You Have to See This – An Experiment in Gratitude
Gratefulness turns unhappiness on its head.
People run toward gratefulness and away from ingratitude.
Thankfulness feels like love.
Ungratefulness feels like hate.Gratitude invites.
Ingratitude repels.
Gratitude transforms.
Think of someone who has been important in your life/leadership. Take out a piece of paper and write down why this person was so important.
When you’re done, if you dare, give that person a call and read your reflection to them.
Give them a call or pray for them if they have passed! Great post Dan! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your Family!
My hiring Manager out of college turned-out to be my mentor across six promotions and for the last 5 years of his retirement. I often reflect on the odd circumstances by which we met, I interviewed, became his go-to guy, then replacement him when he retired. We have dinner 5-6 times/year. It’s odd, I talk to him about how thankful I am for the chance he gave me; he’s so humble that he takes zero credit, claims he made a wise hire and simply put me in the right places to execute on my abilities. There are times I felt like he knew my capabilities and potential more than I did. His general approach defines being a servant leader, humble, well thought-out and grateful for everyone around him. Even in his retirement years, I look-up to him and hope to follow in his footsteps!
Wow! Thanks for sharing your story. One thing that stands out for me is the number of contacts in a year. We don’t need to have contact every week to make a difference.
Hi Dan. On the day before Thanksgiving, I gave every member of my team (just over 50 people) a handwritten note that started with, “I’m grateful for…” and one thing they contribute to the organization. I did it mostly for me, but it certainly went a long way with the team too. A challenging exercise, but worth the time and care it took in building the culture.
That is so cool, Sean. Gratitude seems to benefit both the giver and the receiver. 🙂 Congratulations on writing over 50 personal, handwritten notes.
Loved this! I really have appreciated these posts and that so many have concentrated on gratitude. Hard to be bitter when you are grateful. Thank you, Dan. I look forward to your posts daily.