We are coming off of another Thanksgiving week. Each November it is common to see many people posting on social media about what they’re thankful for. It’s great to see, but it also makes me wonder how grateful we are the rest of the year. As leaders, we need to make a habit of leading with gratitude and set an example for those who are watching us.
I was convicted today through a sermon entitled “Radical Thanksgiving.” The message made me pause and I realized that I take so much for granted without showing gratitude. That’s what happens to us, isn’t it? We get used to our blessings and begin to take them for granted. I don’t want that to define me and I don’t want that to define you.
So, how can you lead with gratitude?
1 – Say “thank you” more often.
This may seem obvious and even overly simple, but how often do you say “thank you” to your team members? Expressing thanks for even the most menial tasks can foster a culture of gratitude.
2 – Serve your team.
As you elevate to higher levels in an organization it’s easy to expect others to serve you, but the best leaders are those who serve their team members first and consistently. Even if you’re not “in charge,” serving other team members will give you greater influence and impact. By serving others you are showing gratitude for what they do and for who they are.
3 – Keep a “Gratefulness Journal.”
Whether you are used to journaling or not, this is a great practice. Simply start writing things down that you are thankful for. I’m confident you’ll be surprised how many items you have written when you really stop to think about it. This has the power to lift our spirits on difficult days and to humble you when you begin to think too highly of yourself.
As you enter a new week, take a look around you. Who are the people you’re thankful for? What material possessions are you thankful for? What situations (good and bad) are you thankful for? Don’t let gratefulness be a seasonal thing that only happens once each year. Schedule regular times to reflect on what you are thankful for and begin expressing your gratitude more frequently to those you lead.
Be Intentionally Great today!
