Happiness Seeker Gretchen Rubin is a List Maker

Have you ever wished you were happier? I think a lot of people think about this but do nothing about it. Author Gretchen Rubin did something about it and spent a year focusing on ways to be happier. The result is a fabulous read called The Happiness Project. If you haven’t read it — you must. It’s funny, cute, insightful and thought provoking. She also has a blog by the same name.

It has changed the way I think about a lot of things and it has even altered my morning commute. Instead of stuffing myself onto the packed L train — I opt to walk to Union Square through a lovely park. I get a little exercise and I get some time all to myself.  Happiness found!

As you’ll read in the book — Gretchen is a list maker.  I’ve asked her to share some of her list-making secrets as my featured “List Producer” this month. Read more

Vacation Planning Made Easy With a List

Planning vacations is one of my favorite topics, and it is for others too.  For the most part, all that matters to people is that they get to relax and have a great vacation. I bring it up with almost everyone I meet because I love to get word-of-mouth recommendations for new adventures.

I recently met Korinne Kubena Belock, founder of Urban Simplicity, and we got to talking about trips of course. Korinne worked with Mayor Michael Bloomberg for 10 years as an organizer for his team. Since then she’s left and started her own organizing company in New York City to help people simplify their lives.

She mentioned that she was taking a trip to California and needed a guest blog while she was away. This is where I come in with one of my lists. I was thrilled when she asked me to guest blog and fill a void on her site while she basks in the sun! Check out my list for planning a vacation.

Planning a Destination Wedding

Wedding bells rang over and over again across New York State yesterday as same-sex couples tied the knot. Since New York now allows gay marriage – it’s becoming a destination for engaged couples! This reminds me of my own destination wedding in Puerto Rico and all the work that goes into planning an “away wedding.” It’s just as important to make sure that yourselves enjoy your hen and stag do’s! You’ll only get these once!

Sure some people will love you for having your wedding in a tropical or fun destination – but be prepared for some naysayers. Once you get over that and settle on your guest list there is a lot of planning ahead of you. Staying organized when planning one of the biggest events of your life is key. Otherwise you’ll be a stressed out mess and miss out on all the fun stuff! Read more