Secrets of Adulthood

The right idea, invoked at the right time, can change our lives. Drawing from her deep research on happiness—and her own personal challenges—Gretchen Rubin uncovers the Secrets of Adulthood that help us navigate life’s complexities with clarity and compassion. To share these insights, she turns to the timeless art of the aphorism—conveying big truths in just a few words.

Whether you’re stuck in indecision, facing a major change, resisting temptation, or trying to understand the behavior of someone close to you, the right aphorism can offer guidance and comfort. From tackling procrastination to embracing joy, Secrets of Adulthood offers a treasure trove of wise, witty, and eye-opening reflections such as:

• “Recognize that, like sleeping with a big dog in a small bed, things that are uncomfortable can also be comforting.”

• “Accept yourself, and expect more from yourself.”

• “What can be done at any time is often done at no time.”

Secrets of Adulthood is the perfect companion for anyone facing a life transition—whether it’s graduation, a career shift, marriage, or just the daily puzzle of being human. These deceptively simple phrases will help you see life more clearly and live it more fully.