We Like Writing Lists of Things We Like

There are those things we eat, make, read, and gush over that are just too good to keep to ourselves. Here, we resist the urge to use too many exclamation points and let you in on our latest crushes.

Today: Whether done in line, on the train, or in your head, writing lists of things you like will make you like things more—and like more things.

Writing lists of things you like: It sounds simple, and it is. There's no catch: When you're bored or blue, think about things that you like. "But I like so much!" you may be saying. You can focus on one type of thing or one period of time, like this morning. Jot down all the things, as miniscule or grand and as few or as many as they may be.

These little lists make every day feel a little more special—they remind us that, even in traffic or while waiting in line, there is good to dwell on. This is what we learned from poet Jacquline Suskin's new book, Go Ahead & Like It, and something we can really get behind: a low-effort way to make us smile that doesn't really feel like self-help but kind of is.

After flipping through Go Ahead & Like It—which feels like Suskin's personal scrapbook, with lists and photos and drawings—some of the editors were inspired to write lists and share them with you in hopes that it prompts you to do the same. You can share your lists in the comments if you'd like, or keep them safe and reference them when you want. Plus, Molly Yeh stopped by and joined in on the fun. Can you guess which is hers? (Hint: She really likes cake.)

First two images reprinted from Go Ahead & Like It (c) 2014 by Jacqueline Suskin. Photographs (c) 2014 by Shelby Duncan. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. All other photos by James Ransom.