Better Than Before: What I Learned About Making and Breaking Habits--to Sleep More, Quit Sugar, Procrastinate Less, and Generally Build a Happier Life

by Gretchen Rubin

When I say “I’m stressed out,” I blur the connection between the way I act and the way I feel. So, instead of saying “I’m stressed,” I press myself to identify exactly what’s bothering me. “I work at home, so I feel as though I should be working all the time.” “I’m working with someone who drains my energy.” “I want us to have fun family adventures, but we all need a lot of downtime at home, too.” “I can’t decide what opportunities to pursue.” “My laptop isn’t syncing properly with my desktop.” “I get flustered when both my daughters talk at me at the same time.” “I feel awkward in this social situation.” Once I’ve spelled out the problem in words, the greater clarity usually helps me to spot a solution.