Are you experiencing a gratitude gap? Let me ask you this: as a leader, how often are you thanked by friends, colleagues or employees?
According to the Greater Good Science Center, “bosses, regrettably, were placed in the category of “never” being thanked by 35% of those polled.” But grateful leaders know that focusing on grievances depletes their gratitude. Instead, they nurture their own, internal gratitude.
Here are a few suggestions for filling your gratitude gap:
- Take stock of what you’ve been given: what skills you’ve acquired, what opportunities came your way, what successes you’ve enjoyed and what people have made your life better. In other words, deciding to focus on the positive aspects of your life is a primary step to being thankful.
- Appreciate the small things you have, the little gains that could have benefited someone else, but came your way. Everyone’s life can be a celebration of positive things. It’s a choice. Take a look back in time and revisit the journey you’ve been on and see how far you’ve come. Isn’t that worth being thankful? When stress rises, think of those things you’re thankful for and foster a better perspective.
- Recognize the relative nature of things. You likely know of people who are burdened by things that don’t affect you. There are always tougher stories out there. Being thankful for what you don’t have to deal with can complement the thankfulness for the good things you have.
The Company You Keep
When the topic of gratitude comes up with my coaching clients, we discuss the importance of identifying people that lift your spirits. Are they grateful people? My hunch is yes. Gratitude can be as contagious as the common cold. Surround yourself with people who practice gratitude to keep you on the right track.
What do you think? If you’re struggling with a gratitude gap, an executive coach can put you on the right path and encourage you along the way, helping you to train your brain to lean to the positive side of things. I’d love to help. You can call me at 561-582-6060, let’s talk. And as always, I can be reached here or on LinkedIn.
