recently read // the happiness project.


{ “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin }

I’m sure you’ve heard of this book by now, it’s made its way across the blog world over the past few months, but I was still hesitant to make the purchase.  As I searched on Amazon to make the purchase, I couldn’t get over the “self help” category that it was in – did I really need a self help book?  But as I continued to see “The Happiness Project” pop up on my favorite blogs, I finally decided to take the plunge.

Happiness is something that I continuously struggle with.  While I’m beyond grateful of everything I have accomplished so far, my family and friends and even all of the tangible items I have to show for myself, it just never seems to be enough.  It’s not a matter of comparing myself to anyone else or of jealousy, it’s just the constant feeling of wanting more and already being a step ahead thinking about what’s next, rather than savoring the moment and feeling happy.

When the new year rolled around one of my major goals for this year was to focus on being happy more, feeling satisfied and slowing down a bit.  “The Happiness Project” has been not only a great read, but has given me a new perspective on things following the author’s twelve areas of focus.  The story is told through the author’s own experiences, which makes it read like a novel full of life lessons (I had expected a stereotypical “self help” writing style with a very dry, scholarly voice).  I think it’s a book that everyone could benefit from – even the smallest changes to your every day could make the world of difference overall.