A Pause for Gratitude

As we close National Gratitude Month, I want to reflect for a moment in the hope that some readers (assuming I actually have readers) might think about if, when, whether, or how they express gratitude. I try to offer appreciation whenever I see it, especially to those who might need it the most. I feel like I do this regularly, but not likely often enough.

A column in Inc. recently pointed out that “[r]esearch shows that expressing gratitude is?easier and more impactful?than many [people in business] might expect. Despite this, many struggle to properly show appreciation to others. By identifying (and following through with) appropriate ways to give thanks to your employees and customers, you can make a lasting difference for your business (and yourself).”

Appreciation in the workplace is critical to a successful team. I have written about this before (here, here, and here).

The Inc. piece offers suggestions on how to show appreciation at work. Examples include “[r]ecogniz[ing] their contributions and accomplishments regularly. Thank them?by name?and specifically and promptly for their work. Let them know you've seen the difference they've made for your business, and reward them accordingly.”

I have been known to hand out “High Five” notes to my colleagues to offer a shout-out in real time for a job well done. My colleagues at Curley Company celebrate their "wins and wows" each month. There are many other great examples of how colleagues can serve as great examples.

The master of wisdom Willie Nelson said, “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.”