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Being Thankful as a Leader
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, now is the time to show your team how grateful you are for them.
It is also important to focus on gratitude for your own work ethic. Think about what you have accomplished in your career.
To be a thankful leader for your team beyond the holiday season, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind:
1. Build a Culture of Thankfulness
Being a thankful leader isn't only about sending occasional thank you cards. It is about creating a work culture founded on gratitude and support.
Find small ways to show your team how much you value them each day. This habitual thankfulness will make you a happier and more appreciative person.
Recently, our team read the book - The Customer Service Revolution by John R. DiJulius. After reading the book, we created a customer service vision. "The Solutions Start Here." We also implemented the "Fly High" award.
Each employee who receives the award will pick another member of the team to give it to next. Someone who demonstrates our customer service vision. Someone who shows extra effort in how they interact with other members of the team and customers.
You can try a similar award with your team. Share the success of an employee who has worked with a parent to meet their needs or provide extra support. Determine some simple ways that the entire team can celebrate successes.
2. Weed Out Negative Thoughts:
Some days are harder than others to maintain a mindset of thankfulness. It's natural to be negative in challenging situations. Try to balance these negative tendencies with positivity.
False statements of positivity are not recommended. This may cause team members to become bitter or frustrated. Instead, focus on the big picture and on building up your employees' strengths.
3. Consider an Attitude of Gratitude:
Attitude is the way you respond to an idea, person, or situation. Do you feel that the situation is good or bad? When focusing on gratitude, it can affect your attitude. If you are feeling stressed or upset, try to find things in your life that you appreciate.
What other ways do you focus on gratitude with your team?
Join in the conversation on our Facebook page.
Check out our course "Leading with Heart: How to Build Effective Teams" for more ideas.
