Knowing This One Thing Might Make You a Better Friend, Partner, and Coworker

Ever wonder what’s holding you back from being a better communicator, collaborator, friend, or partner? New York Times bestselling author Gretchen Rubin knows a thing or two about harnessing the power of our unique experiences, personality traits, and creativity to live a more productive and happy life. Her beloved podcast, Happier With Gretchen Rubin, is dedicated to talking about good habits and healthy hacks, and her new book, The Four Tendencies, introduces a brand-new framework to help people understand how they respond to expectations so they can live a happier life. We chatted with Rubin during her recent stop at Scribd, where she popped in for a live Q&A along her San Francisco book tour. Read on to learn more about the four Tendency types and which one you may be.

Brit + Co: We loved your books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. What inspired you to put together the “Four Tendencies” framework? What is a “Tendency”?

Gretchen Rubin: I put together the framework based on patterns I noticed when speaking to individuals during years of researching and writing about happiness and behavior. I often heard, “When someone tells me to do something, immediately I don’t want to do it.” Many others told me, “I can always make time for other people, but I can never take time for myself.” I was surprised to hear the same frustrations from so many people and also wanted to know why they didn’t ring true for me. I realized that these struggles stemmed from the answer to a simple question: How do you respond to expectations?

We all face outer expectations (like a work deadline) and inner expectations (like a New Year’s Resolution). How we respond to them is our Tendency. They are:

  • Upholders respond readily to outer and inner expectations (I’m an Upholder, 100 percent).
  • Questioners question all expectations; they’ll meet an expectation if they think it makes sense — essentially, they make all expectations into inner expectations.
  • Obligers meet outer expectations but struggle to meet expectations they impose on themselves.
  • Rebels resist all expectations, outer and inner alike.

Whenever I describe the four types to people, they almost immediately know their Tendency and the Tendency of many people in their lives.

B+C: This is fascinating. How does knowing your Tendency change the way you interact with friends?

GR: Our Tendency shapes every aspect of our behavior, so understanding this framework lets us make better decisions, meet deadlines, suffer less stress and burnout, and engage more effectively with other people. When we understand the Four Tendencies, we become more tolerant and compassionate of the way others operate. It’s helpful to remember that when someone responds to an expectation differently from us, it has nothing to do with the value they place on your relationship — it’s simply their nature.

In any relationship, it’s important to be aware of your Tendency and those of the people around you. Upholders are the least common tendency, and their self-motivation and the ease at which they set and conquer goals for themselves can cause their friends to become self-critical or resentful. Don’t compare yourself to them — they are the rare ones! Feel empowered to take actions that will help motivate you and ensure your success.

B+C: This makes so much sense! Can you share an example to showcase how Tendencies might function in a romantic relationship?

GR: I’m an Upholder and my husband is a Questioner. Understanding this frames the way in which we communicate and helps prevent frustration. For example, I know that when my husband asks questions about a decision, it’s not coming from a judgment or a lack of trust — it’s simply in his nature to want to understand the “why” behind decisions. Before understanding this, I would often feel drained by his questions, and he would feel frustrated by my response.

B+C: You point out that there’s a power in knowing your Tendency in professional situations too. Most of us have experienced frustrating moments at work, whether they were with a tricky teammate or a bad boss. How can various Tendencies work together to accomplish goals and achieve success?

GR: Understanding and embracing each team member’s Tendency leads to more productivity and less conflict. For instance, say you’re the boss of a Rebel and an Obliger and you need both of them to turn in an assignment. You will get your best work out of them if you adjust the way in which you delegate assignments and share expectations. The Obliger needs accountability, and they will appreciate deadlines and oversight. Rebels are resistant to reminders and structure; they will do their best work when they can develop their own processes.

A boss or a colleague of a Questioner might mistake their curiosity as insubordination or stubbornness — but they are just trying to get their questions answered. Upholders can often get impatient with people’s questions, or with their need for accountability, or with their resistance. When they see that they function differently from the majority of others, they can have much more productive relationships.

B+C: How has knowing your Tendency changed the way you personally interact with others each day?

GR: My relationships are much richer and more productive, and I have a better understanding of my own strengths and weaknesses. As an Upholder, for instance, I am able to easily set and accomplish goals. There were times when I would be judgmental or impatient with others who didn’t operate in the same way. That kind of thinking can lead to resentment and conflict. Since I identified these Tendencies and recognized that I’m not like everyone else, I’ve become much more accepting of others habits and ways of being. Knowing your Tendency can help you make better decisions, and it’s important to consciously discuss your tendencies in an open and safe dialogue.

Want to know which Tendency you are? Find out with Gretchen Rubin’s online quiz and share your results with us on Twitter @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

(Featured photo via @gretchenrubin)

Blake Lively is as multifaceted as they come. She's an actress who has starred in titles like Gossip Girl, A Simple Favor, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (plus It Ends With Us). She's the founder of Betty Buzz, which has a variety of non-alcoholic mixers that taste just as good on their own as they do with liquor. And, she's also a mom. Lively has been outspoken about protecting her children from the paparazzi, making rare public appearances with them for events like her husband Ryan Reynolds' Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremonyandcozy date nights.

When Lively and Reynolds seemingly announced the birth of their fourth child last year, we melted. Here's everything you need to know about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids.

Is Taylor Swift friends with Blake Lively's kids?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Yes, Taylor Swift loves Blake Lively's kids! The family has shown up to the Eras Tour multiple times, and most recently supported the popstar at her concert in New Orleans, Louisiana. Blake and Ryan were joined by oldest daughter James (who looked amazing in a Reputation-inspired 'fit), and I can't believe how much James and Blake look alike! She's truly her mini-me! At the Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, which Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attended, Taylor said hello from the stage.

One funny detail about Ryan Reynolds' kids that I love is when he mentioned the girls finally realized Taylor Swift was a popstar. "I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he tellsThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

For Super Bowl Sunday in 2024, Blake Lively joined Taylor Swift to support beau (and KC Chiefs tight end) Travis Kelce. "Last week I left my kids for the first time ever," she says on Instagram. "I took pictures upside down and had no clue. I treated a friendship bracelet like a Flat Stanley for my husband like I didn’t realize it wasn’t ‘07. I borrowed more jewelry than the skeleton in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. And I went clubbing. Now I know what my episode of TheTwilight Zone would look like."

How do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively prioritize their kids?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Michael Kors

At the end of September, Ryan Reynolds revealed how different parenting seems to be now than when he was a kid. "Parents today are so different. We're so soft," he said at HubSpot’s INBOUND tech conference (via People). "I don't yell. I grew up with like — it was nuts, it was an improvised militia.”

“Now it's like, I can go look at all my resources for parenting and remind myself how to be perfectly compassionate,” he continued. "Something I love about [conflict resolution], and I know this is not very fancy, but what I love about it is that you can meet somebody where they are, and you don't have to be right or wrong...You can disagree and still connect."

Blake Lively recently joined an episode of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' costar Amber Tamblyn's Further Adoand revealed the one unbreakable rule she made with Ryan Reynolds.

“When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time,” she says. “So that we could always prioritize our personal life...That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that; it takes balance.”

I love that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are serious about their family life, and that they have identified what works for them and are sticking with it.

What is the name of Blake Lively's 4th baby?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' fourth baby is named Olin, which he revealed during the July 22 premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine!

Before Ryan chose to reveal the name, he appeared on the Today show and made a cheeky joke about it after the hosts urged him to spill the beans. He said, "We always wait for Taylor to tell us what the child's name will be. We'll say this: we're still waiting."

What are Blake Lively kids ages?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively's kids are all under 10. James is 9 (turning 10 on December 16), Inez is 7 (turning 8 on September 30), Betty is 4 (turning 5 on October 4), and Olin turned 1 in February.

What gender is Ryan and Blake's fourth child?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

On July 26, Ryan Reynolds confirmed that he and Blake Lively's fourth baby, born in February 2023, is a boy in an Instagram video supporting mental health charity Walking 4 Hope. Speaking with founder John Bell, who struggled with suicidal ideation after the 2020 loss of his son Jake, Reynolds says, “I want to share with you that I, too, have a son...Boy, John, if I love him one-tenth as much as you love Jake, I’ll feel like I’ve done a pretty d—mn good job.”

Considering how adorable James, Inez, and Betty are, I can only imagine how cute Blake Lively's son is!

How many children do Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have four kids. They welcomed their third daughter in 2019, making this new addition to the family their fourth child.

Did Blake Lively have a 4th baby?

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

Blake Lively posted a pic on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023 showing what appears to be a post-baby body with the caption "Been busy."

Lively confirmed her fourth pregnancy in September 2022 when she arrived at her Forbes event in NYC cradling a baby bump and by posting her own personal photos on Instagramhoping that "the 11 guys waiting outside [her] home for a 🦄 sighting will leave [her] alone."

How old was Blake Lively when she had her first child?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively was 27 when she gave birth to her first daughter, James, in December of 2014.

Why did Blake Lively name her daughter James?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

The couple decided to name their daughter James after Reynolds' late father. While the name connects both James and Reynolds to his father, it also gives Lively the chance to bond with her daughter over having historically male names. "I liked having a boy's name," Lively said on Good Morning Americain 2015. "I thought I'd pass it on."

Their third daughter Betty's name is a tribute to Lively's late father. We didn't know the name of the couple's third baby until Taylor Swift used all three names in her 2020 album folklore. Swift also used James' voice at the beginning of her 2017 track "Gorgeous"! Does that mean we'll hear one of Ryan Reynolds' children in Reputation (Taylor's Version)? I hope so!

What has Ryan Reynolds said about raising their kids?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

In a conversation with Hugh Jackman ahead of Deadpool & Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds opened up about how his family has helped his anxiety. "I think it makes it better because your focus is less on yourself and more on your kids," he says (via People). "I love that I've had anxiety because when I see my kids experiencing some of that, which is probably genetic, I know how to address it in a way that is compassionate, that actually allows them to feel seen. I know that I can't just fix it. And I can communicate all that stuff to them and with them. I'm always grateful for it."

Per People, Ryan Reynolds has also made it clear he and Blake are wholly invested in the kids' daily lives. The doting husband and father enjoys the moments of "walking them to school and walking them back" as it deepens their bond. More than anything, Ryan and Blake's main goal is to make sure they teach their kids how to be introspective with Ryan saying "the thing we sort of hang our hat on the most is self-awareness with our kids."

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

However, that doesn't mean Blake and Ryan don't absolutely love being parents. "We're very excited [and] we wouldn't do this four times if we didn't love it," he says in an interview with CNBC's Power Lunch. "Everybody's doing great. Everybody's actually doing fantastic. I think if we hadn't figured it out by now, I think we'd be in deep, deep trouble."

"It's a zoo over here," he jokes. "This is my office here, this is where I'll probably — to be honest, I'll probably spend the rest of my life in here."

We love how much energy Ryan and Blake are pouring into their kids. It's always beautiful when parents are able to be present with their kids and teach them how to be present with themselves. Ryan Reynolds has also mentioned how having daughters "has been such a ride." Since he comes from a family of all boys, having daughters is something that was beyond his wildest dreams! “I love being a girl dad,” Ryan tells Access in 2020. “I have three daughters, which I never in a million years would imagine.”

He mentioned his newest child in June of 2023, when he announced his new series Bedtime Stories. "The idea for a show made to help everyone fall asleep was born the same day as my fourth child," he says on Instagram.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

The Deadpool actor also recently offered some parenting advice on Amanda Hirsch’s hit podcastNot Skinny But Not Fat. "Embrace the chaos,” he tells Hirsch. "[Blake] always says, ‘They're all under our roof right now. The whole family's under our roof right now. We have them all.’ And that is a fleeting thing. Not an infinite resource, you know?”

While Reynolds understands firsthand how overwhelming parenting can feel, he also doesn't wish away this time with four young kids: “Just say, ‘Think about what you would give in 40 years or 30 years to come back and enjoy this one moment.’"

How has motherhood affected Blake Lively?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images;Art by Claire Shadomy/B+C

Blake Lively opened up about how Ryan Reynolds and she monitor screen safety for their kids, which is definitely something top-of-mind in 2024. “This is not an ad. I get nothing out of this. I just love @tappityapp,” she said of the STEM-focused educational app. “It’s engaging, informative, fun and they care about safety."

She also jokes that she's learning new things right along with her kids! But, no matter how educational or fun an app is, Blake Lively also emphasizes the importance of engaging with her kids' devices: "I’m always triple checking any kids app constantly for safety because that’s my responsibility not an app’s, but I do LOVE this one.”

Despite its fun and funny moments, the actress has admitted being a mom is hard, but she did it with her signature dry sense of humor. “BettyBooze at your service," she wrote in an Instagram Story announcing the new brand. "These are recipes I’ve been making for loved ones for years. But I have 4 kids now. And I’m tired. So here they are. In a can."

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

However, Blake Lively absolutely loves motherhood, and says in a 2022 interview with Forbes that having children has made her feel more comfortable in her own skin. "Once I had children, that just became even more profound because my time was even more precious, but also I think having children for me made me feel so much more in my skin," she says. "I never felt more myself or at ease in my own body or more confident — not to say that there aren't a bevy of insecurities coming at me a million times a day, but I just feel incredibly settled."

Speaking with People in 2021, Lively also explains how important it is that her children see her accomplish things outside the home. "I want to be as present of a mother as humanly possible and I want them to feel my presence, but I also think the best way to be the best mother is to show them that you can have a life and have a passion and have an identity outside of just being a mother," Lively says.

While she acknowledges that motherhood is all-encompassing, and it looks different for everyone, she knows that having your own identity is very important. "Teaching them that they can maintain themselves and that everything is possible [is crucial]," she adds.

When did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have their daughters?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation

Blake Lively's children were all born in the last 10 years. Blake Lively's daughters are James, Inez, Betty, and her fourth child is named Olin! Their fourth baby's name was announced during the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine. Blake gave birth to James in 2014, while Inez was born in 2016. Lively gave birth to Betty in 2019 and Olin in February of 2023.

Do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids have nannies?

Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' children don't have a nanny. "I feel like I could sometimes have a bit of a short fuse, but there's just been this weirdly endless supply of patience," Ryan told GQ in 2015. "I have no problem waking up five times in the middle of the night and changing diapers, and as exhausted as you get, I have this stupid grin on my face all the time."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids!

Lead image via Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

This story has been updated.

Despite his (very) questionable communication tactics, the world was immediately enraptured with Jeremy Allen White's Carmy when The Bear premiered on FX in 2022. And thanks to the show, and its various Emmy Awards, Carmy and his blue apron are instantly recognizable, as is Jeremy Allen White's next role: Bruce Springsteen.

The biopic joins a lineup of other highly anticipated movies like Timothée Chalamet's A Complete Unknown, about Bob Dylan, Selena Gomez's upcoming Linda Ronstadt biopic, and Paul Mescal's rumored role in the Beatles movies. And in addition to White's excitement for Deliver Me From Nowhere, the movie also has The Boss' stamp of approval! Here's everything we know about the upcoming movie.

See The First Look Of Jeremy Allen White As Bruce Springsteen!

20th Century Fox

The first look at Deliver Me From nowhere is a shot of Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen in a plaid shirt and leather jacket. The whole effect looks like an old polaroid, and (more importantly) is incredibly attractive.

“Beginning production on this film is an incredibly humbling and thrilling journey," writer-director Scott Cooper says in a statement. “Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’ has profoundly shaped my artistic vision. The album’s raw, unvarnished portrayal of life’s trials and resilience resonates deeply with me. Our film aims to capture that same spirit, bringing Warren Zanes’ compelling narrative of Bruce’s life to the screen with authenticity and hope, honoring Bruce’s legacy in a transformative cinematic experience. It has been a great pleasure to collaborate with Bruce and Jon [Landau] as I tell their story, and their creative energy fuels every part of this journey. As well, I’m excited to reunite with my friend, David Greenbaum [president, Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios], as he embarks on his new role at Disney, adding another layer of inspiration to this project.”

What has Bruce Springsteen said about the movie?

It could be a very strange experience to have your life turned into a movie, but Bruce Springsteen seems to be having a great time. “It’s a lovely cast and I am involved a little,” he said on the Graham Norton Show (via People).

He also doesn't shy away from the fact that Jeremy Allen White's performance won't be exactly the same because "you can’t do an imitation, you have to do a personal interpretation."

“It’s difficult but he is a great actor and sings pretty good," he continues.

Will there be a Bruce Springsteen biopic?

Columbia/Sony Music Publishing

Deliver Me From Nowhere Plot

Yes, a Bruce Springsteen movie is on its way! Deliver Me From Nowhere will follow Warren Zanes' book of the same name, which chronicles the process of creating Bruce's 1982 album Nebraska. The movie comes from 20th Century Studios, who's behind other smash hits like Avatar: The Way of Water, The French Dispatch, and Alien: Romulus.

“Bruce Springsteen, and Nebraska, in particular, have had a profound impact on me and my work. Through themes of despair, disillusionment, and the struggles of everyday Americans, Bruce has formed an unparalleled legacy, painting an unflinching portrait of the human condition,” director Scott Cooper said in a statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). “Yet, amidst the darkness, a sense of resilience and a sense of hope shines through, reflecting an indomitable spirit. That’s the Bruce I’ve come to know and love and will honor with this film.”

When does the Bruce Springsteen movie come out?

Deliver Me From Nowhere Release Date

We don't have an official release date for the move yet, but they start shooting in November!

Who will play Bruce Springsteen in the movie?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Deliver Me From Nowhere Cast

Jeremy Allen White stars as rock icon Bruce Springsteen. “I’ve got a really beautiful team of people helping me and Bruce has been really lovely and supportive and available, which has made this whole process an extra joy," Jeremy Allen White told Deadline in September 2024. "His support and Jon Landau, his management's, support, who has a large role in the film as well. So I feel really lucky.”

He also told Variety in June that he's “gonna try [his] best" to do his own singing in the movie.

Jeremy is joined by Odessa Young, who's playing one of Bruce Springsteen's love interests. Since she nabbed a spot in the film, she's been “weeping multiple times a day, but tells Variety she hasn't met the rockstar yet. “I really think that it will send me down a path for which there is no return,” she says. “Like I cannot come back from that experience as the same person.”

Stay tuned for the latest news on Jeremy Allen White's Deliver Me From Nowhere! Read up on why the A Complete Unknown Trailer Cements Timothée Chalamet As An Oscar Contender for more biopic news.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

There are days when you’re feeling epic. This overcast Saturday morning at The Grove (a popular outdoor shopping mall in LA) was one of those days, and I’d like to think that it was for Ian Somerhalder too — thanks to his latest collaboration with Nutro. The pet food company hosted the first-ever Farmer’s Market for Dogs, and it was just as adorably therapeutic as you’d think it’d be.

Now, it’s not lost on me that Somerhalder is a well-known face in the entertainment industry, thanks to his performances on The Vampire Diaries, Lost, V Wars, and more. So, his demeanor throughout the morning reflected exactly how I thought it would: as a total pro. He knew exactly where to find the camera, how to approach continuous interview questions, and made sure to greet workers kindly — including myself.

“So I’m going to ask you a few questions,” I told Somerhalder, after we finished our introductions. ”Oh, don’t do it. Prepare to be underwhelmed,” he quickly joked. Little did he know that as a longtime fan of The Vampire Diaries, there’s nothing he can really say that would ‘underwhelm’ me.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

“One of the amazing things we're excited about is the takeaway that we hope people get from this, which is showing pet parents that they can be an incredible positive force of change,” Somerhalder told me. With this initiative, the actor explained that Nutro intends to “help shepherd, fund, and educate the farmers within their network to start adapting healthy soil practices.”

The farmers market contained everything from a Willy Wonka factory standard of treats, to a build your own flower bouquet station, to a section where you can get your dog’s astrology read (I know, that’s so LA). Of course, there were also many dogs (of which I pet mostly all of them), and a beaming Ian Somerhalder who so graciously led the ribbon cutting. Of those dogs, was Somerhalder’s twelve-year-old pup named Nietzsche, who was as sweet as can be (and yes, I pet her as well). The actor noted that he found Nietzsche as a stray while filming The Vampire Diaries in Georgia, and took her in pretty instantaneously.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Speaking of The Vampire Diaries, I asked him how he felt about the recent 15th anniversary of the CW series airing on television, which was marked on September 10th.

“You know, it's so funny,” Somerhalder answered. “Obviously, it was a lifetime ago, but it feels like it was yesterday. And so, you know, obviously streaming changed the game. The show is one of the most viewed shows in history, period — that's been seen by over a billion people, which is 1/8 of the planet.” I later teased that myself, sisters, and friends were likely responsible for a big portion of those streams.

“[The Vampire Diaries] allowed me to build a platform,” Somerhalder continued. “To work on things that were very close to my heart, but at the global scale, and it's allowed me to help create, enact or build the road for a lot of change, and it's why I have this amazing partnership.”

The Absorption Company founder continued, noting that filming the show “was an unbelievable time,” and he “cannot believe” how much time has passed. Since then, Somerhalder has added environmental advocate (as a former UNEP Global Goodwill Ambassador and aid in the Netflix documentary, Common Ground) and entrepreneur (in both the wellness and alcohol space) to his long list of successful titles.

This is when he panned to the phone camera I had pointing at him. “So, everyone who's seen the show, watched the show, supported us — me — in any way, shape and form regarding the show — I thank you from the bottom of my heart, because you have been a part of this journey with me.” Somerhalder then thanked the media, partners, and all those who have contributed to promoting “the show to be one of the most viewed things that was ever created.” I can’t say I didn’t appreciate that journalist nod.

“So here's to 15 years,” he finished. That’s when we insinuated a fake ‘cheers,’ with Brother’s Bourbon filled in our hypothetical glasses, obviously.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Segwaying from the bourbon brand, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to ask Somerhalder about his longtime friendship withThe Vampire Diaries co-star and business partner, Paul Wesley. With the show falling deep into the supernatural, and their relationship often unserious over fun social media clips, I questioned how they kept it together on-screen without constant laughter.

“I mean, we had to be serious,” Somerhalder said. “But, you know, you're like running from ghosts and vampires and stuff, and then you just cut and someone makes a fart joke, and 130 people erupt in laughter.” Cue my own giggle. “There's only so much you can run for your life, we laugh. That's how we kept each other sane.” I believe it, I told him. The eight-season show carries storylines from mythical sirens to evil doppelgängers.

Somerhalder added, “Paul and I spent eight years on the show, and now we have another company, and now it's 15 years.” He paused, smiling, “It's my longest relationship.” We shared another laugh. That’s when I went back to petting Nietzsche, who, it turns out, is just as professional in front of the camera as Somerhalder is. I’d expect nothing less.

Watch Our Ian Somerhalder Interview On TikTok!

www.tiktok.com

We’d do anything to see those behind-the-scenes moments with Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley! 😭 #thevampirediaries #iansomerhalder #damonsalvatore #damon #vampirediaries #paulwesley #stefansalvatore

Looking for more fun celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

I can give you two reasons why Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's marriage sits high on my admiration list — Veronica Mars and Punk'd. I was in barely in middle school when these two stars graced my TV screen on their respective shows, but they've always stood out to me. Discovering they were dating just seemed to make sense in the grand scheme of good romantic pairings and — as we can see — it turns out Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard think so too.

From their first meet-cute that wasn't actually that cute to the ways they've loved each other through dark times, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard almost make being in love look easy. Here's a breakdown of some of the most important moments of their relationship timeline.

Kristen Bell And Dax Shepard's Relationship Timeline:

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

2007: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Meet + Begin Dating

The couple haven't been shy about revealing their first time meeting was exactly love at first sight. Kristen Bell admitted during an Instagram Q&A in 2018 that they actually met at a party for producer Shauna Robertson. E! News recalled that the actress said, "2 weeks later I saw him at a hockey game and he asked for the gum in my mouth." Knowing Dax's personality, that actually checks out.

She also revealed his unconventional pickup line. "Truly, his first text to me was: ‘Hi. My name is Dax. I violated your privacy and got your number from Shauna. How do you feel about that,'' she remembered.

Though they did start dating, Kristen regularly trolls Dax about the time they briefly broke up. She told Popsugar, "He sat me down and said, 'I can't have this right now. I think you're wonderful, but I am still dating other people.' And then I, like, liquefied and fell to the ground, but I felt incredibly respected that he had the balls to tell me we weren't in the same place."

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

2009: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Work As Co-Stars During Filming Of When in Rome

Who can forget the hilarious rom-com movie When in Rome? Kristen starred as the 'unlucky in love' main character Beth who finds herself being pursued by a handful of romantic prospects after she picks up coins from a fountain that's supposed to grant love those who dare to take from it. Dax played the role of Gale, a model who was very into himself, and it was funny watching them interact on-screen.

According to People, the couple got engaged shortly after filming ended.

Image via Rick Diamond/Getty Images for CMT

August 2012: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Work Together Again On Set Of Hit & Run

Written by Dax Shepard, Hit & Run revolved around a former getaway driver's attempt to flee his past while making sure his girlfriend makes it to her job interview on time. The couple reprised their romantic relationship onscreen and continued to prove that they work really well together.

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

November 2012: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Announce They're Expecting Baby No. 1

A source relayed the news to People in 2012 by sharing the following statement, "They’re so excited — they’re both ecstatic. They can’t wait to become parents." They also shared that Kristen had been dealing with a bit of morning sickness, but she started doing better as time passed.

March 28, 2013: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's First Daughter Arrives

Several months later, Kristen gave birth birth to her and Dax's first daughter, Lincoln Bell Shepard.

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images

June 2013: Kristen Bell Pops The Question To Dax Shepard

In 2013, People shared that Kristen proposed to Dax Shepard after The Supreme Court overturned California's Prop 8 that was meant to ban same-sex marriage.

October 2013: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Tie The Knot

The couple celebrated their union by exchanging vows at a courthouse. Kristen previously told People they didn't want a grand celebration and they managed to keep their word.

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

June 2014: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Prepare For Baby No. 2's Arrival

The couple happily announced they were growing their family in 2014 via their rep's statement to People. "I can confirm that Kristen and Dax are expecting their second child and a sibling for Lincoln," the rep shared. They also touched on how much their family was looking forward to the arrival of a new bundle of joy.

December 2014: The Couple's Second Daughter Is Born

Finally, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Delta Bell Shepard, before Christmas in 2014.

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

2017: Dax Shepard And Kristen Bell Star in CHiPS

A couple who works together, stays together — at least that seems to apply Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. They starred together again in the movie CHiPS, but Kristen starred as Dax's ex-wife this time.

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty Images for FIJI Water

September 1, 2018: Kristen Bell And Dax Shepard Celebrate His Sobriety Journey

Dax Shepard has never been ashamed to talk about his sobriety journey and shared a personal moment with that made him question everything He appeared on Blake Griffin's podcast, The Pursuit of Healthiness to talk about his struggles in 2021. "What I would do is I would get sober for movies. I cared more about movies — it was the only thing I was more addicted to was being in movies — and so I would get sober for movies and then in between movies it was getting more and more dangerous," he recalled.

It wasn't until he caught a glimpse of himself in a mirror during a trip to Hawaii that he realized something was wrong. He remembered thinking, "I have every single thing I've ever wanted, and I'm at my lowest point emotionally and something has got to be very broken about that. If I have everything I said was going to make me feel good and I feel terrible, I've got to look at some other thing."

To celebrate her husband's commitment to remaining sober, Kristen wrote a heartfelt message on Instagram to encourage him to keep going. "I'm so proud that you have never been ashamed of your story, but instead shared it widely, with the hope it might inspire someone else to become the best version of themselves...I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone, and I want you to know, I see you. I see how hard you work," a portion of the lengthy message reads.

Addiction in any form is never easy to navigate so we admire how much Kristen's been supportive of Dax.

Image via John Sciulli:Getty Images for UNICEF

February 2019: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Launch A Baby Brand

Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard decided to launch Hello Bello— a brand with everything from diapers to sun and bug protection — for several reasons. "I want something that's going to fill my soul. I want access to be able to give a lot of stuff away just as gifts, as a way of saying thank you for existing in this hard time called parenting," she told People in 2021.

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

September 2023: Kristen Bell And Dax Share The Secret To Their Happy Marriage

It's no doubt that Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard have experienced a lot throughout their marriage, but they've managed to stay the course. Kristen actually shared some amazing advice for other couples during a conversation with Entertainment Tonight that we're thinking about applying to our own relationships. "Common goals, seek them out," she stressed.

The other thing she feels is crucial to making a relationship work is truly seeing and valuing your partner as a person. "Understanding that your partner used to be a little person is the best thing you can do. Sometimes if we're ever on the verge of a fight, one of us will say — it's usually Dax — 'I feel like 8-year-old Dax right now.' And I'm able to see him like I see my kids, which is in a very different way and go, 'Oh yeah, you're a little person that had trauma and triggers and it's not about me,'" she added.

That's powerful because it can be hard to remember that it's not just about you in a relationship. We don't think people intentionally mean to be selfish, but it can be happen and the key is to acknowledge it instead of doubling down on a particular stance that may not be helpful in the heat of an argument.

October 26, 2024: Dax Shepard Jokes About Kristen Bell's Chemistry With Adam Brody

Nobody Wants This has been the fall rom-com that we can't stop talking about because it's clear Kristen Bell and Adam Brody have intense chemistry in it. Not only were we surprised by it, but it apparently startled Dax Shepard. PEOPLEreports he opened up to the crowd at the New York Festival about it on Saturday, October 28 by recounting a conversation he had with his friend. "...we watched that scene together, the kissing scene, which I'd argue is the very best kissing scene ever, ever put on film," the actor said. "And my best friend, Aaron, from childhood, he goes, 'Does she ever kiss you like that?' No, I didn't even know she could kiss like that."

Dax has no problems poking fun at he and Kristen's relationship so I'm sure they've since debunked that behind closed doors.

Wanna keep up with all your fave celeb couples? Follow us on Facebook for more!

Lead image via John Sciulli/Getty Images for UNICEF

This post has been updated.

We have a serious appreciation for all things creative, like these plus-size Halloween costumes, and we have a hunch you’ll love some of our newest finds, too. Afterward, if you still haven’t decided on which costume to wear this Halloween, gather your group of besties and get their opinion — or, better yet, pick out a group Halloween costume, and you can all dress up together! Here are 40 of the most curve-lovin’ (and seriously hot) plus-size Halloween costumes you’ll find out there this season.

Yandy

Cruella de Vil

Cruella de Vil will always hold a special place among our most-feared villains, right alongside Voldemort and Ursula. After all, she’s going after puppies! But on Halloween, the celebration of the gruesome and morbid, this evilness equates to fabulousness, and we’ll more than forgive you for dressing up like her… just this once.

Walmart

Maleficent

Channel your deepest, darkest powers and channel your inner Maleficent this Halloween. “So you see, the story is not quite as you were told.”

Amazon

Cozy Deer

Wait, so we can look cute *and* be toasty-warm?! We’re sayin’ yes to this fuzzy zip-up.

Yandy

Sexy Stewardess

Get ready for liftoff in this flight attendant costume. If you’re a travel-lover, this is the perfect way to bring your passion into your costume.

Brit + Co

DIY Jessica Rabbit Costume

This has to be the ultimate curvy bombshell character to channel on Halloween. The dress, gloves, hair, and makeup are bold and will definitely put your bangin’ bod front and center. (via Brit + Co)

Amazon

Sexy Kitty

Frisky attitude not included. This plus size Halloween costume might look simple, but it’s anything but basic.

Amazon

Flapper Girl

There’s nothing as fun — and a little dangerous — as the glitz and glamour of the ’20s. Throw on a long string of pearls or do your makeup to look like a ghostly flapper for that extra creative edge.

Brit + Co

DIY Ursula Costume

We’ll always be a sucker for classic Disney costumes. And if you want to give Ursula that extra-special take, you can follow this relatively simple DIY for the costume contest win! (via Brit + Co)

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren Mermaid

This is — hands down — one of the best mermaid costumes we’ve ever seen. From the form-fitting metallic mermaid “tail” to the bustier top, this is for sure a look to emulate if you want to flaunt your curves.

Yandy

Storybook Alice

Down the rabbit hole you go this Halloween. You never know what’s going to happen when you channel this fairytale classic!

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren

You had us at gold, sequins, and tulle. Oh, and we’re always down to rule the sea!

Amazon

Ninja

Pop off this Halloween in a comfortable disguise that’s both sleek and sexy.

Amazon

Beauty And The Beast Belle

We’ll always love our classic Disney princesses, especially this beauty.

Amazon

Minnie Mouse

You don’t need a Mickey to look fly as heck in a retro-inspired Minnie Mouse getup.

Amazon

Empress Divine

One of the best reasons to dress up as an ancient Egyptian is obviously the cat-eye makeup.

Amazon

Goth Red Riding Hood

Pay homage to one of your favorite fairy tales with a sexy twist. Plus, if you haven’t worn a cape before, you truly haven’t lived.

Amazon

Flirty Cop

It may be illegal to impersonate a police officer, but no one ever said a flirty cop was off-limits!

Halloween Costumes

Cinderella Fairy Godmother

We could all use a fairy godmother, albeit notthis scheming one from Shrek. Still, this is a hilarious costume, and we’re definitely eyeing that wand and wig combo.

Yandy

Commando Cutie

Serve your country by wearing this retro army green uniform.

Amazon

Harley Quinn

We’re impressed with the mismatched thigh-highs and color-coordinated armbands on this plus-size Halloween costume.

Amazon

Cozy Bat Costume

The name of this costume says it all. If you’re in the mood to prioritize comfort, you’ll feel extra-snuggly in this cozy bat costume.

Amazon

Ghostbuster

If you loved the all-female Ghostbusters as much as we did, grab your friends and go as the whole crew. The best part? On Halloween, there will be plenty of monsters to bust, which makes a great conversation-starter!

Amazon

Queen Bee

Everyone at this year's Halloween party will be buzzing about you in this flattering bee costume. You are the queen, after all!

Amazon

Poison Ivy

Wow, here’s a sexy take on the evil Poison Ivy.

Amazon

Oktoberfest Fraulein

The beer maid costume is always a safe choice. It’s cute and classic, and you get to wear pigtails.

Yandy

Sexy Nurse

They’ll need a nurse after you knock ’em out with this costume!

Amazon

Snow White

If you’re going to wear this outfit out on the town, you’ll definitely have at least seven admirers following you wherever you go.

Amazon

Pinup Sailor

Sail the open seas with this cute and comfy sailor costume. This retro getup is all about the accessories!

Yandy

Miss Muerte

Another way to celebrate Halloween is to celebrate the dead. Do it in style with this awesome costume.

Amazon

Cozy Skeleton

If you’re into traditional bones, this comfy number will surely scare the living dead out of you.

Amazon

Grease Pink Lady

This is the perfect Halloween costume for when you don’t really want to dress up. Flats? Check! Awesome jacket to keep you warm? Double check!

Walmart

Supergirl

No one is going to mess with you in this costume, and you just might feel faster than a speeding bullet.

Halloween Costumes

Spanish Senorita

With plenty of sass and a whole lot of ruffles, this costume will have you dancing for joy.

Amazon

Mrs. Incredible

Be your own superhero with this sleek Elastigirl costume. You would look totally incredible in it.

Amazon

Dark Alice

We wouldn’t drink the tea that this Alice serves. While we do love the original blue that Disney’s Alice wears, we are really digging this all-black dress too.

Amazon

Batgirl

Trick-or-treat in the name of justice! Grab Superman and bring him along too, because you two are friends now, remember?

Amazon

Hippie

Keep this Halloween totally tubular by donning this adorable retro dress with go-go boots and a fun '70s eye makeup look!

Amazon

Friday The 13th Miss Voorhees

If you’re team Jason, then you need to buy this sexy number. While we’re not sure who would ultimately win this fight, we’re sure this outfit is already winning our hearts.

Walmart

Justice League Wonder Woman

While Superman is cool and all, we are particularly fond of Wonder Woman. She’s a badass chick that we are ready to represent. Flying an invisible jet doesn’t hurt, either.

Yandy

Cat Burglar

Feeling feisty? Go classic cat with a twist. Meeeow.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more Halloween costume ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.