative tone and approach.
ANECDOTE

Taylor Swift's Three Pen Categories

  • Taylor Swift sorts lyrics by the imaginary writing tool she pictured when writing them.
  • She classifies songs as fountain pen, glitter gel pen, or quill to capture distinct emotional styles.
INSIGHT

Pen Types Map To Emotional Tone

  • Each pen category maps to a musical and emotional texture: detailed modern stories, bouncy carefree songs, and old-fashioned letter-like lyrics.
  • Using these labels helps Swift and listeners recognize and curate different moods and storytelling modes.
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