Are You Thanking the Right People This Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a season of gratitude. It's a time to reflect and give thanks to those who've been part of your journey. But as a business owner or sales leader, have you paused to consider who you're really thanking? More importantly, are you including the one person you often overlook: yourself?

Let’s take a moment to reframe gratitude this year.

Gratitude for Your Team: The Backbone of Your Business

Your team is the engine that drives your business forward. Sales managers are hustling to hit targets. Sales reps are working leads. Support staff keep the gears turning. All these people make the business machine hum.

This Thanksgiving, thank your team for their hard work. Also, thank them for their dedication in overcoming challenges. Consider a simple gesture. A handwritten note. A personal "thank you" in the next team meeting. Or, a small gift to show your appreciation.

Recognition builds motivation and loyalty. A motivated, loyal team is a business's best asset in today's competitive world.

Gratitude for Family & Friends: Your Foundation of Support

Business ownership or leadership is not for the faint of heart. The long hours, high stakes, and constant demands don’t just affect you—they affect those around you. Your spouse, partner, kids, or close friends often hold you steady during tough times.

This Thanksgiving, take a moment to genuinely thank them. They may not grasp the pressures of your role. But, their patience and support are key to your success. Your family and friends are your quiet partners in this journey. Acknowledge their role in keeping you grounded.

Gratitude for Yourself: The Overlooked Element

Now, let’s talk about someone you probably forget to thank every year: you.

You’re the one steering the ship through calm and stormy waters alike. You’ve faced challenges, solved problems, and kept moving forward when it would’ve been easier to quit. Take a moment to celebrate the wins you’ve achieved this year—big or small. Thank yourself for showing up each day. For pushing through hard times. And for daring to take risks in pursuit of something greater.

It’s easy to focus on what’s left to do, what didn’t work, or what still feels uncertain. But this Thanksgiving, shift your focus. Celebrate your effort, resilience, and courage. Self-gratitude isn't indulgent. It's a tool to recharge your mind and motivate you for the next chapter.

The Power of Gratitude in Business

Why does gratitude matter in business? It’s simple: people want to feel valued. Appreciation creates a ripple of positivity and motivation. This is true for your team, loved ones, and yourself. Employees who feel appreciated work harder and stay longer. Family members who feel recognized for their sacrifices are more supportive. Acknowledging yourself builds the confidence and resilience to move forward.

Gratitude isn’t just about being thankful. It's about building relationships, deepening trust, and creating a culture of loyalty. And that has a measurable impact on your business outcomes.

A Thanksgiving Challenge: Take a Clarity Break

This Thanksgiving, I challenge you to take a clarity break. Spend some quiet time reflecting on three groups: your team, your loved ones, and yourself. Write down three specific things you’re grateful for in each category. Think about how each has helped you grow. Then, find ways to express your gratitude.

And most importantly, permit yourself to enjoy this time—without guilt or distractions. It is your chance to refocus and recharge. Then, you can lead with clarity and purpose in the months ahead.

As we enter the holiday season, remember: gratitude isn't just a feel-good exercise. It's a leadership skill. It strengthens teams, builds trust, and motivates people to do their best work. But it starts with you.

Enjoy the time to reflect, reconnect, and recharge. Happy Thanksgiving!