The older we get the more we start asking that question: Is this how I envisioned the way my life would be back when I was an idealistic 20-year old?

Depending on the time of the month, the actions of your children, and the state of your home, finances and love life - the answer to that question can vary.

Aren’t there some days that you are thankful to have the health of your children and other loved ones even if your bank account isn’t so healthy?

Then on other days, because we’re human, envy can come into play causing us to look with less than brotherly love on old friends or colleagues whose financial success exceeds our own.

It’s battle many of us deal with to varying degrees of success.  Pop psychologists encourage us to avoid those dark thoughts by keeping journals where we list those things we are thankful for to encourage a culture of gratitude.

While I’m no big fan of pop psychology, the whole notion of being thankful for the ”real” gifts in our lives is something that many of us were taught in our families or faith groups. Sometimes we need that reminder to look beyond the obstacles of the day to see the big picture of your life.

You know the saying “not being able to see the forest for the trees?” Well that’s a sentiment that is never more true than during this age of rapid change and constant busyness.

Sometimes we’re so caught up in what’s wrong with our lives that we fail to see the big picture that is made up of small successes and triumphs.

According to psychologist Dr. Benna Sherman “psychological research literature repeatedly demonstrates that gratitude is a significant predictor of happiness.  It’s not what or how much you have that defines whether you’ll be happy.  It’s whether you are grateful for what you have that matters.  Once the most basic survival needs are met, having more doesn’t make you happy.  How you feel about what you have is what determines whether you are a happy.”

And while I love my 50 year old, little house, a new bay window and one of those built in capocchino makers would add nicely to my current state of happiness!