Rubin

Do it

The Happiness Project

What if you could change your life--without changing your life? Gretchen had a good marriage, two healthy daughters, and work she loved--but one day, stuck on a city bus, she realized that time was flashing by, and she wasn’t thinking enough about the things that really mattered. “I should have a happiness project,” she decided. She spent the next year test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific studies, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Each month, she pursued a different set of resolutions: go to sleep earlier, quit nagging, forget about results, or take time to be silly. Bit by bit, she began to appreciate and amplify the happiness that already existed in her life. Written with humour and insight, Gretchen’s story will inspire you to start your own happiness project. Now in a beautiful, expanded edition, Gretchen offers a wealth of new material including happiness paradoxes and practical tips on many daily matters: being a more light-hearted parent, sticking to a fitness routine, getting your sweetheart to do chores without nagging, coping when you forget someone’s name and more.

Summary of Rick Rubin's The Creative Act

Get the Summary of Rick Rubin's The Creative Act in 20 minutes. Please note: This is a summary & not the original book. Rick Rubin's "The Creative Act" delves into the essence of creativity, which he sees as an innate human trait that extends beyond traditional arts. He posits that we are all artists, shaping our experiences and perceptions, and that the universe is a source of ceaseless creativity. Rubin suggests that humans are guided by this creative energy, with artists acting as conduits for universal messages. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating openness and awareness to tap into this cosmic rhythm, which allows for a steady flow of creativity. Rubin describes the creative process as a selection and reshaping of experiences, influenced by spirituality and the belief in a larger realm of possibilities. He encourages staying receptive to everyday inspiration and broadening awareness through simple rituals. Rubin also discusses the subjective nature of creative environments, the role of self-doubt and imperfections in art, and the importance of recognizing and challenging one's creative boundaries. He advocates for active listening, patience, and embracing the ecstatic as a guide in the creative process. Rubin underscores the significance of sharing one's work, the balance between experimentation and finishing, and the value of breaking free from rules and conventions. He stresses that true creativity is not driven by external validation but by a pure creative intent, and that art is a personal expression that transcends competition. Rubin concludes by highlighting the importance of trusting the creative process, embracing spontaneity, and recognizing the interconnectedness of all things in the pursuit of artistic expression...