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Everyone wants to be happier.
Most people overcomplicate it.
But what if the best solutions aren’t new, innovative, or groundbreaking?
When I interviewed happiness expert Gretchen Rubin for my podcast she said something that stopped me in my tracks:
“The important truths about happiness are too important to be new.”
That hit me hard.
In a world obsessed with hacks, shortcuts, and the latest trends, we often ignore the timeless principles that actually work.
The Wisdom We Already Know
Here’s the thing about happiness, we’re not lacking information. We’re lacking implementation.
Gretchen has spent years researching happiness, writing bestsellers, and speaking to millions. But her most powerful insights aren’t complicated breakthroughs.
They’re reminders of what we already know deep down.
Three Timeless Principles for Happiness
During our conversation, three principles stood out that you can apply immediately:
1. Prioritize Relationships
Strong, genuine connections aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential.
The Harvard Study of Adult Development—one of the longest-running studies on happiness—found that relationships are the strongest predictor of well-being. Not career achievements. Not wealth. Not fame.
Your move today:
- Send that text you’ve been putting off
- Schedule a call with someone you miss
- Ask for support when you need it
- Offer help without being asked
2. Take Care of Your Body
Before blaming your mindset, check your physical habits.
Sleep deprivation, lack of movement, and physical discomfort affect your brain chemistry more than most “mindset shifts” ever could.
Your move today:
- Go to bed 30 minutes earlier
- Take a 20-minute walk (instead of scrolling for motivation)
- Drink water first thing in the morning
- Stand up and stretch right now (seriously, do it)
3. Honor Your Nature
Are you a morning person trying to be productive at 9 PM?
A creative forced into rigid structures?
An introvert saying yes to every social invitation?
Stop working against yourself. Understanding your true nature (and designing your life around it) creates sustainable happiness.
Your move today:
- Identify one way you’re fighting your natural tendencies
- Make one small adjustment to honor who you really are
- Pay attention to when you feel most energized and at peace
A Simple Prompt for You
What’s one timeless principle about happiness that you already know but aren’t fully implementing in your life?
Try this AI prompt to dig deeper:
“Here’s something I know contributes to happiness but I’m not prioritizing: [insert your answer]. What are three small, practical steps I could take this week to implement this knowledge?”
Want More Timeless Wisdom?
This conversation with Gretchen was part of my podcast, The Signal by Fiverr, where I talk with experts about success, productivity, and living better.
You can listen to my full interview with Gretchen Rubin wherever you get your podcasts.
Remember:
The path to happiness isn’t about discovering something new.
It’s about returning to what matters.
Stay Savage,
Terry
PS: Which of these three principles resonated most with you? I’d love to know, reply to this email and share your thoughts. And if you’re looking for more conversations that cut through the noise, follow The Signal by Fiverr on your favorite podcast platform.
Find me on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, or book a 1:1 call.
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