Count your joy

When it is your birthday, one positive activity to engage in is this: create a gratitude list. The number of items on your list should match your age. For example, if you are turning 38, write down 38 parts of your life that you appreciate.

Gratitude doesn’t make your problems go away—they will still be present—but your ability to engage them increases. Gratitude reminds you of what is possible, that you are loved, cherished, and have the strength to face what is in front of you. It is also a source of joy.

So when your next birthday comes around, create that list.

What might change if you marked another year not by what you lack, but by what has carried you this far?