Sometimes, helping can hurt. When people are struggling, our impulse is to try to pull them back on their feet, when what they really need is for someone to sit beside them and ask, "What do you need? What can I do?"
Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com
Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happine ... Show More
Aug 22
More Happier: What Tattoo Would You Get? Plus How to Give Yourself Permission to Play
When relaxing feels like wasting time, you can trick yourself into enjoying it anyway. Plus, 16 things to try for happier, calmer parenting. Episode highlights: Something Making Us Happier: Gretchen shares Chuck's tip for an ultra-quiet desk fan, plus more things we didn’t know [ ... Show More
26m 27s
Dec 2022
219 - Friday Fix: How to Ask for Help
Whether you want an extra hand moving furniture or you need professional help for depression, asking for help can be tough. It can feel scary too. We don’t want people to reject us, judge us, or feel more powerful than us. But the sooner we ask for help and make our needs known, ... Show More
10m 13s
Jun 2025
Why You Don’t Have to Fix Everyone (and Why That’s a Trauma Pattern)
You want to help. It feels noble - maybe even necessary. You’re the one who jumps in, figures it out, and holds it all together. And when someone you love is struggling? You can feel the pull in your chest, like you’re supposed to do something. But here’s the hard truth: sometime ... Show More
13m 11s