Thanksgiving week is here, and with it comes an opportunity to reflect on gratitude. But let’s be honest—this isn’t just about turkey, football, and family traditions. It’s about pausing long enough to appreciate the people and moments that shape our lives. For leaders, gratitude isn’t just seasonal; it’s a muscle that needs consistent exercise.
Let me tell you a story that cemented this truth for me.
The Day Gratitude Changed My Leadership
A few years ago, I was in the middle of one of those weeks where everything felt like it was on fire. Deadlines loomed, the team was stretched thin, and I was barely holding it together. At the end of a particularly grueling day, one of my team members handed me a handwritten note. It read, “Thank you for always listening to us. It means more than you know.”
I sat there holding that note, and it hit me—I had been so focused on the next task, the next problem, the next meeting that I hadn’t stopped to tell them thank you. That note became a turning point. It wasn’t just about gratitude; it was about making sure others knew they mattered.
Why Gratitude Should Be Intentional
Gratitude isn’t just something you feel—it’s something you do. Here’s why making it an intentional part of your leadership development is a game-changer:
- It Grounds You in Reality Leadership can be isolating. You’re responsible for decisions that affect others, and it’s easy to get lost in the stress of it all. Gratitude pulls you out of the chaos and helps you focus on what’s going right. It’s a mental reset that reminds you of the bigger picture.
- It Builds Resilience Leadership is full of challenges, but gratitude helps you reframe obstacles as opportunities. When you actively look for things to be thankful for, even on tough days, you’re training your brain to focus on solutions instead of dwelling on problems.
- It Strengthens Your Leadership Brand People follow leaders who make them feel valued. When you express genuine gratitude, you’re building a personal brand rooted in empathy, authenticity, and connection. These qualities inspire loyalty and trust in your team.
Ways to Practice Gratitude as a Leader
Intentional gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you.” It’s about creating habits that align with your leadership values. Here are a few ways to make gratitude a regular practice:
- Keep a Gratitude Journal: At the end of each day, jot down three things you’re grateful for. They can be small victories or big wins, but the key is to reflect on the positives.
- Start Meetings with Gratitude: Kick off team meetings by sharing something or someone you’re thankful for. It sets a positive tone and encourages others to do the same.
- Write Thank-You Notes: A handwritten note can go a long way in making someone feel appreciated. Take time to write a thank-you note to someone on your team, a mentor, or even a peer.
- Model Gratitude Publicly: Recognize team members’ contributions in front of others. Public acknowledgment not only boosts morale but also reinforces a culture of gratitude.
Gratitude and Leadership Development: A Personal Journey
For me, gratitude has become more than just a leadership tool—it’s a personal growth strategy. It’s taught me to slow down, to see people rather than just performance metrics, and to value the journey as much as the destination. Leadership isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s about the impact you leave on others. And gratitude is the key to leaving a positive legacy.
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take a moment and think about the people who’ve shaped your path—your team, your mentors, your family, and even the critics who’ve challenged you to grow. Then, go beyond just thinking about it. Say it. Write it. Show it.
Final Thoughts: Thanksgiving Every Day
The spirit of Thanksgiving shouldn’t end with the pumpkin pie. As a leader, you have the power to make gratitude a daily practice. And when you do, you’ll not only grow as a person, but you’ll also create a ripple effect that transforms your team, your workplace, and even your community.
So, this week, let’s start a tradition that lasts longer than the leftovers. Let’s make gratitude a habit, not just a holiday. Trust me, your leadership—and your life—will never be the same.
Happy Thanksgiving, and here’s to leading with gratitude all year long!
If you want more secrets to a thriving workplace, you can:
Listen to the Culture Secrets Podcast on your favorite platform.
Grab your copy of the book Culture Secrets.
Booking now for speaking and training events.
Join my private Successfully Ever After Facebook Group for trainings and information designed for success-seekers.
Check out my audio books: Get Noticed, Get Hired or When In Doubt, Delete It!
