As goofy as it sounds, I try to sing in the morning. It's hard

"As goofy as it sounds, I try to sing in the morning. It's hard both to sing and to maintain a grouchy mood, and it sets a happy tone for everyone - particularly in my case, because I'm tone deaf, and my audience finds my singing a source of great hilarity." In these light-hearted words, Gretchen Rubin reveals a profound truth about the power of positivity, routine, and the joyful absurdity of life. Rubin’s commitment to singing in the morning, despite being tone-deaf, demonstrates how we can choose to shape our emotional state through small, seemingly goofy actions. This simple act of singing transforms the energy around her and offers a powerful tool to set the mood for the day. Her words suggest that happiness is not only found in perfect moments but in embracing joy even in the imperfections.

In the ancient world, music was seen as a gateway to both spiritual connection and emotional release. The Greeks understood that song had the power to shape the soul and influence the world. Pythagoras, the philosopher and mathematician, famously believed that music could heal the body and the mind, seeing the harmonies of the universe mirrored in the harmonies of sound. For the Greeks, the act of singing was more than a vocalization; it was a way to align oneself with the rhythms of the cosmos. Rubin’s playful singing in the morning, much like the ancient songs that stirred the soul, provides a connection to something larger than oneself—an offering of joy to the world around her, even if it’s “off-key.”

Consider the Romans, who also believed in the power of rituals and ceremonies to maintain harmony within their homes and communities. Every day, Romans practiced daily rites that helped establish order, peace, and connection. These were not necessarily grand gestures, but small acts—like lighting the hearth or offering prayers to the household gods. In the same way, Rubin’s morning singing ritual acts as a small, but potent, way to create balance in her life and in the lives of those around her. Though it may seem simple, this act mirrors the ritualistic behaviors of ancient peoples, who understood that small, regular acts could set the tone for the day or even life.

In more recent times, we see similar examples in the lives of great leaders or public figures who understand the importance of setting a positive tone for those around them. Consider Winston Churchill, the British prime minister who faced one of the darkest periods of history during World War II. Though he often faced immense pressure, he knew the importance of uplifting those around him—whether through his speeches, his actions, or the relationships he built with those closest to him. Churchill’s ability to inspire was, in part, due to his optimism and resilience in the face of adversity. Rubin’s morning ritual, like Churchill’s leadership, embodies the power of attitude: by choosing joy, we influence the world around us, setting a mood that can either uplift or drag others down.

The lesson in Rubin's words is clear: we have the power to shape our emotional reality, not by waiting for external circumstances to change but by intentionally choosing actions that promote positivity. In a world that often encourages us to focus on what’s wrong, singing—no matter how “off-key”—becomes a symbol of embracing the silly, the joyful, and the lighthearted. It is a reminder that we do not need to be perfect to bring joy into our lives and the lives of others. In fact, embracing imperfection can often make the experience even more human and relatable.

The power of ritual and routine is another central theme in Rubin’s words. She has discovered that by integrating joy into her daily life, she sets a foundation for the rest of her day. This mirrors the wisdom of ancient philosophers who taught that our daily actions—our rituals—shape our character and destiny. Whether through morning songs, daily reflections, or rituals of gratitude, the small choices we make can have profound effects on our mental and emotional well-being.

In our own lives, let us embrace the lesson of Rubin's morning song. Find those small, joyful rituals—however quirky or imperfect—that help you connect to happiness and share that joy with others. Whether through laughter, music, or simple acts of kindness, we have the power to shape our emotional landscape. Just as ancient peoples understood the power of ritual to create balance and harmony, we too can use daily practices to create a life filled with positivity and connection. Let us remember that even in our imperfections, we can find joy, and in that joy, we can influence the world around us for the better.