Dos and Don’ts of Gratitude
I have never heard an employee complain their boss was too grateful. However, it is possible to show too much gratitude.
Don’ts Of Gratitude:
- Don’t dilute standards so you can express gratitude.
- Don’t focus exclusively on tasks.
- Don’t reduce urgency by suggesting people have arrived.
Dos Of Gratitude:
- Do notice character and effort. Say, “I appreciate that you stick to a job until it’s done.”
- Do mention impact. Say, “I respect that you energize others when you show up.”
- Do honor development. Leaders who wait for perfection and completion are ingrates.
Gratitude enlarges others. It’s normal to ask, “What’s in it for me,” but servant leaders ask, “What’s in it for others.” Appreciation instills confidence. When you’re grateful you tell people they’re heading in the right direction.
Become A Grateful Leader:
A person who deserves everything they get is an ingrate. Invite people to support each other and to help you. The people around good leaders want to support you. When you put weight on others, let them know they’re helping themselves and you.
Wisdom recognizes benefits received.
You stand on the shoulders of many supporters.
Overcome the magnetism of bad. You need to intentionally notice good when you’re grappling with big problems. If you pause, you’ll see people rising under pressure. Take that moment to encourage with appreciation.
Respect amplifies gratitude. The more authority you have the more powerful a small thank you becomes.
Tip: Make a list of everyone around you and schedule gratitude visits.
What blocks expressions of gratefulness?
What or who are you thankful for today?
Still curious:
Thieves of Thankfulness – 3 Traits That Inhibit Gratitude
(PDF) Thieves of Thankfulness: Traits that inhibit gratitude
