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Are you happy? The Pursuit of Happiness in today’s hyperactive, super-stimulated, and over-medicated society seems to be subtitled with the phrase “Immediate Gratification” or “If it feels good do it.”

However, if we take a look around Wall Street or Main Street we can see where that mantra (motto) has gotten us. Under a looming dark cloud of a possible double dip recession (we’re not out of the storm, yet), Americans have been pulling back – living on cash rather than credit, and downsizing not super-sizing.

Blogs like Zen Habits top Time’s Best Blogs of the year list (a great blog, by the way) – and we are shooting off down the rabbit path toward minimalism and simplicity? But are we really? And where is it getting us?

Regardless of whether you like the edgy lines of modern minimalism or the classical comfort of cottage living – the bottom line is – we all actively pursue happiness in our lives. So do I.

The Happiness Inventory, or I prefer to call it “Contentment Quotient,” is something I started about 10 years ago. I used to fill it out every New Year but now I revisit it all year long. It keeps my priorities in check, gives me clarity in decision making, and helps me find (and keep) contentment.

If an opportunity crops up in my life – and it does not mesh with my Happiness Inventory – I say no to it. This is not easy to do. Sometimes I have to turn down a perfectly good opportunity (job, project, etc.) because I know it is not a part of my ultimate Happiness Plan.

The Happiness Inventory includes a 10 Question Inventory and information on how to narrow your focus for a more effective, contented, satisfied life.

In part 2 of the Happiness Inventory, I’ll be addressing women and effective weight management – and how it ties into your Happiness Plan.