It shouldn’t take much to make you happy. But does it? When I think of what makes me happy, I don’t think of expensive trips to exotic locations or fancy cars. Sure, either of those things would make me happy. But it’s not what comes to mind. Come to think of it, maybe it’s because I don’t have a fancy car nor do I take fancy trips. 

But that’s beside the point. In nutrition there’s a concept called a “taste thermostat.” If it’s high, it basically means you live on artificially flavored processed junk. You’re unable to appreciate the subtle flavors of real food. It’s the reason a soda drinker thinks La Croix is gross. I know because I used to be one.

But I began consuming healthier foods and then was able to appreciate the natural flavors of fruits, vegetables, and yes, even La Croix sparkling water.

So, am I saying you need to lower your expectations in order to be happy? No. We don’t need to become Peter La Fluer, Vince Vaughn’s character in Dodgeball, in order to appreciate life. Early in the movie, reclining in a worn out office chair located in his outdated fitness center, he he explains his recipe for happiness by saying something along the lines of “I feel the best way to be happy is to never set goals for myself. That way I’m not disappointed if I don’t reach them” 

The problem is we connect happiness to the thrills of life. Disneyland (or is it Disney World?) is the happiest place on earth. And home...well, that’s just where day-to-day monotony takes place. 

If only you’d take the time to appreciate the subtleties of life, you’d find happiness is around every corner and even in your cup of coffee.