20 Secrets of Adulthood

20 Secrets of Adulthood

Author: The Art of Manliness May 6, 2025 Duration: 50:34

Figuring out the pitfalls and best practices of adulthood can be tricky. It's helpful to have some pearls of wisdom to guide you along the way.

My guest today has spent decades collecting these kinds of helpful truths and has crafted her own guiding mantras of maturity.

Gretchen Rubin is the author of numerous bestselling books, including The Happiness Project, and her latest, Secrets of Adulthood. Today on the show, Gretchen shares how she came to write hundreds of aphorisms on how to navigate life, and we dig into some of my favorites of these concise, sage sayings. Amongst many topics, we discuss why "happiness doesn't always make us feel happy," the best strategy for changing ourselves, a very useful heuristic for making decisions, why you should wear a favorite sweater more often, and even why big top tables at restaurants are one of my pet peeves.

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You'll find conversations here that cut through the noise, focusing on what it means to live a substantive life. The Art of Manliness features in-depth discussions with historians, authors, coaches, and philosophers, exploring timeless ideas and practical skills. Each episode is built on the belief that character and competence are cultivated through deliberate practice and reflection. Rather than offering quick fixes, this podcast delves into the principles behind everything from building physical resilience and fostering deeper friendships to navigating ethical dilemmas and managing time with purpose. The conversations are grounded, often pulling lessons from history, classic literature, and the firsthand experiences of remarkable individuals. It’s a resource for anyone interested in the ongoing project of self-improvement and understanding their role in society and culture. By focusing on actionable wisdom over abstract theory, the show provides a steady stream of thoughtful content that challenges listeners to reconsider their daily habits and long-term goals. Tune in for a consistently engaging blend of the philosophical and the intensely practical, all aimed at helping you develop a more intentional and effective approach to your life's work and relationships.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Art of Manliness
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