03/20/2026
The 8 Rules of Happiness:
1 Be Yourself: Be true to your own nature rather than trying to be who others expect you to be.
2. Let It Go: Don’t get worked up over small annoyances or cling to anger, resentment, and grudges.
3. Act the Way You Want to Feel: We often feel because of the way we act. If you act kindly even when you feel resentful, you will begin to feel more kindly.
4. Be Polite and Be Fair: This rule covers almost everything in life, especially when navigating professional or personal transitions.
5. Enjoy the Process: If you focus on enjoying the journey rather than just the destination, you can let go of the need for specific outcomes.
6. No Calculation: No “keeping score” in relationships. Avoid the mindset of “I did this for you, so now you owe me,” which damages marriages and friendships.
7. Expect More of Yourself: Choose to behave better and let go of negative cycles like scorekeeping.
8. There Is Only Love: When dealing with difficult people, refuse to let them get under your skin. By choosing not to engage in gossip or negative thoughts, you protect your own emotional state.
Choose one rule each day this week. In the morning, set an intention: “Today I will practice ‘Let It Go.’” In the evening, reflect: “How did I live this rule today?”
- Gretchen Rubin
