Author Gretchen Rubin decided to start The Happiness Project, when after examining her life realized that although things are very good she isn’t as content and happy as she should be. She decided she needed to take a step back and learn how to appreciate life, and to define what happiness is to her. She wanted to let go of anxiety, guilt, and the never-ending “to do” list, so she embarked on this experiment and made a list of twelve “happiness projects”. She devoted one month to each of the twelve projects, which ranged from “Boost Energy” and getting more sleep to eating better and exercising to “Contemplating the Heavens” and becoming more spiritual by keeping a Gratitude Journal. She wrote her discoveries during each project and how they effected her happiness level. During one of the twelve projects she started a blog about her project.
While reading this book, I did a few of of the tasks the author does in search her “happiest self”. One project is devoted to organizing her life and getting rid of clutter, which seems to weigh her down. I love any excuse to de-clutter, so I got rid of 100 or so DVD and CD covers and put all the discs in a cd book, recycled 100 or so old mags/papers, organized all of my kitchen cupboards and drawers, and will begin the gigantic task of organizing my clothes (that could take a month). I have always appreciated order and organization in the home and believe it is a key to feeling less stressed. If the whole task seems too daunting try and do one drawer or area per day or week. I also was already in the habit of keeping a gratitude journal, which I downloaded right to my iPhone. Keeping a gratitude journal is so simple but helps you realize all the little things (like my sons laughter) that can be such a big source of happiness. One of my favorite things in the book were the quotes. Two of my particular favorites was this one by Samuel Johnson, “As the Spanish Proverb says, He, who would bring home the wealth of the Indies, must carry the wealth of the Indies with him.” And this quote written by Epicurus, which I believe sums up the quest for happiness very well, “We must exercise ourselves in the things which bring happiness, since, if that be present, we have everything, and if that be absent, all of our actions are directed toward attaining it.”
While Elizabeth Gilbert’s quest for happiness in East Pray Love is more “me”, I think this book’s practical approach on finding happiness through a series of little projects will resonate with readers and help them in their own quest for happiness.
OMG I have to get this book – having depression is naff and I need to be happy – and this house could definitely do with a de-cluttering session or 10!
I love the idea of this book. I think that new Year’s resolutions often fall flat because they are huge and daunting and don’t have timelines tied to them…other than possibly “I will…by Christmas”.
From your review, it seems that this book helps to break down resolutions or goals to small bites and encourages readers to take manageable steps to improve their lives and those of people around them – Me Likey!
Thanks for a review on a book I’d love to get my paws on.
Erin
There is nothing that motivates me more than seeing the results of a ‘post-organization clean-out’ be it clothes, kitchen, office, or studio. I spent yesterday organizing my office and feel as if my thoughts are more organized today. I love the idea of a gratitude journal… thank you for that inspiration. I have much to be grateful for and it is worthy of reflection. Life can indeed be stressful with moments of pain and deep sorrow, but I have always gone by the philosophy that if I live a happy life, I will be happy.
I think organizing would be hard for me. As a mom, student, and worker it would be hard to make time for it, but it would be worth it in the end. Time to get organizing! I’d love a copy of the book
Eat, Pray, Love is my all time favorite. I would love to read this book as well.
Clutter is one of the biggest issues I’m dealing with right now. I live in a tiny San Francisco apartment and it’s packed full of who-knows-what! I work/write from home and the clutter is preventing me from concentrating on my work!
OH great review. I think this is exactly the book I need to read at this point in my life.
This sounds like a very uplifting read and think I would enjoy. Think it should be in my book collection!
Been hearing a lot of about this book The Happiness Project. Will have to check it out.
Remarkable website, I observed just what I wanted on the net.