Cultivating Gratitude: A Leadership Practice for November

As November unfolds marking an unquestionable change in the seasons, it's a perfect time for leaders to embrace a practice that can transform not only their own lives but also the lives of those they lead. Gratitude, often underestimated in its power, is a quality that can foster positivity, resilience, and stronger connections within your team. Here are three ways leaders can practice and model gratitude this month and create a ripple effect of appreciation and well-being.

1.????? Take note.? The daily crush of meetings, emails, and Teams distractions can consume even the most disciplined leader. To pierce through this noise, start a daily practice of “catching” someone doing something right. Maybe a team member showed adaptability – one of your organization’s core values – by pivoting to a change in priorities. Perhaps another covered the workload of a fellow employee whose dealing with a bought of Covid. The more your eyes and ears catch moments like these, the more you’ll prime yourself – and find – positive ways your team is intrinsically supportive.

?2.????? Express appreciation.? Don't let an opportunity to express genuine gratitude go to waste. Make time this month to express appreciation for your team’s hard work, creativity, or dedication. Write a heartfelt note, have a one-on-one conversation, or carve out time in your team meetings for a brief gratitude circle. These gestures not only boost morale but also inspire others to adopt a similar attitude of thankfulness.

?3.????? Give back. Leading isn’t just about managing, it’s also about serving. November is an especially easy month to engage in a volunteer activity or initiate a charitable project with your team. When leaders actively participate in supporting the community, they send a powerful message about the importance of appreciation for what they have and compassion for others.

?As a leader, what you say and do is amplified. Take time this month to cultivate gratitude and set the stage for a more positive workplace. Setting aside time to create a culture of gratitude will help your team develop resilience long after the month has past.

Question: What are some ways that you can cultivate a culture of gratitude this month?

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Sheri Nasim?is President and CEO of?Center for Executive Excellence, a leadership consulting firm headquartered in San Diego, CA. She is the author of?Work On Purpose: How to Connect Who You Are With What You Do.?

Driven by the premise that excellence is the result of aligning people, purpose and performance, Center for Executive Excellence facilitates training in leading self, leading teams and leading organizations. To learn more, visit us today at?www.executiveexcellence.com?or subscribe?to receive?CEE News!