The Top Three Lessons Learned from My Gratitude Practice

This time of year we are continually reminded of the importance of being grateful. If the events of the past couple of years have taught us anything, it is that a regular gratitude practice is a must if we want to remain engaged and fulfilled in our personal and professional lives.

In the past, I’ve kept daily gratitude journals where I have thoughtfully recorded those people, places, and things that I appreciate. These days, my journal has more sporadic entries, yet my gratitude runs deeper than ever. Here is what I’ve learned about gratitude and what I’m doing to keep this feeling alive in my business and personal life.

1.?????Say “Thank You.”

Saying “Please” and “Thank You” are likely the first lessons every parent teaches their children. This basic principle is critical today if we want our teams to remain engaged and happy. A simple gesture that takes only seconds can transform someone’s day.

I’ve made it a point to thank my team not only for the big projects they may have volunteered to do, but for the day-to-day tasks that are part of their job. People want to be seen and heard and what better way than to acknowledge their contributions on a regular basis with a heartfelt “Thanks” on a Zoom call or text.

2.?????Listen to Understand.

We live in a 24/7 world, which leaves little time to authentically connect with others. Our tendency is to rush to get as much done as possible so that we are seen as productive and “doing our jobs.”

If we want our teams to feel valued and appreciated, it is imperative that we carve out time to engage with them and listen to their concerns, their creative ideas, and even their complaints. Let’s face it. No organization is perfect and without the input from our most valuable asset – our people – growth will be stagnant.

?3.?????Get a New Pair of Shoes.

What I mean by this tip is in order to be truly grateful, it is helpful to put yourself in another person’s shoes to truly see life from a different perspective. Perhaps that team member whose rock star status is faltering is struggling to balance work, home schooling, or being a caregiver to aging parents. They need our compassion. They need a listening ear. They need understanding.

My commitment to express my gratitude, either publicly to my team or privately in my journal has transformed my life. Today, I’m less reactive when challenges arise. I’m calmer and kinder to myself and others. My empathy has increased as I attempt to see people and situations through a new lens.

As leaders, we must walk the walk of gratitude for our team. The Great Resignation is proof positive that we need to appreciate our people and let them know how valued they are – not just to our bottom lines, but to our lives.

If you like your gratitude with a side of pasta, take a listen to my BeBetter with Michael Kurland podcast with Chris Schembra .

If you want to jumpstart your gratitude practice, Darin Hollingsworth, Chief Gratitude and Accountability Officer and host of the Working Gratitude podcast can show you how. Take a listen.