6 Ways Gratitude Impacts Leadership
Before we begin…
This morning, I heard in the news that November was National Gratitude month. It got me thinking about gratitude and leadership. How they are connected, how gratitude is a driver of leadership. In fact, I’m convinced that every day is a day of gratitude in the life of a leader.
Let’s Talk Leadership!
Gratitude plays a significant role in leadership. If fosters trust and creates a positive culture. It strengthens relationships and builds engaged motivated employees. It impacts leadership. Here’s how:
Enhances Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Remember EQ? Those who express gratitude are more attuned to the emotions and contributions of others. This makes them more empathetic and relatable.
Strengthens Morale
When you recognize and appreciate others’ efforts, it boosts morale, motivation, and loyalty. People are more likely to go above and beyond when they feel valued.
Builds Trust and Loyalty
Gratitude fosters authenticity. When you genuinely acknowledge contributions, it builds trust and deepens connections.
Encourages a Positive Culture
Gratitude sets a tone for positivity and collaboration. As a leader, you create a ripple effect of appreciation and encourage others to follow.
Reduces Stress and Conflict
Gratitude promotes resilience by focusing on what’s going well, and reducing the impact of stress and conflict.
Inspires Innovation
When people feel appreciated they’re more likely to take risks, share ideas, and engage creatively.
Incorporating gratitude into leadership isn’t just about saying “thank you”—it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, respected, and empowered.
Do You Know…
you can incorporate gratitude every day in practical ways?
Personal Acknowledgement. Take time to personally recognize others for their contributions. Be specific about what you appreciate and why it matters, don’t just give generic praise.
Celebrate Small Wins. Highlight big and small achievements. It reinforces that every effort counts. This can easily be done at the start of meetings at work.
Handwritten Notes. A handwritten thank-you note stands out in a world cluttered by digital communication. It shows effort and thoughtfulness.
Public Recognition. Share your gratitude in public settings, team meetings, or social media. A good example would be to post in LinkedIn a shoutout to someone who has demonstrated exceptional work.
Foster Peer-to-Peer Gratitude. Encourage others to show gratitude to one another. It builds a culture where appreciation flows in all directions. You can make time during meetings, or actually create a “gratitude board.”
Give Unexpected Rewards. Surprise others with small tokens of appreciation or perks to show gratitude. You’ll be surprised how a small gesture goes a long way.
Listen and Act. Show gratitude by actively listening to feedback and acting on others’ ideas or concerns.
Lead by Example. Model gratitude in your daily interactions. Thank co-workers, supervisors, customers, be grateful and demonstrate gratitude is a leadership value.
Remember, gratitude isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about consistent, genuine acts that make people feel valued and respected.
Have a good weekend!
—-Dr. Aguilar
