A colleague asked me an interesting question, "Do you see life from the perspective of the glass being half full or half empty? Ordinarily the answer helps define whether we live our lives as optimists (the glass is half full) or as pessimists (the glass is half empty) — but let’s be extraordinary. The question really inquires about how we approach problems.

Before we answer the question let's ask, “What’s in the glass?” Only then does it matter whether it’s half empty or half full.

When we consider the situation it becomes obvious "The glass is refillable." So does it matter if it's half full or half empty? For example, if your bank balance is zero but you can replenish the funds, why be concerned?

I know I’m nit picking now, but in the interest of full disclosure, “How big is the glass?” If it’s a teeny tiny shot glass, do we really care how much is in it?

"Is the glass clear or opaque?" If you can’t see how much is or isn’t in it, is there an issue? Is that also true of how we view life?  If there are no negative indications do we project a positive future, and vice versa? 

Finally, “Exactly whose glass is it?” If it’s not our glass why are we meddling in someone else's business?

It's fascinating to watch how our thoughts influence our perspective.

Is your glass half full or half empty?