Thanksgiving is right around the corner.  Maybe you have a tradition of sharing what you are thankful for around the table.  This is a great idea, but why do we have to limit it to one day?

               Before I go any further I must confess this is an area I have to be very intentional to develop.  Each morning when I get up as I shuffle my feet on the floor and make my way to the bathroom I say “thank you for a new day”.  (Not out loud though or I’d wake up my wife. 😊)  Throughout the day, I choose to be grateful for even little things.

               Maybe you are like me and gratitude does not come naturally for you.  If so, I will provide a couple ideas to help you grow in this area and one of the biggest benefits.

Gratitude Journal

               I don’t have a specific journal dedicated to what I am thankful for, but years ago I learned a discipline.  I will journal at the beginning of the day about what happened the day before and will write what I am thankful for, either that day or from the previous day.

You could do something like what I do or it can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to write down three things that you’re grateful for.  Whether it’s a supportive team, a successful project, or even just a beautiful sunrise.  Taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate these things can have a profound impact on our overall mindset and, therefore, our leadership.

Be Present

               My mind is often going fast and furious.  Because of this, I often fail to be fully present with those I am with.  A practical way to live out gratitude is when we are fully attentive to those in our presence.

If I pay attention with eye contact and active listening I am unconsciously appreciating and valuing the people I am with.  My actions express gratitude for being with them. When I can fully engage with and enjoy experiences, I appreciate the people I am with and life more.  As a leader, slow down, be present with your team, and express your appreciation.

Strengthen Relationships

Maybe your mom reinforced the importance of please and thank you.  Thank you is a simple way to appreciate others and strengthen the relationship.  Expressing gratitude benefits the person receiving the acknowledgment and strengthens the relationship between the giver and the recipient.  As a leader, showing gratitude can build trust, open communication, and help team members feel valued.  Team members who feel valued are likely to perform at a higher level.

Which of these habits do you need to develop this week?  Let’s commit to developing a habit of gratitude.  Let’s take the time to acknowledge and appreciate the good things in our lives, and see how it can positively impact our leadership and overall well-being.  Lead Well!

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