Tag Archives: happiness

Reality Check: Are We Having Fun Yet?

Posted on June 22, 2026 by RealityCheck

When was the last time you said, “That was fun!” Not sarcastically, but with genuine appreciation for time spent laughing. Was it today? Yesterday? Last week? Or maybe you have some vague memories of fun times when you were a … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: What Does Freedom Mean To You?

Posted on June 19, 2026 by RealityCheck

“How do you want your life to be?” In these columns, I’ve chosen to use the structure of basic needs as outlined in Choice Theory to help us answer that question. We’ll start by taking a look at our basic … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Those Difficult Thoughts and Feelings

Posted on June 12, 2026 by RealityCheck

When choosing a title for this column, I was torn about how to describe the thoughts and feelings I’m writing about. There are so many possibilities; we could call them negative, upsetting, or troublesome. I like “pesky” but it seems … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Great Expectations

Posted on March 30, 2026 by RealityCheck

An acquaintance suggested that I watch a new documentary. I respect his opinion and the topic sounded interesting, so I had great expectations. When a rainy day finally came along and I took the opportunity to watch it, I was … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: More Questions Than Answers

Posted on March 2, 2026 by RealityCheck

I often have more questions than answers. As soon as I find the answer to one question, more questions pop up. Is that true for you also? Having a curious mind can be a delightful asset; this is how we … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: A Simple Thank You

Posted on October 1, 2025 by RealityCheck

Do you offer compliments? If so, is it rarely, only when someone has done something truly extraordinary? Or does giving compliments come easily to you? Now, how about receiving compliments? Can you accept a compliment without embarrassment, shrugging it off, … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Expanding Happiness

Posted on September 13, 2025 by RealityCheck

Picture an image of everything that brings happiness to you. All the people, the places, the things, even the values and ideas; everything that brings you joy. Is your picture huge? Does it contain a wide selection of satisfying things? … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: The Big Value of Small Talk

Posted on June 23, 2024 by RealityCheck

Choice Theory suggests that people need good relationships to have a satisfying life. For one person, a good relationship might mean constant contact, where you share not only hopes and dreams but also the struggles and joys of everyday life. … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: Does Optimism Make a Difference?

Posted on May 29, 2024 by RealityCheck

Does optimism make a difference? That is, a positive difference? Or is optimism only for the naive and easily-led, those folks who aren’t wise enough to understand how really bad and awful and disastrous everything is? If you’ve been reading … Continue reading →

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Reality Check: One Suggestion

Posted on April 14, 2024 by RealityCheck

Do you look forward to each day with optimism? Or do you anticipate it with dread? Maybe you’re thinking, “There’s no point in either worrying or anticipating; it will be what it will be.” Here’s a bigger question: Does your … Continue reading →

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