There’s no minimum quantity when it comes to appreciation.
There’s also no maximum when it comes to how much we can take for granted. Happiness is a mindset, and that mind is set by what we choose to focus on. Are we thankful for what (or whom) we have, or tortured by what (or whom) we don’t?
When we look at it this way, happiness is no longer acquired or achieved, but instead, realized and chosen. People will often bear-hug their misery, sabotaging opportunities for appreciation and happiness, for the simple fact that those feelings are familiar and comfortable.
If we feel like we’re constantly collecting and acquiring to fulfill a hunger for happiness, then maybe we’re going about it the wrong way. The happiest people are the ones who have that magic amount of enough in their life (enough as defined by them).
I’m writing this from India, and I’m witnessing laughter and smiles in some of the darkest, most unsuspected places. I also see tears and frowns in some of the fanciest, most sought-after locales. This isn’t always the case, but it shows how important a role our minds play in the process.
We may be happier wanting less than getting more, but words like less, more, and happy all have different meanings to us. The one thing I can promise, though, is if the word appreciate isn’t being thrown around much, neither are those happy feelings.