Cultivate Gratitude

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I once interviewed Stephane for a project management blog. Since then, every time I interact with him, he thanks me for this interview. At first, I felt embarrassed because I didn’t need to be thanked for years, but at the same time, I felt touched by his joy. It made me think of how behavior like this can help build trusting relationships.

What is gratitude?

The word ‘gratitude’ derives from the Latin gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness.

“Gratitude is associated with a personal benefit that was not intentionally sought after, deserved, or earned but rather because of the good intentions of another person” (Emmons & McCullough, 2004).

Gratitude is a way to express and communicate thankfulness to others.

Diplomas, hard work, opportunities, and networks can help you grow as a leader. But sometimes small gestures can make a big impact.

Why being grateful is important

Several research projects have proved that gratitude is associated with better health, positive emotions and building strong relationships.

How cultivating gratitude

Here are 3 ways to cultivate gratitude in your project teams.

Say “thank you”

Many years ago, a colleague in another firm we work with was leaving the project. On the morning of our meeting, a British colleague brought a nice (paper) card and asked us to write a note for her. This was a simple, genuine, and powerful gesture. You don’t need to buy dinner in a luxury restaurant. You need to express gratitude with your heart.

In the day-to-day rush of a project, we ask different people to help us. Keep track of these friends.

Once the project is finished, say “thank you” to each of them individually and mention how they helped you. This will elevate their self-esteem and show their value, helping them become more self-aware of their strengths.

For example: I am grateful for your insights when I didn’t know how to improve collaboration with A.

Keep a gratitude journal

The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley recommends regularly writing down 5 things you are grateful for. You need to be specific about why you are grateful. Focus more on people than things. Include unexpected events.

For example: I am grateful I bumped into B in the hallway and she mentioned this great project management training.

Thank someone every week

You can also initiate gratitude rituals in your project teams. It does not need to be big things.

For example: I am grateful to have collaborated with you on product X and to have learned how to present a sales pitch.

Gratitude is a gift.

Gratitude doesn’t mean thanking people once a year. It is cultivated over time. Being a grateful leader isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s a powerful lever for forging deeper human connections.

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others. - Marcus Tullius Cicero

What best practices can you share for being grateful?

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May you and your family stay healthy and happy -

Yasmina

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