Expressing Gratitude: The Path to Fully Experiencing It
Imagine starting work every day knowing that your efforts are truly appreciated and valued. That YOU are recognized for your commitment to the team and contributions to the mission.
Think you'd be firing on all cylinders and raring to go? I bet you would! Engagement and creativity would thrive. Right?
Let's flip the script: Are YOU cultivating that same sense of appreciation for the people on YOUR team?
Last week, we explored how gratitude experienced is better than gratitude explained. This week, we’re taking it a step further to delve into a transformative truth:
Unless you're expressing gratitude, you aren't fully experiencing it.
Gratitude Isn't Passive—It's Active
Gratitude isn't a passive feeling; it's an active practice. When you express gratitude, you transform a fleeting thought into a tangible act...that creates impact.
It's the difference between thinking "thank you" and saying it out loud. Between recognizing someone's efforts internally and letting them know they matter. Or between telling a peer that someone on your team is valuable and does amazing work...or telling them to their face!
Who Benefits When Gratitude Gets Expressed?
One of the most beautiful things about expressing gratitude is its far-reaching impact. Research demonstrates that three key audiences benefit whenever gratitude is expressed:
The Recipient of Gratitude: Naturally, the person to whom gratitude is expressed receives a profound benefit, especially when the appreciation is sincere and authentic. They experience increased feelings of self-worth and motivation, reinforcing their contributions to the team.
The Expressor of Gratitude: Neuroscience reveals that the very act of expressing gratitude has positive effects on the person giving thanks. This act of articulation enhances well-being, promotes positive emotions, and even alters brain chemistry to reinforce a more optimistic outlook. That's right, YOU benefit when you express gratitude to other!
The Witnesses of Gratitude: There's a third audience often overlooked - the bystanders. Observers who witness gratitude being expressed receive their own boost. It feels good to see gratitude expressed. Oh, and it communicates that this is a team or company that values and practices appreciation. It plants a seed of encouragement: "If I do great work and go above and beyond, maybe I'll be on the receiving end of this gratitude and appreciation."
This wide-ranging impact highlights why gratitude needs to be a consistent, intentional practice rather than a sporadic occurrence. Each expression not only strengthens relationships but also builds a culture where appreciation is the norm, fostering an environment of support and high morale.
Busting the Myth, "Of Course They Know..."
One big myth you might be entertaining is: "Of course they know I appreciate them."
But do they?
While you may feel appreciation internally, the magic really happens when it’s expressed. Silence can lead to assumptions and misunderstandings.
If that's the way you think, I certainly hope you don't try that nonsense at home! That would be like saying, "my partner and children know I love and appreciate them, I bought them gifts at Christmas--certainly they're good until next year." 🤦🏻🤦🏽♀️
Expressing gratitude clears the air and assures others of their value. It's not just about feeling grateful; it's about communicating it deliberately, authentically...and consistently!
Your Invitation to Action
Leaders, here's where you can make an enormous difference. By integrating gratitude into your leadership style, you set a tone that invites others to do the same. Gratitude is contagious! Begin meetings with appreciation, celebrate successes big and small, and make recognition an integral part of your culture.
How to Make Expressing Gratitude a Habit in 2025
Start with Consistency: Devote a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're thankful for, and choose one expression to share with someone else.
Diversify Your Thank You's: Use different methods—handwritten notes, quick emails, public acknowledgments, or even a simple text message. Make it personal and specific.
Lead by Example: Encourage a culture of gratitude by consistently recognizing and appreciating team members' contributions.
Create Gratitude Rituals: Implement regular practices such as "Thankful Thursdays" or "Grateful Fridays" to remind everyone to express thanks.
Reflect and Refine: Take time to consider how your expressions of gratitude are received and evolve your approach for maximum impact.
Experience It for Yourself
The most powerful way to understand the impact of expressing gratitude is to experience it firsthand. That's why I'm excited to invite you to join us for "Gratitude Encounter 2025: A New Beginning."
We're offering two sessions this week where you can explore, express, and experience gratitude firsthand. This isn't about me lecturing you about gratitude—it's about creating a space where you can discover its power for yourself.
Join us on January 7 or 9. RSVP here.
Or, if you'd like to explore how to create these experiences within your organization, let's talk about hosting a private Gratitude Encounter for your team. Learn more by clicking here.
Here's to a Year of Expressed Gratitude
As we step into 2025, let's make gratitude an active part of our leadership and life. Remember, "Unless you're expressing gratitude, you aren't fully experiencing it."
Express it. Feel it. Watch how it transforms your connections and your community.
Here's to a year of abundant gratitude and shared appreciation! I hope you'll share your experiences with me. I'm always interested!