On Gratitude

I got a letter in the mail the other day from an old friend. We went to college together, but we haven’t seen each other in some time. We do, however, hang out in the same internet space on a regular basis, and so we’ve kept in touch that way.?

She included a short note with the letter, which reads as follows, “I have embarked on an endeavor to engage in a tangible, active way of showing and sharing gratitude this year. Each day of the year, I handwrite a note to a person who has been important or made an impact at some point in my life. As a recipient of this letter, you are that person this day. I hope it blesses you as much as writing it blesses me!”

We don’t know sometimes how small gestures can make a big difference to the people around us. When I got the letter from Donna Desarro-Raynal , I happened to be contemplating some of the things I’ve learned while taking a professional break. Her letter both lifted me with its kindness, and helped me find clarity regarding my own sense of gratitude.

While I wouldn’t have chosen to leave my previous employer the way I did, I am grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to reflect, to learn, to reconnect with friends and colleagues, to travel, to spend time with family and friends, and to think about how I want to spend the rest of my career. I know that there are a lot of people in our communities who would not have had the chance to take a break, and I am exceedingly humbled and grateful to have been able to do so.

Authentic, simple gratitude is an underrated leadership tool, as well. In my experience, showing appreciation to people and teams, and meaning it, goes a long way towards reinforcing cultural values and building resilience and trust. It costs leaders very little to be humanly grateful, and returns a great deal.

I’ll close this post with an ask. I’ve had a lot of time to think about what’s important to me, and where I can add the most value. I want to do work that matters to communities and customers - that’s what excites me. I want to be part of an organization that’s poised to grow - I’m pretty good at helping enterprises take the next step. And I want to work with committed people - that’s the most fun part. If you know of a role like that, I’d love to hear from you, and I thank you in advance for your support.

And if there’s anything I can do to help you, never hesitate to ask.