Are you in a rut? You are not alone…

Published on January 2, 2014 at 4:08 pm

Three Good Things

A Best Practice that improves your outlook

Are you in rut? You are not alone if you’ve been experiencing some tough days. It is not uncommon to experience a bit of an emotional slump while going though normal life transitions such as: graduating college, moving, ending a relationship, changing jobs, launching a life, emptying the nest or looking for a job. This simple exercise helps build emotional resilience and fights the blues while building a more optimistic outlook. Try it!  I have been doing this since 2006. My husband and I often do it together because it helps us keep a balanced perspective.

Research indicates that practicing gratitude correlates with rising levels of happiness. If practiced regularly, this simple exercise can significantly elevate levels of happiness.  When we count the good events and note the reasons they happen, we discover that much of the goodness that comes our way depends on where we place our attention.

Pay attention to the goodness and good things that happen throughout your day. Every morning or evening, write down or share your account of three things that went well, or three things for which you are grateful.  It’s even more enjoyable if you share this practice with a friend, family member or co-worker. Try it out for a week. It’s a good habit that’s hard to break because it’s simple and it just feels good.

List or share with someone 3 positive events or 3 things for which you are grateful…

My own examples of good things or things for which I am grateful.

  1. My husband made coffee and brought it to me this morning.
  2. I saw the cutest baby on my while on my morning walk.
  3. A friend thanked me for helping her kid with his resume.
  4. My Encore Career presentation was well received.
  5. My tomatoes are thriving!
  6. I made a delicious meal last night.
  7. I’ve been invited to speak to a group of college career counselors.
  8. I have a new client that appreciates my insightfulness.
  9. A friend called me out of the blue.
  10. My friend from India sent me a Happy New Year text!
  11. I walked 5 miles this morning.
  12. I had the courage to ask someone for a favor.

Now you try it. Send me your list!


This post was written by Lisa Jacobson

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