The Three Good Things practice is a simple yet powerful way to nurture a more positive and grounded mindset. By noticing three good things that happened in a day and reflecting on why each of these good things happened, you start to retrain your attention — moving it gently away from what’s missing or stressful, and toward what’s meaningful and sustaining. Over time, this habit can increase gratitude, resilience, and a quiet sense of contentment.
This practice was developed by the Greater Good Science Center, based at the University of California, Berkeley. At This Life is Good, we love this practice because it’s a reminder that thriving doesn’t come from doing more — it begins with noticing what’s already good in your life. It’s also one of the GGSC’s most popular happiness practices.
How to Practice
Each day — preferably in the evening — take a few minutes to pause, notice, and reflect on three things that went well — big or small — and why they happened. It might be something you accomplished, a moment of connection (for example, a meaningful conversation), a moment of calm, or simply a fleeting sense of beauty or ease (like the way the light hit your morning coffee, a smile, sunlight, or a favorite song).
Over time, this simple reflection shifts your attention toward what’s working, grounding you in gratitude and helping you see that thriving often begins with noticing what’s already good.
When You’re Ready
Head over to the Three Good Things practice page → https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/three-good-things
- Navigate to the “Why to Try It” tab to learn more about the practice
- Then dive right in with the steps on the “How to Do It” tab
- Check out the “Quiz” tab for insight into how grateful (or not) you are for the good things in your life
Bonus
Check out this Science of Happiness podcast episode, where one woman reflects on her experience of noticing Three Good Things in her life.
