I'm Gretchen Rubin and this is a little happier.

Ancient philosophers and contemporary scientists agree.

Gratitude is a critical element to a happy life.

Research shows that people who cultivate gratitude get a boost in happiness and optimism,

feel more connected to other people,

are better liked and have more friends,

are more likely to help others,

they even sleep better and have fewer headaches.

Nevertheless, I find it challenging to cultivate a grateful frame of mind.

I find that it's hard to stay grateful.

It's all too easy to begin to take aspects of my life for granted

and not realize how happy they make me or how lucky I am.

So I really make an effort to remind myself of all the things I have to be grateful for.

And here's an example.

I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri,

and when I was a child,

I rarely heard anyone speak a language other than English.

I was absolutely transfixed by hearing other languages.

I was always hoping to hear them.

And when I overheard people saying a few words I couldn't understand,

I would surptitiously follow them around so I could listen.

I just loved the sounds of those words.

...