During my last coffee chat with Gretchen Rubin, she captivated me with a fascinating quiz designed to reveal which of her Four Tendencies—Obliger, Questioner, Upholder, or Rebel—I embodied. As an Obliger, I discovered how my tendency influences my ability to create and maintain habits. In her latest book, Better Than Before, Gretchen provides a wealth of strategies tailored to help us cultivate positive habits and eliminate negative ones based on our unique personalities. This transformative book is sure to be a gift that many will share with friends and family, as identifying one’s tendency and recognizing others’ can significantly impact our everyday lives.
To mark the launch of her new book, we devised our own fun questionnaire for Gretchen, dubbed the Mid Questionnaire. While it may not disclose specific personality traits, it certainly offers us a deeper glimpse into her world.
Mid Questionnaire
- What’s a skill you aspire to learn?
I’ve always secretly wanted to start a podcast. - Which destination do you dream of visiting?
I’d love to revisit London, a city I greatly admire. - Who deserves a thank-you note from you?
I owe a heartfelt thank-you to Mark Leland, the chief content officer of a new podcasting network. He initially suggested I start a podcast, and I was thrilled. I recently launched “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” where I discuss happiness and healthy habits alongside my sister, Elizabeth. It’s been an incredible journey, thanks to Mark’s support! - Picture yourself at 12 years old. What are you doing on a Friday night?
If I recall correctly, Friday nights were reserved for The Love Boat and Fantasy Island—those were my go-to shows. - Who did you create your first mixtape for, and what songs were included?
Honestly, it was for myself—a mix of running songs. I have always enjoyed curating the perfect soundtrack for my runs. - What family story do you wish would fade from memory?
Every Christmas, my sister and I selected our own ornaments for the tree. I have kept every single one. One year, I accidentally broke her “partridge in a pear tree” ornament while trying to rearrange them, and I’ve heard about it ever since. Though the teasing has become a cherished holiday ritual at this point. - What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
“Stay true to yourself.” - What culinary dish do you believe you excel at?
I make outstanding scrambled eggs. - Do you have a guiding motto or theme song?
“Be yourself” is my personal motto. I also resonate with the saying, “The days are long, but the years are short.” Of everything I’ve created, a one-minute video titled “The Years Are Short” has struck a chord with many. - Which movie or TV show always lifts your spirits?
The American version of The Office—it gets funnier with each viewing!
This article was originally published on March 17, 2005.
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In summary, Gretchen Rubin shares valuable insights into her personal and professional life, revealing her aspirations, gratitude, and even her culinary skills. Her journey emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and the power of positive habits.