This time of year gets me thinking about gratitude. Some of us this may come naturally, but for me I have to be intentional to focus my thoughts and be grateful.
Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good emotion or a trend that’s come and gone. It’s actually a game-changer when it comes to leadership. When I cultivate an attitude of gratitude, I improve my mindset and well-being, set a positive example for others, and create a more positive and productive work environment.
So, let’s look at how gratitude can positively affect our leadership.
Focused on Present
First and foremost, gratitude helps you stay grounded and focused on the present moment. As a leader, it’s easy to get caught up in the endless to-do lists, deadlines, and challenges that come your way. But when you take the time to pause and acknowledge the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s a supportive team, a loyal client, or even just a beautiful sunrise, you shift your perspective from scarcity to abundance. This mindset shift helps you navigate through tough times with grace and resilience and helps you make better decisions and lead with clarity and purpose.
Strengthens Relationships
Gratitude also strengthens your relationships with your team. You build trust and loyalty when you appreciate your employees’ hard work and contributions. Your team members feel seen, heard, and valued, and they’re more likely to feel motivated and inspired to go above and beyond for you and the company. In a Glassdoor survey they found that 81% of people are more motivated to work hard when their boss appreciates their work.1 Creating a culture of gratitude within your organization creates a sense of community and belonging, which can combat low morale and create a more positive and harmonious work environment.
Creates A Mindset
Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you” every now and then. It’s about embodying a grateful mindset in everything you do. It’s about taking the time to reflect on the positive aspects of your work and personal life, and practicing empathy and compassion toward others, especially during challenging times. Leading with gratitude sets the tone for a workplace where optimism, collaboration, and resilience thrive.
So, where do you start? Here are a few simple gratitude practices you can incorporate into your leadership style:
1. Start a gratitude journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice helps you shift your focus from what’s lacking to what you already have.
2. Express gratitude to your team: Make it a habit to recognize and appreciate your employees’ efforts and accomplishments regularly. Whether it’s a personal note, a public acknowledgment, or a small token of appreciation, these gestures can go a long way in boosting morale and strengthening your relationships with your team.
3. Lead with empathy: When faced with challenges or conflicts, approach them with empathy and understanding. Try to see things from your employees’ perspectives and show appreciation for their efforts and resilience in overcoming obstacles.
Remember, gratitude is a powerful tool that can transform your leadership style and elevate your team’s performance. So, embrace the power of gratitude, and watch as it transforms your leadership and team for the better. Need an extra resource to help you if you struggle with having an attitude of gratitude? Go here for a resource on winning the mental battle with gratitude. Lead Well.
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- https://www.glassdoor.com/employers/blog/employers-to-retain-half-of-their-employees-longer-if-bosses-showed-more-appreciation-glassdoor-survey/ retrieved 11/22/23
