Want to know a quick and easy way to feeling happier? Be grateful . It's as simple as that. A week or so ago, I had quite a scare. When I got home from work last Friday evening, I got a bad vibe -- a "something is missing" vibe. To my dismay, while using my cell phone, I noticed that my wedding band was not on my finger!  I hadn't the slightest clue where it could be; I couldn't even remember the last time I'd seen it. It's one of those things where you grow so accustomed to having or seeing something that you automatically assume it's always there. Unfortunately, it wasn't the first time in recent weeks that the ring had slid off my finger. It happened on another occasion where it fell in a drawer I was rummaging through to find a receipt. That should have been a warning to take the ring to get adjusted.) My wife and I frantically searched for the ring -- in our condo, along the walk paths outside, in my car. We even searched my cubicl...

The way to truly appreciate the things and people in your life is to imagine yourself without them. Put yourself (mentally) in a position of losing something or someone dear to you, and you'll quickly assign said object more value. Picture yourself without one or all of these: Your ability to see, hear, speak, or walk Your partner, parent, or close friend A pet you've had in the family for several years Your home or car Many people fail to consider that there are those who would give anything to have what they take for granted. They're instead focused solely on what they don't have, whether it's a better car or a bigger house. Unfortunately, it hits people many of us once it's too late -- once a loved one dies or another unexpected event transpires. Several people have told me that such an exercise really puts things in perspective and makes them less likely to take their blessings for granted in the future. I invite you to try it out and discuss ...