Gretchen Rubin is the New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Project. After reading her book and applying some of her practical ideas, James was hooked. For example, he discovered that after six seconds of continuous hugging, the body releases oxytocin – the feel-good juice. He decided to try this on Claudia the other day during a little argument they were having, and it totally worked. The Happiness Project was born out of a realization that disregarding happiness can lead to a lack of appreciation for life. Gretchen dedicated an entire year to being happy and she talks with James about how the results of that decision have completely changed her life One of the ways Gretchen and James are similar is that they both like to make lists. For him, it was about becoming an idea machine – by coming up with 10 new ideas every day and for Gretchen, is was about finding happiness by figuring what made her happy and unhappy. Start your own happiness project right now by making a list from these two questions: How could I be happier? What could I do that would make me happier? Gretchen says, "Happier people are more interested in the problems of others." "By being happy ourselves we are able to turn outward and focus on the needs of others." Discover the two main factors of developing a happier life from one of the most thought-provoking and influential writers on habits and happiness. Gretchen also has a new book coming out on March 17 called Better Than Before and it's about mastering the habits of our everyday lives. Official website: gretchenrubin. com. Follow Gretchen Rubin on Twitter and Facebook. In this episode: Strategies for how to look for happiness The happiness challenge The habits we need to form in order to find happiness The importance of boosting energy and vitality Triadic closure Why habits make everything easier How extreme personalities can thrive Why some people are scornful of those who exude unusual amounts of happiness How thinking about others can spark happiness Why selfish people are unhappy The downward spiral of rumination Removing anxiety by taking action Appreciating life and the small things Importance of self-command How The Happiness Project began Habit – a concrete action that is observable. How to sit down and figure out what makes you happy The importance of a sleep routine Overcoming excuses The correlation of happiness and growth