If you’ve ever felt torn between wanting to improve yourself and just wanting to be… this episode is for you.

I sat down with Gretchen Rubin—best-selling author, researcher, and self-knowledge expert—to unpack some of her most powerful insights from her book, “Secrets of Adulthood.” We’re talking about real-life advice you can actually use… the kind that makes you go, “Oh, that’s me.”

👉 No one-size-fits-all life hacks. 👉 No endless to-do lists. 👉 Just honest, practical wisdom about how to be a little more you—and a little happier in the process.

🎙️ What You’ll Hear:

Gretchen’s favorite secrets of adulthood—like why “no tool fits every hand” is a game-changer for simplifying your life
The surprising link between self-knowledge and decluttering (yes, your home and your mind!)
How to stop “arrival fallacy” thinking—where we wait for someday to feel happier or enough
Tips for balancing ambition with acceptance… because love is unconditional (and demanding!)
Why self-awareness is the missing piece to everything from better mornings to real calm

✨ Why It Matters:

So often, we’re bombarded with advice that doesn’t fit our lives or personalities. Gretchen and I dive deep into how to find what actually works for you—and why knowing yourself is the ultimate clutter cure.

Because when you truly know yourself, you can build a life that feels lighter, calmer, and more aligned with what matters most.

🔗 Links & Resources:

Grab Gretchen’s book, Secrets of Adulthood (https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Adulthood-Simple-Truths-Complex/dp/0593800737), for even more bite-sized wisdom you’ll want to stick on your fridge (link in show notes!)
Love this kind of conversation? Join my free weekly newsletter, Ready, Set, Simplify (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify), for bite-sized tips and pep talks to help you declutter your home and your mind

👉 Ready for some of the best life advice you’ll ever hear?

Hit play and let’s simplify—inside and out.

309: Life Advice You'll Actually Use Gretchen Rubins Secrets of Adulthood 40:07 Share

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309: Life Advice You'll Actually Use Gretchen Rubins Secrets of Adulthood