The science behind our “What’s Good” movement

What’s good?

Welcome to another edition where we explore the fascinating science behind why asking "What's Good?" isn't just feel-good fluff – it's transformative neuroscience in action. Today, we'll discover how curiosity and gratitude literally rewire our brains for the better. We'll also:

• Explore groundbreaking research on gratitude's effects

• Learn why curiosity makes us smarter and happier

• Take on a science-backed gratitude challenge

Fireflies

Our synchronizing friends are back with some brilliant minds whose work illuminates the science of goodness:

• Dr. Robert Emmons, the world's leading scientific expert on gratitude, shares decades of research through his lab at UC Davis. If you’re looking for something to read, start with his book, Thanks!

• The Greater Good Science Center at Berkeley offers free resources backed by cutting-edge research on well-being

• Follow Dr. Laurie Santos on social media for evidence-based happiness insights from Yale's most popular course ever

• New firefly feature: Podcast recommendations. Gratitude and curiosity both lead to change and help us navigate change. On Slight Change of Plans, host May Shankar blends compassionate storytelling with the science of human behavior to help us understand who we are and who we become in the face of big change.

What’s Good merch

Sport your curiosity proudly! Visit The What’s Good Store to grab gear that sparks conversations about gratitude.

The science of seeing the good

Here's what happens in your brain when you ask "What's Good?": Gratitude activates the hypothalamus, which controls crucial bodily functions like sleep and metabolism. It floods your system with dopamine and serotonin – the feel-good neurotransmitters that help combat anxiety and depression.

Meanwhile, curiosity triggers the release of dopamine in a different way, activating reward circuits that make learning and memory formation more effective. When you're curious, your brain becomes like a sponge, better at absorbing and retaining information.

Studies show that:

• People who practice gratitude report significantly higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction compared to those who don't

• Cultivating curiosity and gratitude is associated with better health outcomes and psychological well-being.

• Both traits together create an upward spiral of well-being

The science is clear: asking "What's Good?" isn't just a nice practice – it's a powerful tool for rewiring your brain toward resilience and joy.

A scientific examen

Today's reflection practice is based on neuroscience. Find a quiet moment and engage these three scientifically-validated questions:

1. What made my neurons fire with joy today/this week? (This helps consolidate positive memories)

2. What challenged my brain's negativity bias? (This builds resilience pathways)

3. What am I curious to learn or experience tomorrow/next week? (This primes your brain for positive expectancy)

Bonus Step: share your own “what’s good” here. Social connection amplifies the benefits of gratitude practice!

Spread goodness

The neuroscience of generosity shows that sharing good things with others activates pleasure centers in our brains. Forward this email to friends who might be curious about the science of goodness, or who could use some evidence-based joy in their lives. They can subscribe below.

disclaimer

Some of the links included in this newsletter are affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small percentage of the sale if you purchase something through these links. Rest assured, if The What’s Good Project endorses a product or service, it is from personal experience.