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The Happiness Project

By: Gretchen Rubin
Narrated by: Gretchen Rubin
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Publisher's summary

#1 New York Times Bestseller

“An enlightening, laugh-aloud read. . . . Filled with open, honest glimpses into [Rubin’s] real life, woven together with constant doses of humor.”—Christian Science Monitor

Gretchen Rubin’s year-long experiment to discover how to create true happiness. Drawing on cutting-edge science, classical philosophy, and real-world examples, Rubin delivers an engaging, eminently relatable chronicle of transformation.

Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. “The days are long, but the years are short,” she realized. “Time is passing, and I’m not focusing enough on the things that really matter.” In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project.

In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Among other things, she found that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that money can help buy happiness, when spent wisely; that outer order contributes to inner calm; and that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference.

As an added bonus, this recording includes a sampling of Gretchen’s podcast, Happier With Gretchen Rubin. In this episode, "Choose the Bigger Life," Gretchen and her sister, Elizabeth Craft, discuss happiness, good habits, and whether Gretchen is going to get a dog.

©2009 Gretchen Rubin (P)2009 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

"Packed with fascinating facts about the science of happiness and rich examples of how she improves her life through changes small and big. The Happiness Project made me happier by just reading it." (Bookpage.com)

Featured Article: The Best Inspirational Podcasts Showcasing Humanity’s Hope, Heart, and Courage


Sometimes all it takes to get back on track or out of a funk is a new perspective, an encouraging pep talk, or a reminder that we're not alone in our struggles. Whether you're looking for a great self-help podcast to encourage personal growth or motivational podcasts showcasing stories about how your favorite writers, artists, and leaders got to where they are, you'll find something in our collection of outstanding inspirational podcasts.

What listeners say about The Happiness Project

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars

Loved it!

I have been wanting to read this book because it's mentioned in the Happier podcast quite often. I was not disappointed.

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    5 out of 5 stars

Thought provoking, inspiring and light hearted

I have been a Gretchen Rubin fan for a number of years, so am familiar with her voice, her mannerisms and some of the content. I really enjoyed this book and her vulnerability in sharing intimate details of her life in her quest to help other people.

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    5 out of 5 stars

The happiness Project

What a terrific time, spent considering all of the different aspects of happiness, and figuring out new ways to implement all kinds of different things to work towards more happiness in life. A joy to read.

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    5 out of 5 stars

VERY ENJOYABLE!

This book was very very good. I really enjoyed reading every word all the information is so incredibly easy to relate to erin comprehend. I love books that you can read and apply the information and get results quickly and easily. This is such a great book for anyone who wants to be happy but feels that they do not seem to possess the skills. I promise you if you give this book a try you will become happier.

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    4 out of 5 stars

Good insights

The author is structured and likes a plan just like I do. I appreciated her direct experiences and how she evolved her thinking in this area.

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    4 out of 5 stars

A life enhancing read

I stumbled upon this book whilst searching for ways to make my own life happier. Man am I glad I had Audible credits. It’s really a lovely, practical, helpful read if more happiness is something you’re hoping to implement in your life. I love how it’s not just theoretical but pragmatic, with step by step ideas on enhancing your happiness. I went out and bought the hard copy so I could re-read and make notes.

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Enthralling!

If you could sum up The Happiness Project in three words, what would they be?

I have read many books on this topic and Gretchen does an excellent job of summing up all the information that's out there on happiness. It was an excellent read and i look forward to trying some of her recommendations!

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    3 out of 5 stars

Great book!

Definitely a book I’ll re-read in the years to come! There is so much good information!

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Delivered as promised

What did you love best about The Happiness Project?

The real life practicality and the excitement to try this ourselves. We have since started our own happiness group to hold each other accountable and we love it!

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    5 out of 5 stars

Inspiring and very well researched

I recommend this book for anyone that wants to do something to actively change their life for better or need ideas to get out of a negative funk. Gretchen has great insights and quotes that will lift you up and her systematic approach is easy to replicate in different types of life style.

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