Often, how we view a situation can determine our level of satisfaction. If we always look at the negative side of things, it's hard to be content.
Check your mind-set by taking the following quiz.
1) Your significant other invites you on a cruise. Later, you find out their mother will be coming along. How do you react?
Amused -- you find it funny that you actually thought you would be doing something romantic. Disgusted -- what kind of moron invites their mother on a cruise? Delighted -- this will be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with the mother of your significant other.
2) You go to a new movie your friends have been raving about. You don't hold their opinion of its quality. You are
Irritated -- why do you even bother listening to others' opinions? Content -- you win some, you lose some. Disappointed -- while you don't mind spending the money, you wish you had spent your time elsewhere.
3) You take your nephew to the local amusement park on a hot day in the midst of a noisy crowd. Your nephew is boiling over with excitement. Your mood can be described as:
Happy -- seeing your nephew have fun is worth it. Miserable -- the things you find yourself doing to satisfy this child often irritate you. Nonchalant -- you'll deal with the conditions for his sake, but you can't enjoy it.
4) It's picnic day at work again and you are in charge of clean up. Your attitude is:
Complacent -- you'll do your part, although you would have rather poured drinks. Merry -- you love pitching in to help everyone have a good time. Cynical -- of course they would give you trash duty. When was the last time you got your share of recognition?
5) You planned to go to see your favorite baseball team play today but the game is rained out. Your day is:
Ruined -- you looked so forward to going to the game that every other activity pales in comparison. Productive -- you'll have a good time another day. There is always work to be done. Exciting -- you find an alternative to going to the game (like attending a Broadway show or a wrestling match).