It’s easy to dwell on everything that didn’t go right in a day – the errands that took too long, the call you forgot to return or the endless to-do list. But what if, instead of focusing on what went wrong, we ended each day by reflecting on what went right?
That’s the idea behind the “3 Good Things” practice. It’s about pausing to appreciate the small moments we might otherwise overlook – the smell of fresh coffee on a rainy morning, hearing your favorite song by chance or a genuine laugh with a friend. The goal isn’t to ignore life’s challenges but to balance them by noticing the good that’s already there.
At Senior Lifestyle, this practice is helping residents and team members find joy in everyday moments. Throughout March, they’ve been sharing their own “3 Good Things” each day – like the happiness of getting a fresh haircut, savoring a really good peanut butter and jelly sandwich or sitting outside to feel the sun. These simple but powerful moments are reminders that happiness often comes from the little things.
Why It’s Worth Trying
It turns out that taking time to reflect on the good parts of our day can actually make a difference. Studies show that people who focus on positive moments tend to feel happier, less stressed and more connected to others. It’s a simple habit that can help shift our focus, showing us that even on the busiest, most exhausting days, there’s usually something worth appreciating
How to Make Gratitude a Habit
The “3 Good Things” practice is easy to start. All you need is a notebook, a pen and a few minutes before bed. Write down three things that made your day a little better, and try to be specific. Instead of writing “dinner was nice,” try something like, “I loved how comforting the soup tasted on a chilly evening” or “it felt good to cook a meal from scratch.” The more details you include, the more you’ll start to notice good moments as they happen.
This practice can also lead to more meaningful conversations. Instead of asking, “How was your day?” try asking, “What’s one good thing that happened today?” This small shift in how we ask questions can open the door to brighter, more uplifting conversations.
Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
For residents and team members at Senior Lifestyle, the “3 Good Things” practice has become a way to slow down and appreciate the moments that often go unnoticed. It’s a reminder that joy doesn’t always come from big events – it’s often hidden in the simple, everyday experiences that make life feel fuller and brighter.
If you haven’t tried it yet, consider ending your day by thinking of three good things – no matter how small. You might be surprised by how much there is to appreciate.