
With the constant drive to succeed and competition that many engage in every day, it makes Thanksgiving that much more significant. It’s the day to consider how lucky we really are, and to be grateful for it.
It’s good to pause and see if we are actually doing this as a common practice where we work as well. Many studies show that people appreciate praise and recognition of a job well done as much as, and sometimes more than, they do money. We need more than one day out of the year devoted exclusively to taking time out to be thankful.
Consider how many times a day you stop to look around and notice the good work of the people in your office. I remember early in my career working in a company where many people walked down the hall without looking up to say hello- needless to say a simple thank you was not at all a part of the culture. When this type of culture exists, how can an atmosphere of gratitude and appreciation be present?
Let this Thanksgiving be a day to appreciate even the smallest pleasures, but don’t let it be the only day. Studies show that people who show more gratitude are happier, more likely to exercise regularly, more likely to help others, and more likely to take steps to reach personal goals. Overall, they are more successful. Showing gratitude can decrease stress and depression. People love to be thanked for their efforts, and doing so can greatly change the morale of any workplace.
One of the most powerful phrases at work is, “thank you.” Take just one day this week and keep track of how many times you actually say that to the people you work with – it could change everything about the way your company does business.