We talk about why we should be the one to make the plan, a listener suggests a hack for making it easier to use online recipes, and “Quiet” author Susan Cain talks about the beauty of the “Bittersweet.”

Elizabeth suggests that you consider getting a dog (or a pet); she and her family have been joined by Nacho, a corgi! Tiffany Dufu suggests that we spend twenty minutes each day doing something that brings us joy, and we ask, “Are you a person who celebrates moments?” (like “Fantasy Island” being renewed for Season 2).

We suggest taking the free “Work Happier Challenge” by text as we head into the “other January” of September, explain why talking to a rubber duck can help us tackle difficult problems, explore the challenge of the “first night effect” when traveling—and Elizabeth struggles with zombie mode.

Why you should think about the “Solomon Paradox” when you’re dealing with a difficult situation, how to respond to a Rebel who refuses to wear a seat belt, a hack for staying in touch with distant friends and family—and would you like to be a twin?

Want to learn whether you’re an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel—and what that means? Gretchen gives a quick overview of her popular personality framework, and explains how you can use it to end procrastination, reduce conflict, and stick to good habits. Plus an interview with an Obliger about how she learned how to harness the strengths of her Tendency.

Why you might choose to go someplace alone, how to have a good conversation with a child, and a listener suggests an easy, clever hack for remembering to bring items.

Podcast 37: A close look at the Obliger Tendency. Are you like Elizabeth, and find it easy to meet outer expectations (a work deadline) but struggle to meet inner expectations (New Year's resolution)? Want to get in touch? @gretchenrubin; @elizabethcraft; podcast@gretchenrubin; happiercast.com/37; 774-277-9336.