I was at a bachelorette party last year when my best friend Lauren’s phone alarm went off during dinner. She smiled and announced, “Gratitude reminder!” and asked everyone at the table to share one thing they were grateful for that day. I felt awkward at first—speaking feelings aloud isn’t easy for me—but we each offered something and then moved on. Later that night Lauren told me how much this tiny daily habit had changed her perspective, and I found myself intrigued.
A few weeks later, after a particularly rough day, I decided to try it. I set a phone alarm for 10pm every night as a simple prompt to notice something good. It felt like a last-ditch effort to shift my mindset in the moment. Since then, the alarm goes off reliably and I say out loud, “Gratitude reminder!” Then Jeff and I each name one thing we appreciated that day. Sometimes it’s small and silly—like chocolate chip cookies—sometimes it’s a specific moment—“when Arlo gave me a kiss during Coco”—and sometimes it’s something broader, like our family or supportive neighbors.
Because the reminder is on my phone and it happens every night, we keep doing it even when we’re with other people and often invite them to join. Over time a few friends and family members have adopted the ritual too—my parents now do theirs during dinner most nights. That ripple effect is one of the things I love about such a simple practice.
What appealed to me most about Lauren’s version was its simplicity. There’s no lengthy mantra, no special journal required—just a brief pause prompted by a device I already carry everywhere. That small interruption gives me space to notice something positive, even on the hardest days.
Eventually, when Arlo is older, we plan to move the reminder to dinnertime so we can share as a family and expand the ritual. For now, late evening works well—after the day’s chaos, bedtime routines, and dishes, it feels like the right moment to reflect and close the day with gratitude.
If you’re navigating a challenging season or simply want a gentle way to bring more positivity into your life, try setting a nightly alarm right now. It’s an easy habit, takes seconds, and can quietly shift how you notice the good. Give it a week and see how it feels—you might be surprised at the difference.