She had not made a lot of money, but she had not made a loss, and she had been happy and entertained. That counted for infinitely more than a vigorously healthy balance sheet. In fact, she thought, annual accounts should include an item specifically headed Happiness, alongside expenses and receipts and the like.
The protagonist reflects on her financial situation, realizing that while her earnings may not have significantly increased, she has also avoided losses. More importantly, her experiences have brought her joy and entertainment, which she values greatly. This perspective shifts her focus from mere monetary success to the overall quality of her life.
She suggests that traditional financial statements should incorporate a measure of happiness, emphasizing that emotional well-being is as crucial as financial stability. This idea challenges the conventional notion of success, merging financial assessments with personal fulfillment.