A simple “Thank You” makes you happier, healthier and makes your organization run better, too. Robert Emmons, a professor at UC Davis, and one of the leading scholars in the positive psychology movement says that people who give thanks are happier and healthier. You can check out his new book, “Thanks! How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier”. Systematically cultivating gratitude, according to Dr. Emmons, can measurably change people’s lives. As appreciative leaders, we need to remember this and make it a regular practice to cultivate gratitude in our organizations. This is a good time of year to think about what you are appreciative for at your organization and how you are grateful for and to the people that you work with. Here are some ideas:

  • Take time to tell others what you appreciate about them and the work they have done.
  • Dedicate time at the next staff meeting to reflect on this as a group.
  • When others take the time to tell you how they appreciate you, make sure that you really listen and make note of that. It is not something to take for granted!
  • Develop some time to begin your “TaDa!” List (instead of a To Do List) about your accomplishments this year and the accomplishments of your organization.
  • Share your TaDa! List with others and figure out how you can build on your accomplishments in the coming year.

Being appreciative and cultivating gratitude is something that you should be working on year-round not just during the holidays. Make a commitment that being appreciative and cultivating gratitude will be an ongoing activity for you and your organization.

Author:   Dr. Lynn K. Jones

Certified Personal and Executive Coach

Dr. Lynn K. Jones is a Certified Personal and Executive Coach based in Santa Barbara, California and a sought after coach and consultant for organizations and individuals across the US.   Her doctoral work completed at the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University concerned organizational culture; she coaches, consults and trains organizations on what they need to do to create organizational cultures that are aligned with their vision and values using a process of Appreciative Inquiry.  She coaches individuals on achieving their reflected best selves.  An MSW@USC faculty member, Dr. Lynn K. Jones, MSW, DSW, CSWM, teaches Human Behavior and Social Environment.