Whilst in Anthropologie I bought a book entitled 'The Happiness Project' by Gretchen Rubin. I have never read a book in this genre of a 'Self Help' book before and have always been rather dismissive of books that 'tell' us how to live our lives but as my daughter was already reading it and kept quoting parts of it I thought I would give it a try. The first quote I came across which struck a nerve was by Colette (I assume this is the authoress who wrote Gigi) 'What a wonderful life I've had, I wish I'd realised it sooner'. Well, that made me stop and think! Yes, I am having a wonderful life right now and I should appreciate every day.
The book is basically about a lady who realised that she wasn't as happy as she could be. She came to the conclusion that her life wouldn't change unless she did something about it so resolved to assign herself a year to find more happiness. Each month she pursued a different set of resolutions (one was start a daily blog); some worked, some didn't. I am really enjoying reading this and have found lots of tips on things to try. I already have a great life but, there is always room for improvement!
One of the Gretchen's resolutions was to have more fun. Everybody's idea of fun is different and this was no more apparent than when we visited 'Islands of Adventure' whilst in Florida. This would be many people's ideal day out but, sadly, not mine. It was nearing 100 degrees and very humid (I don't do excessive heat) and the majority wanted to visit 'The Wizarding World of Harry Potter'. I have never read a Harry Potter book nor seen a film, there were hoards of people, piped music everywhere and the worst day of my entire holiday. I don't like theme park rides so am always the one standing around holding other people's bags, sunglasses etc. I know, I shouldn't have gone but this is my point, that this is perceived to be everybody's idea of fun and there must be something wrong with me who didn't find it so. In the end my daughter and I left the men there and we found a cool cafe with a long, cool drink. Then I spied a 'Fossil' shop, went inside and treated myself to a new watch.
Now that's more like my idea of FUN!
What do you consider to be fun?
I really must get a copy of this book, I have seen it mentioned on quite a few blogs including a German one and all of them seem to give good reviews.
ReplyDeleteI idea of fun seems to to be more in line with yours. I much prefer walking in the country or by the sea and enjoying look at the scenery all for free.
Sarah x
Yes, I can recommend it. Me too with regards to walks etc.
DeleteSounds like a lovely book ;o)The watch is a sweet treat too. Very nice!
ReplyDeleteEnjoying a day of shopping & get togethers are a fun time for me. Family, nature & more...
Thanks! for sharing. Have a sunny week!
Blessings & Hugs,
Marlene
I hate theme parks too! x
ReplyDeleteWhat most people think is fun bores me silly. I hate amusement parks, shopping, malls, most tv programs, particularly reality shows.
ReplyDeleteThank you for join in my give away....you can also order the book in our webshop.....happy day love Ria...xxx
ReplyDeleteColette's quote is a great, simple reminder of thankfulness and appreciation. So often we are driven to goals and forget that the journey is the best part. Love your blog and your vintage!
ReplyDeleteBises,
Genie
I agree totally with you. Now the cafe sounds great. For me it really depends on the time of day. A refreshing walk by the sea or in the country is good before 4pm after that I move into relax mode and fun changes into something else ! Love the watch.
ReplyDeleteCx
Sounds like a great book - mut try to get my hands on a copy.
ReplyDelete♥
Melissah