As we enter the Thanksgiving season, a time often synonymous with gratitude, it’s an ideal moment for leaders and executives to reflect on the power of resilience and appreciation, particularly in times of change. My experience as an executive coach has shown that gratitude can be a pivotal leadership quality, especially during difficult times.
In the words of Michael Hudson from the Hudson Institute, “Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about taking care of those in your charge.” This perspective resonates deeply with the reality many leaders face when navigating complex and demanding situations. Gratitude, when embedded in leadership practices, not only strengthens relationships but fosters an environment where teams feel seen, valued, and motivated to give their best, even amid adversity.
As someone who spent two decades in personal and organizational development and served as Vice President of a multi-generational grease and industrial lubricant manufacturing business, I know firsthand that effective leadership in challenging times requires a delicate balance of empathy, competence, and courage. Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice. It’s a powerful tool that builds trust and resilience. When leaders take the time to recognize the efforts of their teams, even during high-stress periods, they inspire loyalty and encourage a culture of mutual support.
Incorporating gratitude into daily practices can transform how teams respond to pressure. It can be as simple as taking a moment at the end of each week to acknowledge a team’s hard work or providing specific, genuine praise for innovative solutions that keep operations running smoothly. As we move through this season of gratitude, consider how you can lead with an appreciative heart and a determined spirit.
Here are three tips to guide you:
Acknowledge Efforts Publicly and Privately
Recognize your team’s hard work both in meetings and through personal messages. For example, start each weekly team meeting by highlighting a specific achievement or send a personalized email or text to an individual team member acknowledging their recent contribution. Genuine, specific praise helps build a sense of belonging and reinforces positive contributions
Listen with Intent
Demonstrate appreciation by truly listening to your team’s ideas, concerns, and feedback. For instance, dedicate time during one-on-one check-ins to ask open-ended questions and actively listen without interrupting. This practice validates their input and fosters open communication and trust.
Express Gratitude Regularly
Make sharing gratitude a natural part of your leadership. For example, offer a genuine thank you to a team member who went above and beyond or take a moment during a busy day to express appreciation during casual conversations. Whether through a heartfelt thank-you note, a quick acknowledgment, or verbal praise, these small acts can significantly impact team morale and motivation.
Remember, leading with gratitude not only strengthens your team but also reinforces your leadership legacy with empathy and respect. This Thanksgiving, take time to embrace these practices and lead with a grateful and resilient heart.
Wishing you and your team a season filled with reflection, gratitude, and growth.
-KM
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