The last time I caught up with Gretchen Rubin over coffee, she captivated me with a fun quiz that revealed which of her Four Tendencies—Obliger, Questioner, Upholder, or Rebel—I aligned with. As it turns out, I’m an Obliger, which plays a significant role in how I form and maintain habits. Her latest book, Better Than Before, is brimming with insights on how to cultivate positive habits and eliminate negative ones based on individual personality types. It’s the kind of transformative read that encourages people to share it widely; understanding your tendency—and recognizing those of others—can profoundly influence our everyday experiences.
To mark the release of her new book, we decided to put Gretchen through our own version of a quiz—the Mid Questionnaire. While it doesn’t dive deep into personality traits, it certainly offers a glimpse into her world.
Mid Questionnaire with Gretchen Rubin
- What’s something you’ve always wanted to learn?
For a while now, I’ve secretly dreamed of launching a podcast! - What trip have you been longing to take?
I would love to revisit London; it’s a city that truly inspires me. - Who deserves a thank-you note from you?
I owe a heartfelt note to Sam Turner, who is now the chief content officer at a fantastic new podcasting network. He was instrumental in encouraging me to start my own podcast, “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” which explores happiness and habits alongside my sister, Liz Craft. It’s been an exhilarating journey, and I can’t thank Sam enough for making it all possible! - What did you do as a 12-year-old on a Friday night?
If memory serves me right, I was glued to the TV for The Love Boat and Fantasy Island—classic Friday night entertainment! - Who was the recipient of your first mixtape? What tracks did you include?
Honestly, the first mixtape was for me, specifically curated for my running sessions. I found joy in discovering new songs that were perfect for a good workout. - What childhood story do you dread hearing at family gatherings?
Each Christmas, my sister and I would choose our own ornaments for the tree. I still treasure those memories. However, I once accidentally shattered her delicate “partridge in a pear tree” ornament while trying to rearrange them. My sister has brought it up at every family gathering ever since, turning it into a light-hearted holiday tradition! - What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
Just be yourself—Be Gretchen. - What dish do you excel at making?
I whip up the best scrambled eggs—it’s my specialty! - What’s your personal motto? Or do you have a theme song?
My motto is “Be Gretchen,” paired with the reminder that “the days are long, but the years are short.” Of all my work, I believe my one-minute video, “The Years Are Short,” resonates the most with people. - What movie or TV show lifts your spirits?
The Office (American version) never fails to make me laugh, no matter how many times I watch it.
This article was originally published on March 17, 2005.
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Summary: In a delightful conversation with Gretchen Rubin, we explored her latest book, which delves into how personality shapes habit formation. Through a fun questionnaire, we discovered her aspirations, cherished memories, and even her culinary skills in making scrambled eggs. Rubin’s motto, “Be Gretchen,” serves as a reminder to embrace authenticity in our daily lives.
Keyphrase: Gretchen Rubin habits
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