It seems that every year Christmas comes just a little bit earlier than the one before. Halloween is now over and every store in the nation is transitioning to Christmas. The Halloween candy is being replaced by festively wrapped red and green chocolate kisses, and we are starting to see Christmas trees and holiday wreaths pop up in different places. However, I would encourage you to not forget the holiday between Halloween and Christmas. There is a very important day between spooky jack-o-lanterns and jolly St. Nick: Thanksgiving.
I know it may seem a little early for the reminder, but I want you to have the full month to STOP, CONSIDER, and REFLECT about where you are and the things you are thankful for today. Be mindful to take this time to express the gratitude you feel for the people around you in your organization or industry. I believe there is a definite link between gratitude and personal, professional, and organizational success.
I challenge you to be grateful for the things in your life, including your job, and you will see the impact that gratitude will have on others—as well as yourself.
5 Simple Ways to Show and Express Gratitude in the Workplace
- Say it out loud. It sounds simple, but you can express gratitude by simply saying “Thank You,” “Good Job,” or “I appreciate the help.” Verbally acknowledging the help of others is good for both you and those you acknowledge.
- Give thoughtfully. Bring coffee or hot tea to a coworker who made your job easier the day before. These little acts of kindness go a long way. Something as simple as their favorite beverage waiting at their desk can make a world of difference in someone’s day.
- Compliment sincerely. Make a point to compliment your coworkers and team members. Notice details, and be sincere and specific.
- Feed them. Give back to your organization by setting up a snack in the break room. There is a reason we have elaborate meals and special treats during the holidays… people like food!
- Be attentive. Take time to be attentive to other employees by truly listening to them. Being attentive to others shows humility. It shows you care about the people around you enough to listen.
There are many more ways to show gratitude and appreciation to others. By committing to these, you are setting yourself on a path to success within your organization. When you show gratitude to others it makes you feel better as well as the person on the receiving end. And without a doubt, when people feel better and are happier in the workplace, they are more productive and accomplish more!
“If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him. … We need not wait to see what others do.”
–Ghandi
In today’s workplace, sincere gratitude is not often shown, which is why it makes such a difference when it is. Make a habit to appreciate others and express gratitude—and don’t stop after Thanksgiving ends!
Question: What suggestions do you have for expressing gratitude?
