Happier with Gretchen Rubin

More Happier: Do You Specifically Recollect Yourself at Different Ages?

Nov 29, 2025
Explore the intriguing question of how we view ourselves at different ages and the essence of feeling like the same person throughout life. Discover the joys of plant care, with a humorous twist on orchid maintenance. Dive into themed book recommendations inspired by Lena Dunham and the allure of rediscovering classic novels. Lastly, reflect on the irony of caring for people we may not particularly like, revealing unexpected life truths that can enhance our happiness.
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ANECDOTE

Orchids As Low-Fuss Elegance

  • Gretchen bought orchids to spruce up her house for a gathering and admired their unusual colors and longevity.
  • She finds orchids low-maintenance and aesthetically elevated compared with bouquets.
INSIGHT

Overnurturing Reflects Us More Than Their Needs

  • People often overcare for plants and pets, feeding or watering more than needed for satisfaction rather than need.
  • That impulse reflects a broader nurturing pleasure separate from the actual requirements of care.
INSIGHT

Consistent Core Self Over Time

  • Gretchen and Elizabeth both feel a consistent core self across ages, not distinct age-based selves.
  • Many people assume others change more than they do until it's pointed out otherwise.
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