There’s something sacred about the moment everyone crosses the threshold after a full day of school, work, or service. Shoes are kicked off, backpacks land with a thud, and suddenly, your favorite people are all under one roof again. But how often do we let that precious reunion begin with complaints about long lines, difficult coworkers, or the latest personal battle?

What if we choose something better?

Meet The Good Stuff First Rule, a joyful little habit that invites more joy into your interactions from the start. The idea is simple: when you gather together at the end of the day, or really at any type of meetup, the first thing each person shares is something good.

No venting. No problem lists. Just pure, uplifting moments.

Picture your family circled around the dinner table or snuggled in the living room. One by one, everyone takes a turn. Your daughter’s eyes sparkle as she tells about the kind note her Primary teacher wrote her. Dad shares how he felt the Lord’s help during an important meeting. Your son laughs, recounting the silly face his friend made during recess. Even the little ones can join in with something as sweet as the cookies for dessert.

If you’re single and live with roommates or on your own. Every group gathering counts. It doesn’t matter if it’s lunch with a friend or just hanging out for a game night. Make your first impression with people during that experience count. Share the good things first.

Hearts open. Laughter comes easily. The evening begins in a spirit of gratitude. It’s great!

This habit aligns naturally with the gospel principle taught in Philippians 4:8: “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” By starting with the good stuff, we are literally choosing to think on lovely and praiseworthy things together.

It also echoes the Lord’s counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 59:7: “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.” And in Doctrine and Covenants 78:19 we read the beautiful promise: “He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundredfold, yea, more.”

This simple practice teaches us to notice and celebrate tender mercies throughout our day. It strengthens relationships as we rejoice together in small and simple blessings. And it sets a peaceful, positive tone that makes it easier to face challenges later with faith and unity.

The best part? The “good stuff” doesn’t have to be grand. A beautiful sunset on the drive home, an answered prayer, a delicious homemade lunch, helping a friend, or even the peaceful feeling that came during scripture study all count. What matters is choosing to lead with light.

In a world full of noise and negativity, choosing to start with the good stuff is an act of faith. It’s a small but powerful way to invite the Spirit, practice gratitude, and build better memories.

Here’s to brighter reunions, stronger families, and evenings filled with the kind of conversations that draw us closer to each other and to our Heavenly Father.