THE IGFY NEWSLETTER
Want to Hit the Reset Button on 2025?
We're just two weeks into the New Year, and many people are already asking for a do-over.
Let's be honest… for millions of people, THIS is NOT how they imagined 2025 starting off. With wildfires raging across California, thousands evacuated from their homes, and communities facing devastating losses, the year has begun with unprecedented challenges.
On January 4, Turo CEO Andre Haddad captured what many were feeling after the horrific attacks of New Year's Day:
2025 is off to an awful start. While I mourn today, I also remain committed to pioneering and sustaining a strong, secure, trustworthy marketplace for tomorrow.
His words resonate because they acknowledge both the pain of the present and the possibility of the future. That's a common theme… trust me, I get it.
While it's not physically possible to go back in time two weeks and restart 2025, you can make a fresh start now. Right here. Today. And gratitude might be exactly the tool you need for this reset.
Why Gratitude is Your Reset Button
Think of gratitude as your personal reset button. Not because it changes your circumstances, but because it changes your perspective. And perspective changes everything.
When you practice gratitude, three powerful shifts happen:
1. Your Focus Shifts
Instead of fixating on what went wrong, gratitude gently guides your attention to what's still going right. It's not about ignoring challenges – it's about remembering that challenges aren't the whole story. There's always something working, something solid to build upon.
2. Your Perspective Expands
Gratitude helps you see the bigger picture. Every setback contains seeds of opportunity. Every difficulty carries lessons that make you stronger. When you're grateful, you start noticing resources and possibilities you might have missed while focused on problems.
3. Your Resilience Grows
Grateful people aren't just more optimistic – they're more resourceful. Why? Because gratitude connects you with your strengths, your support system, and your past successes. It reminds you that you've overcome challenges before, and you can do it again.
Making Your Fresh Start Today
Here are three ways to use gratitude as your reset button:
1. Start Where You Are
Take 5 minutes to list three things that ARE working right now.
Express appreciation to someone who's helped you recently.
Acknowledge your own resilience in facing challenges.
2. Build New Momentum
Create a daily gratitude ritual (even 2 minutes makes a difference).
Share your appreciation with someone every day.
Look for unexpected blessings, especially in difficult situations.
3. Connect Through Gratitude
Reach out to someone else who might need encouragement.
Share what you're learning from current challenges.
Build a community of appreciation around you.
Remember: Progress Over Perfection
A fresh start doesn't mean everything suddenly becomes perfect. It means you choose to begin again, with renewed perspective and purpose. Gratitude gives you that power – not just once, but every single day.
Like Andre Haddad, we can acknowledge our current reality while remaining committed to creating a better tomorrow. And gratitude helps us bridge that gap.
Ready to reset? Start with gratitude. Start today. Start now. If you need help, please contact me.
Experience the Power of a Grateful Reset
Join us for the next Gratitude Encounter to explore how to turn gratitude into a practical tool for transformation in 2025. You can RSVP here.
If you're ready to take immediate action TODAY (Tuesday, January 14), there is still time to join the 2025 Kickoff Session of 30 Days IN the Power of Gratitude or DM me. We started yesterday and today IS the last day to join.
I'm grateful for you and cheering for you and your fresh start now!
Expressing Gratitude: The Path to Fully Experiencing It
Imagine starting work every day knowing that your efforts are truly appreciated and valued. That YOU are recognized for your commitment to the team and contributions to the mission.
Think you'd be firing on all cylinders and raring to go? I bet you would! Engagement and creativity would thrive. Right?
Let's flip the script: Are YOU cultivating that same sense of appreciation for the people on YOUR team?
Last week, we explored how gratitude experienced is better than gratitude explained. This week, we’re taking it a step further to delve into a transformative truth:
Unless you're expressing gratitude, you aren't fully experiencing it.
Gratitude Isn't Passive—It's Active
Gratitude isn't a passive feeling; it's an active practice. When you express gratitude, you transform a fleeting thought into a tangible act...that creates impact.
It's the difference between thinking "thank you" and saying it out loud. Between recognizing someone's efforts internally and letting them know they matter. Or between telling a peer that someone on your team is valuable and does amazing work...or telling them to their face!
Who Benefits When Gratitude Gets Expressed?
One of the most beautiful things about expressing gratitude is its far-reaching impact. Research demonstrates that three key audiences benefit whenever gratitude is expressed:
The Recipient of Gratitude: Naturally, the person to whom gratitude is expressed receives a profound benefit, especially when the appreciation is sincere and authentic. They experience increased feelings of self-worth and motivation, reinforcing their contributions to the team.
The Expressor of Gratitude: Neuroscience reveals that the very act of expressing gratitude has positive effects on the person giving thanks. This act of articulation enhances well-being, promotes positive emotions, and even alters brain chemistry to reinforce a more optimistic outlook. That's right, YOU benefit when you express gratitude to other!
The Witnesses of Gratitude: There's a third audience often overlooked - the bystanders. Observers who witness gratitude being expressed receive their own boost. It feels good to see gratitude expressed. Oh, and it communicates that this is a team or company that values and practices appreciation. It plants a seed of encouragement: "If I do great work and go above and beyond, maybe I'll be on the receiving end of this gratitude and appreciation."
This wide-ranging impact highlights why gratitude needs to be a consistent, intentional practice rather than a sporadic occurrence. Each expression not only strengthens relationships but also builds a culture where appreciation is the norm, fostering an environment of support and high morale.
Busting the Myth, "Of Course They Know..."
One big myth you might be entertaining is: "Of course they know I appreciate them."
But do they?
While you may feel appreciation internally, the magic really happens when it’s expressed. Silence can lead to assumptions and misunderstandings.
If that's the way you think, I certainly hope you don't try that nonsense at home! That would be like saying, "my partner and children know I love and appreciate them, I bought them gifts at Christmas--certainly they're good until next year." 🤦🏻🤦🏽♀️
Expressing gratitude clears the air and assures others of their value. It's not just about feeling grateful; it's about communicating it deliberately, authentically...and consistently!
Your Invitation to Action
Leaders, here's where you can make an enormous difference. By integrating gratitude into your leadership style, you set a tone that invites others to do the same. Gratitude is contagious! Begin meetings with appreciation, celebrate successes big and small, and make recognition an integral part of your culture.
How to Make Expressing Gratitude a Habit in 2025
Start with Consistency: Devote a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're thankful for, and choose one expression to share with someone else.
Diversify Your Thank You's: Use different methods—handwritten notes, quick emails, public acknowledgments, or even a simple text message. Make it personal and specific.
Lead by Example: Encourage a culture of gratitude by consistently recognizing and appreciating team members' contributions.
Create Gratitude Rituals: Implement regular practices such as "Thankful Thursdays" or "Grateful Fridays" to remind everyone to express thanks.
Reflect and Refine: Take time to consider how your expressions of gratitude are received and evolve your approach for maximum impact.
Experience It for Yourself
The most powerful way to understand the impact of expressing gratitude is to experience it firsthand. That's why I'm excited to invite you to join us for "Gratitude Encounter 2025: A New Beginning."
We're offering two sessions this week where you can explore, express, and experience gratitude firsthand. This isn't about me lecturing you about gratitude—it's about creating a space where you can discover its power for yourself.
Join us on January 7 or 9. RSVP here.
Or, if you'd like to explore how to create these experiences within your organization, let's talk about hosting a private Gratitude Encounter for your team. Learn more by clicking here.
Here's to a Year of Expressed Gratitude
As we step into 2025, let's make gratitude an active part of our leadership and life. Remember, "Unless you're expressing gratitude, you aren't fully experiencing it."
Express it. Feel it. Watch how it transforms your connections and your community.
Here's to a year of abundant gratitude and shared appreciation! I hope you'll share your experiences with me. I'm always interested!
Gratitude Experienced is Better Than Gratitude Explained!
Last week, we talked about hope growing in the fertile soil of gratitude. If you missed it, you can read it here.
Let's dig in a little deeper and get our hands dirty as we talk about cultivation - because gratitude, like any living thing, grows best through experience rather than explanation.
Think about the last time someone told you to "be grateful." How did that make you feel? Now compare that to a moment when you naturally felt a wave of appreciation wash over you. The difference is striking, isn't it?
Here's the thing: you can't lecture people into gratitude any more than you can lecture a seed into becoming a flower.
What you can do is create the conditions where gratitude naturally emerges and thrives.
I see this play out in organizations all the time. Companies that simply add "gratitude" to their value statements or mandate appreciation exercises often find their efforts falling flat. But those who focus on creating authentic opportunities for people to experience and express gratitude? They're the ones who see real transformation.
Gratitude IN Action
During a leadership team meeting, instead of starting with the usual status updates, the CEO began by sharing a specific moment from the previous week when a team member's work made a significant difference.
The share wasn't planned or scripted - just a genuine expression of appreciation.
The energy in the room shifted instantly. Others began sharing their own stories of gratitude, and suddenly, what could have been another routine meeting became a moment of real connection and recognition.
That's gratitude experienced, not explained.
The beauty of this approach is that it's both simple and profound. You don't need elaborate programs or complicated frameworks.
What you need are intentional moments that allow gratitude to emerge naturally:
Start meetings by sharing wins and appreciations.
Create space for team members to recognize each other's contributions.
Celebrate small victories as well as big achievements.
Make appreciation visible and tangible in your daily operations.
But here's the key: these aren't items to check off a list. They're opportunities to cultivate experiences that people can feel in their bones.
Creating Experiences On Your Team
So, how can you begin creating these gratitude experiences in your organization?
Here are some practical ways to start:
Create "Appreciation Moments" Instead of rushing into agenda items, open your next team meeting with this simple question: "What's something someone in this room did that made your work better this week?" Then wait. The first few seconds of silence will be worth the authentic sharing that follows.
Make it Visual and Tangible Start a "Gratitude Wall" where team members can post notes of appreciation. The key isn't the wall itself - it's the moment someone takes to reflect and write, and the feeling another gets when they discover a note about them.
Build Natural Triggers Connect gratitude to existing routines. End your one-on-ones by sharing one thing you appreciate about the other person's contribution. Send a quick voice message or text when you notice something worthy of recognition, right in the moment.
Let it Grow Organically Remember, you're not implementing a program - you're planting seeds. Some will take root quickly, others might need time. The goal is to create conditions where gratitude flourishes naturally.
Invitations To Action
The most powerful way to understand the difference between gratitude explained and gratitude experienced is to experience it yourself. That's why I'm excited to invite you to join us for "Gratitude Encounter 2025: A New Beginning."
We're offering three sessions where you can explore, express, and experience gratitude firsthand. This isn't about me lecturing you about gratitude - it's about creating a space where you can discover its power for yourself. Join us on January 3, 7, or 9 RSVP here.
Here's the truth: you can read about gratitude all day long (even in newsletters like this one), but nothing compares to the moment you actually experience it. It's like the difference between studying a map and taking the journey yourself.
As you step into 2025, I encourage you to move beyond explaining gratitude to creating opportunities for people to experience it. Start small, keep it authentic, and watch how it naturally grows and spreads.
Want to experience this difference for yourself? Join us for one of our Gratitude Encounter 2025: A New Beginning sessions on January 3, 7, or 9.
Or, if you'd like to explore how to create these experiences within your organization, let's talk about hosting a private Gratitude Encounter for your team. Learn more here.
Remember: Gratitude experienced is always better than gratitude explained. The only question is, when will you start creating these experiences?
Here's to growing gratitude together in 2025! May it be the fertile soil in which hope grows in your life, team, and company!
Why Every Successful Strategy Needs Hope (And How to Grow It)
Hope is not a strategy.
You've likely heard this phrase, perhaps in a business meeting or planning session. It's often used to dismiss optimism in favor of concrete action plans.
And while it's true that hope alone won't achieve your goals, here's what's equally true: any strategy without hope is like trying to grow flowers in concrete. It might look good on paper, but it lacks the essential element needed for real growth and transformation.
As we approach the beginning of 2025 — a time when many leaders and companies are introducing their strategy for the new year — let's explore something that's both timely and timeless: the vital role of hope in creating meaningful change and sustainable success.
Hope: An Essential Foundation
Think about it. Behind every great achievement, every positive transformation, and every successful venture, you'll find hope.
Hope is the fuel that powers perseverance, the spark that ignites innovation, and the foundation that supports lasting change.
And here's something I've discovered: hope grows best in the good soil of gratitude.
When you cultivate gratitude – when you intentionally look for and acknowledge the good in your life – you create fertile ground where hope can take root and flourish. This isn't just positive thinking; it's practical wisdom backed by experience and research.
In my work with organizations and individuals over the years, I've noticed something remarkable. Those who take time to acknowledge and appreciate what's working – even in challenging circumstances – are better positioned to envision and create positive change. They're more resilient, more innovative, and more likely to succeed.
Why?
Because gratitude does something powerful: it shifts our focus from what's missing to what's present. From what's broken to what's working. And in that shift, we find the seeds of hope.
Hope Builds A Bridge to the Future
Think of it this way: when you're planning your strategy for 2025, you're essentially creating a roadmap to a better future. That better, brighter future fuels hope and inspires action.
But before you can effectively chart that course, you need to know where you are. That's where gratitude comes in. It helps you take honest stock of your current position – not just your challenges, but your assets, your strengths, and your successes.
As you prepare to launch your 2025 initiatives, consider this: What if you started with gratitude? What if, before diving into strategies and action plans, you first created space to acknowledge what's working, celebrate your team's strengths, and recognize the foundation you've already built?
This isn't just a feel-good exercise – it's strategic groundwork that creates the conditions for hope to flourish and new possibilities to emerge.
I invite you to experience this powerful approach firsthand in one of two ways:
Join us for "Gratitude Encounter 2025: A New Beginning" – three opportunities to join these special public sessions where we'll explore how gratitude can set the stage for your best year yet. We're offering three opportunities to participate and each is set up as a LinkedIn event.
Choose the date that works best for you and RSVP at: https://kevinmeet.com/NB2025
OR
Consider hosting a private Gratitude Encounter™ for your team or organization. These custom sessions are designed to help your group start the new year from a foundation of appreciation and possibility. It's a powerful way to align your team and energize your 2025 strategy. You can learn more and schedule your session here.
Hope and gratitude are the twin anchors of transformational change. Gratitude grounds us in what is, while hope lifts us toward what could be.
As this year draws to a close, remember: hope grows IN gratitude! This isn't just a catchy phrase – it's a proven path to meaningful change and sustainable success. When you take time to notice and appreciate what's working, you create fertile soil for your future aspirations to take root.
Whether 2024 was your best year yet or one filled with challenges, there are always seeds of goodness waiting to be acknowledged. As you look toward 2025, I invite you to start with gratitude. Join us for one of our January Gratitude Encounters, where together we'll create the foundation for a hope-filled and successful new year.
Here's to growing hope through gratitude in 2025!
Leading Across the Threshold: Making Your 2025 Transition Count
Picture yourself standing in a doorway. Behind you lies the familiar territory of 2024 – the challenges you've conquered, the victories you've celebrated, the lessons you've learned.
Ahead stretches the unexplored landscape of 2025, filled with possibility and potential.
This moment is not just the start of a new calendar year; it's a chance to use gratitude to reflect on your journey and inspire your future.
You're there now! Standing at the pivotal point between what has been and what could be.
As we approach the final days of 2024, many leaders are already planning their strategies for the year ahead.
Before you rush headlong into your next ambitious goals, what if you pause and consider how gratitude can be your most powerful ally in crossing the threshold into a new year of possibilities.
The Power of the Pause
Think about it: crossing a threshold requires both awareness and intention. You don't stumble blindly through an important doorway – you notice it, pause, and choose how to step through.
The same is true as you transition from one year to the next. Gratitude offers you that perfect pause point, allowing you to honor where you've been before stepping boldly into where you're going.
Looking Back with Appreciation
When you reflect on 2024 through the lens of gratitude, you discover more than just memories. You uncover:
Lessons that shaped your leadership
Challenges that revealed your resilience
Relationships that deepened your impact
Victories that confirmed your capabilities
As Melody Beattie reminds us,
Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
Your Support Squad
Your leadership journey is made possible by others – mentors, team members, partners, and friends who light the way. Taking time to acknowledge these vital relationships doesn't just feel good; it strengthens the connections that will help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of 2025.
Welcoming What's Next
Gratitude isn't just about looking back – it's about embracing what's ahead with hope and courage.
When you approach the future with appreciation, you:
Embrace opportunities rather than fixate on obstacles.
Welcome challenges as valuable opportunities for growth and personal development.
Approach change with unwavering confidence and clear vision.
Build momentum for bold moves and new ventures.
T.S. Eliot realized, "Every moment is a fresh beginning."
As you stand at the threshold of 2025, embrace gratitude as your guide to making that beginning meaningful and purposeful.
Your Invitation
Ready to cross the threshold into 2025 with intention and appreciation?
Join us for a special edition of The Gratitude Encounter: 2025 A New Beginning. In this powerful session, I'll guide you to:
Celebrate your journey through 2024.
Honor those who've supported your path.
Welcome the bold possibilities ahead.
Choose from multiple sessions in the first week of January 2025. Register now to secure your spot and start your year IN the Power of Gratitude.
Custom Gratitude Encounters for Your Team
Want to give your team a powerful start to 2025?
We customize Gratitude Encounters for organizations looking to energize your Sales Kickoff, Vision Casting, or Team Building events. These sessions create meaningful connections, deepen appreciation, and build momentum for your 2025 objectives. Contact me to learn how we can design a custom experience for your team.
Gratitude as the Art of AND: Embracing the Beauty of Paradox
It’s possible that the biggest misconception about gratitude is the belief that it's an either-or proposition. But what happens when we discover the real power of gratitude is actually the art of AND?
Do you even find yourself stuck in the binary thinking trap of either everything is great, or everything is terrible?
Life is rarely that simple. The truth is, we can be struggling in some areas and thriving in others. We can grieve the loss of something or someone dear while also appreciating the beauty and goodness they added to our lives.
Personally - Embracing the Paradox
Maybe you've experienced times of struggle and hardship this year -- maybe you're experiencing them now. You may find yourself enveloped in darkness now and feel there is nothing to be grateful for. But even in the midst of struggle and hardship, gratitude can help you find a glimmer of hope.
As Rumi so eloquently put it, "The wound is the place where the light enters you." Gratitude helps us find the light in the darkness, even when it feels like the darkness is all-consuming.
I've found myself in this exact situation recently. Reflecting on the past year, I've faced challenges that persist, but I'm also very grateful for the opportunities that have come from them.
It's not either-or; it's both-and. I can acknowledge the pain and still appreciate the growth.
My friend, John Horn, SHRM-SCP, MPA, recently shared a powerful insight that resonated with me. He reflected on a difficult day with his adult kids and realized the importance of appreciating their time together, despite his frustrations.
As John so eloquently put it, "Savoring the moments means taking both the good and the challenging ones."
His words reminded us that gratitude is not about ignoring difficulties, but recognizing the beauty in everyday moments.
Interpersonally - Seeing Strengths Amidst Quirks
Certainly you’ve worked with someone who drove you crazy, but also happens to be a genius at what they do. Or maybe it's a team member who always seems to find the one thing that's going wrong, but also has a heart of gold.
The truth is, we're all quirky, and we all have strengths and weaknesses.
Gratitude helps us shift our focus from the annoyances to the unique contributions each person brings.
As Brené Brown so eloquently puts it, "You are imperfect, and you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging." Gratitude helps us see the worthiness in ourselves and others, even amidst the quirks and imperfections.
My friend, Nicole Glocke, recently wrote a beautiful post about the interplay of sonder and gratitude in the workplace. She noted that,
The beauty of sonder and gratitude is they make the workplace less about you and more about us. They transform annoying coworkers into complex characters in this bizarre sitcom we call work…Gratitude keeps you sane. Sonder keeps you kind.
Her words highlighted that gratitude goes beyond personal thanks; it's about fostering community and connections with others. Enjoy her complete post here.
Organizationally - Expressing Gratitude in Challenging Times
I saw a post from Korn Ferry discussing the difficulties of writing an end-of-year note, especially in a tough year.
But what if you approached this task with a sense of gratitude? What if you expressed appreciation for the efforts, progress, and perseverance of our teams, even in the face of adversity?
Gratitude is not about ignoring difficulties; it's about acknowledging the good that exists alongside those challenges.
An epiphany on my journey is, "Gratitude is the gateway to abundance." By focusing on what we're grateful for, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities.
It’s Your Turn Now
Gratitude is not an either-or proposition; it's the art of AND.
It's about embracing the complexities of life, acknowledging the darkness, and still finding the beauty and goodness. It's about recognizing that we can be struggling and thriving at the same time.
So, I invite you to join me in practicing gratitude as the art of AND. Share with us your own experiences of finding gratitude in the midst of challenges. Let's create a community that celebrates the beauty of paradox and the power of gratitude.
Invitation: Share your thoughts on gratitude as the art of AND in the comments below. How have you found gratitude in the midst of challenges?
What practices have helped you cultivate a more nuanced approach to gratitude?
The Emotional Currency of Gratitude: Transforming Your Workplace Culture
What if the most valuable currency in your workplace wasn't money, but something much more personal?
As we go about our daily work, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of tasks, meetings, and deadlines. But what drives us to show up, to care, and to give our best? Is it the paycheck, the prestige, or something deeper?
I've noticed something -- maybe you've noticed it too. Gratitude seems to be a forced, or foreign concept in many workplaces. They might celebrate successes, recognize achievements, and share appreciation, but how often do they truly experience authentic gratitude? The kind that touches hearts, fosters connection, and inspires people to be their best selves?
For some leaders and organizations, it seems that holidays like Thanksgiving are a wearisome bother and a distraction. They have to observe the holiday, but you sense they are only observing out of obligation.
A lack of gratitude in workplaces often indicates that fear, not love, may be the main emotion guiding actions.
But what if you could shift that dynamic? What if gratitude became the currency that fueled our workplaces, inspiring collaboration, creativity, and growth?
Let's explore this idea further and uncover the role of gratitude in shaping our workplaces.
The Fear-Love Paradigm
Fear and love are key emotions that characterize workplace cultures. That's consistent with what highly acclaimed psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross observed about fear and love being the two primary emotions.
Fear can manifest in many ways, from the pressure to meet deadlines to the anxiety of not meeting expectations. On the other hand, love can show up as a sense of purpose, a desire to contribute, or a passion for the work itself.
In many workplaces, fear is the dominant emotion. It's the stick that drives performance, rather than the carrot of inspiration and motivation. Fear is often seen as essential for driving results and increasing productivity and efficiency. But what if that's not entirely true?
What if fear is actually holding us back, causing us to focus on short-term gains rather than long-term success?
On the other hand, love-based workplaces are built on a foundation of trust, respect, and appreciation. In these environments, people are motivated by the desire to help, make an impact, and be part of something bigger. Love-based workplaces are characterized by open communication, collaboration, and a sense of community.
So, what does a love-based workplace look like in practice?
It might be a team that celebrates each other's successes, rather than competing against each other. It might be a leader who prioritizes employee well-being, rather than just the bottom line.
Or, it might be a culture that values gratitude and appreciation, rather than fear and obligation.
Take, for example, Cambridge Air Solutions. They introduced gratitude in their daily stand-up meetings over eight years ago. Each morning, employees are invited to share something they're grateful for with the entire company, which includes over 100 employees connecting via Zoom from two locations.
At first, I'm sure it was unusual, or even awkward for some. Now, it's a daily practice that helps team members feel more connected, more supportive, and more motivated. No one is forced to share, and sharing is never shut down for going too long.
Of course, this is just one example, but it illustrates the power of love and gratitude in the workplace. When you focus on what you're grateful for, rather than what you're afraid of, you open yourself up to a world of possibility and potential.
Gratitude as a Currency of Love
In every workplace, there are multiple currencies at play. Some of these currencies, like fear and intimidation, can drive short-term results but ultimately lead to toxic cultures and broken relationships. Others, like love and gratitude, have the power to create lasting value and positive change.
So, what makes gratitude such a powerful currency in your workplace?
When you express appreciation for someone, you're not just giving them a momentary boost of positive emotions. You're investing in a relationship and building a connection that can have lasting impact.
Think of gratitude as a form of emotional currency. Every time you share a genuine expression of appreciation, you're making a deposit into the other person's emotional bank account. Over time, these deposits add up, creating a reserve of goodwill and trust that can help you navigate challenges and build stronger, more resilient relationships.
In a workplace where fear is the dominant currency, people are often motivated by scarcity and self-preservation. They may hoard information, avoid risks, and view their colleagues as competitors rather than collaborators.
But when gratitude becomes the primary currency, it can fundamentally shift the dynamics of your workplace.
Suddenly, people are motivated by a desire to contribute, to share their gifts, and to lift each other up. They view their colleagues as valuable partners and their work as a meaningful opportunity to make a difference.
The benefits of gratitude go beyond just building relationships. Studies have shown that regular gratitude practices can lead to increased resilience, improved well-being, and even better physical health. In your workplace, this translates to higher levels of engagement, productivity, and job satisfaction.
So, how can you start leveraging gratitude as a currency in your workplace?
It starts with making it a regular practice. Look for opportunities to express appreciation in your daily interactions, whether it's a simple "thank you" or a more detailed acknowledgment of someone's contributions.
You can also encourage your leaders to model gratitude and make it a priority in their communication and behavior. This can be as simple as starting meetings with a round of appreciations or sending personalized thank-you notes to team members who have gone above and beyond.
We'd love to hear from you: How does your team or company leverage gratitude as a currency of love? What impact has it had on your workplace culture and relationships? Share your stories and experiences with us in the comments below or on social media using the hashtag #gratitudeatwork.
Taking Action
Gratitude is a powerful force that has the potential to transform your workplace from the inside out. By shifting your focus from fear to love, you can create a culture of appreciation, collaboration, and growth.
But this transformation doesn't happen overnight. It requires a commitment from leadership and a willingness from everyone in the organization to prioritize gratitude and make it a regular practice.
So, where do you start? Begin by looking for opportunities to express appreciation in your daily interactions. Notice the small things that your colleagues do to contribute to the team's success, and take a moment to acknowledge them. Encourage your leaders to model gratitude and make it a priority in their communication and behavior.
And remember, gratitude is a skill that can be developed over time. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes, and the more positive impact it can have on your workplace.
We invite you to join us on this journey of exploring currencies of love and fear in your workplace. In the coming weeks, we'll be diving deeper into practical strategies and tools you can use to invest in your relationships, build emotional wealth, and create a culture of appreciation that pays dividends for years to come.
Together, we'll explore how you can make gratitude the language of your organization, exchanging expressions of appreciation and acknowledgment as readily as you would any other form of currency. By making gratitude a central part of your workplace economy, you'll unlock new levels of connection, collaboration, and growth.
Are you ready to embrace the power of gratitude in your workplace? Let's get that currency flowing!
RUSH or PAUSE: The Essential Strategy for Navigating Holiday Chaos
As the 2024 Holiday Season begins, you may already be feeling the familiar rush of festivities, shopping, and social gatherings. But that's not all you might be feeling. There might be other familiar feelings rising up - the stress of endless to-do lists, the anxiety of trying to make everyone happy, the pressure to keep up with the perfect holiday Instagram feed.
In the midst of all this excitement, it's easy to forget the true spirit of the season. This year, I invite you to make a conscious choice to shift from Rush, Overlook, and Suppress to Pause, Notice, and Express.
The Two Paths of the Holiday Season
You have a choice to make this holiday season. You can choose to rush through the holidays, overlooking the things that truly matter and suppressing your true feelings. Or, you can choose to pause, notice the beauty and wonder around you, and express your gratitude and love.
The path of Rush, Overlook, and Suppress is a well-worn one. It's the path of stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction. It's the path of feeling overwhelmed and empty, even in the midst of abundance. It's the path that leads you to wonder, "Is this all there is?"
But there's another path, a path that's less traveled, but more fulfilling. It's the path of Pause, Notice, and Express. This path is rooted in gratitude, love, and mindfulness. It's the path of connection, joy, and wonder.
Shifting from Rush to Pause
So, how do you make the shift from Rush, Overlook, and Suppress to Pause, Notice, and Express? It’s more simple than you may think! Pause, Notice, Express are the core elements of gratitude that comprise the Gratitude Advantage Framework™. By incorporating these elements into your daily life, you can cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation and joy.
Here are a few practical tips to get you started:
Take time to PAUSE each day – you may find natural times to pause at meals or breaks. You may choose to program pause breaks into your schedule and put these 5 - 10 shift sessions on your calendar.
NOTICE the beauty and wonder around you, from the twinkling lights, to the aroma of trees and cookies, or the kindness of strangers.
EXPRESS your gratitude and love to those around you, whether it's through a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or a listening ear.
It's not always easy, of course. The rush of the holidays can be overwhelming, and it's tempting to get caught up in the chaos. But by choosing to pause, notice, and express, you can create a more meaningful, joyful, and fulfilling holiday season.
PAUSE NOW
What if you start right now?
Take a moment to pause and notice something good in your life. What do you notice that you are grateful for? Send a friend a text or share a comment below and let's celebrate the good things together!
If you're ready to dive deeper into the Gratitude Advantage Framework™, please join me in the Beginner's Guide to Gratitude: it’s a free five-day e-course that will help you cultivate gratitude in your life and leadership -- in about 5 minutes a day!
My wish for you now and in this holiday season is that you will have a fresh experience of gratitude. That you will find things to be grateful for that you’ve never noticed before and as you express gratitude for those people, places, or things that you’ll experience new levels of peace, joy, and abundance.
I’M GRATEFUL FOR YOU and appreciate you joining me on this journey!
Make It Matter: Transforming Your Year-End Appreciation from Routine to Remarkable
You know that feeling when someone gives you a clearly recycled gift card or sends out a mass "thanks for all you do" email?
It lands like a lead balloon.
I've got a feeling that plenty of people will be feeling that between now and the end of 2024.
Why?
When leaders are busy and pressed for time, it's easy to overlook expressing appreciation and stick to past habits.
Why Your Year-End Appreciation Might Be Missing the Mark
When you, as a leader, default to autopilot, your appreciation efforts become just another part of the season's background noise. Like holiday muzak playing in every store, it's there but nobody's really listening. Your well-intentioned gestures of gratitude might actually be signaling the opposite of what you intend.
The Consequences of Autopilot Appreciation
Here's what happens when you put appreciation on autopilot:
Your team sees it as just another box on your leadership to-do list.
Your gestures feel more like obligation than genuine gratitude.
Your recognition lacks personal connection or specific acknowledgment.
Your appreciation gets lost in the noise of generic holiday celebrations.
Your team can predict exactly what's coming (because it's the same as last year).
Your efforts feel stale and routine rather than fresh and meaningful.
Turning Your Recognition from Routine to Remarkable
Personalizing your appreciation makes recognition more impactful and creates lasting memories for your team beyond the holidays.
Here's how to make that happen:
Start with Real Reflection
What specific contributions has each team member made this year?
Which moments stand out when you think about their impact?
How have they grown and what challenges have they overcome?
Make It Personal (Because Generic Never Inspires)
Replace those "thanks for all you do" messages with specific examples of impact.
Call out particular projects or moments that showcase their unique value.
Acknowledge both their visible wins and behind-the-scenes efforts that others might miss.
Create Space for Real Connection
Schedule one-on-one time that isn't rushed or squeezed between meetings.
Share your specific observations about their growth and impact.
Give them space to share their own reflections on the year.
Think Beyond the Expected
Don't wait for formal occasions - surprise your team with unexpected recognition.
Look for moments to express genuine gratitude throughout the season.
Plan ways to carry your appreciation momentum into the new year.
Embracing Both Success and Struggle
Here's something crucial to remember - especially this year!
You don't need to pretend everything was perfect to show genuine appreciation.
In fact, when you acknowledge both the wins and the challenging moments, your gratitude becomes more authentic and meaningful.
Celebrating the Whole Story
When you embrace this "both/and" approach, you can:
Celebrate achievements while honoring the obstacles overcome.
Express gratitude for results while recognizing the effort behind them.
Look back with appreciation while building excitement for what's ahead.
Breaking Free from Your Recognition Routines
Let's be honest - doing the same thing year after year doesn't just bore your team, it diminishes the impact of your appreciation. But breaking free from your usual patterns doesn't mean you need an unlimited budget or elaborate plans.
If you feel you need a permission slip, here it is: YOU CAN CHANGE HOW YOU DO THIS!
Here's how you can inject fresh energy into your year-end appreciation while keeping it authentic:
Rethink Your Traditional Approaches
Instead of defaulting to your standard holiday celebration, consider:
Organizing a team cooking class where everyone shares a meaningful recipe.
Planning a shared volunteer experience your team chooses together.
Creating an adventure that builds lasting memories.
Hosting a "celebration of impact" where you spotlight each person's unique contributions.
Mix Up Your Timing and Delivery
Break free from predictable schedules - surprise is your friend.
Create unexpected moments of recognition throughout the season.
Try new ways to express gratitude - record video messages, write handwritten notes, or create memorable presentations.
Consider extending your celebration into January when the holiday noise has settled.
Make It a Team Experience
Create opportunities for your team members to appreciate each other.
Design activities that celebrate shared achievements.
Get your team involved in planning recognition efforts.
Build traditions that can grow and evolve with your group.
Tools to Elevate Your Appreciation
Want to take your recognition efforts to the next level?
Consider these options:
Co-branded gratitude cards that reflect your company's unique culture and values. Our I'M GRATEFUL FOR YOU and WE'RE GRATEFUL FOR YOU cards provide a tangible way to express your appreciation while maintaining your brand identity. Order your cards here.
Host a Gratitude Encounter™ for your team - these hour-long guided sessions allow your people to explore, express, and experience gratitude together. We'll customize the experience to align with your company's vision and values. DM or book a call to save a date.
Your Next Steps
Before you finalize your year-end appreciation plans:
Take time to reflect on each team member's unique impact.
Consider what would be truly meaningful to each person.
Think about how to make your appreciation specific and personal.
Plan ways to extend your gratitude beyond the holiday season.
A Final Thought
Remember - your goal isn't to make the grandest gesture or spend the most money. Your goal is to ensure your appreciation comes from a place of genuine recognition and gratitude.
When your team feels truly seen and valued, that's when your year-end appreciation becomes transformative rather than transactional.
The Difference Between Genuine Gratitude and Toxic Positivity: A Real-Life Conversation
"I really despise toxic positivity."
That's how Stephanie Obadare started her heartfelt message in response to a post I shared last week, one that resonated deeply with her— and stirred more thoughts than we should squeeze into a quick comment.
Instead, she sent a message...that started a conversation. In our conversation, Stephanie shared several amazing insights about the difference between toxic positivity and what she called, genuine gratitude. Toxic positivity encourages people to overlook real issues and stifle strong emotions. Contrast that with genuine gratitude, which acknowledges challenges while appreciating the good that still exists.
It was such a beautiful exchange; I asked Stephanie for permission to share it with you.
Understanding the Distinction
Toxic positivity tells you to "just be positive" or "look on the bright side" while dismissing your legitimate struggles. It's the emotional equivalent of putting a Band-Aid on a broken leg and pretending everything is fine.
Genuine gratitude doesn't require you to deny reality or pretend everything is perfect.
As Stephanie discovered, it's about recognizing that good things can exist simultaneously with challenges. Genuine gratitude is about choosing what you focus on while still acknowledging what needs to change.
A Perfect Analogy
Stephanie's car analogy brilliantly illustrates this distinction. Imagine you're driving an old clunker while saving for a new set of wheels. 🚖
Things keep going wrong with your current vehicle, and you're not where you want to be yet. Toxic positivity would tell you to just "be happy" with your old car and ignore its problems.
Genuine gratitude, however, allows you to:
Acknowledge that this isn't your ideal situation.
Continue working toward your goal of a new car.
Find ways to appreciate what your current car still offers while you're on the journey.
The Breakthrough
As our conversation continued, I shared two beliefs that often prevent people from embracing genuine gratitude.
Two Common Misconceptions
Many people think "I'll be grateful when everything (or most everything) in my life is good."
Others confuse contentment with complacency and fear being grateful means settling.
The first belief keeps us waiting for some perfect future moment that never arrives. The second concern is that feeling content or grateful might reduce our motivation to make positive changes.
Stephanie responded with this amazing insight:
What changed is telling myself that I know there are good things in life that I can choose to focus on instead and in doing so, I can actually enjoy life in the present instead of living miserably until things change.
That's an epiphany worth sharing! [Thanks again, Stephanie for the privilege of sharing this beautiful conversation, so others can benefit from its wisdom!]
The Power of Genuine Gratitude
This remarkable breakthrough compellingly highlights the stark difference between genuine gratitude and the widespread misconceptions surrounding it. When we recognize there ARE good things in our lives right now, it doesn't diminish our ability to see what needs to change.
Instead, it:
Helps you maintain perspective during difficult times.
Gives you strength to face challenges.
Empowers you to make positive changes.
Creates momentum to find more good things in your life.
Choosing Gratitude
The beauty of genuine gratitude is that it's available to you, right now, regardless of your circumstances.
You don't have to wait for everything to be perfect. (The moment never seems to come!)
You don't have to ignore your challenges. You simply need to make the choice to notice and appreciate the good things that exist alongside your difficulties.
Your Invitation to Practice
I invite you to try this approach for yourself this week. Rather than waiting for perfect circumstances or dismissing real challenges, experiment with genuine gratitude:
Notice one good thing each day, no matter how small.
Acknowledge both what's working AND what you'd like to change.
Practice saying "and" instead of "but" - "I'm grateful for what I have AND I'm working toward something better".
BONUS ASK.
As you practice gratitude this week, will you be aware of those who may reject it because they confuse gratitude with toxic positivity? Don't confront them! Instead, invite them into a kind and caring conversation where you look for opportunities to gently share your own journey of understanding the difference. Sharing how genuine gratitude has positively affected your life can help others appreciate its value.
Join the Conversation
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this distinction between toxic positivity and genuine gratitude. Have you ever rejected gratitude because it felt like toxic positivity? What helped you understand the difference? How have you helped others see this distinction?
Share your experience in the comments below. Remember, gratitude is better together, and your story might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
The Only Certainty is More Uncertainty: A Leader's Reality
I thought last week's article, Finding Solid Ground: How Gratitude Transforms Uncertainty, was enough. Uncertainty has been a common topic in conversations this week, and many people hope it will end with Election Day in the US.
That's when I realized another article was needed.
By day's end we may, or may not, know who the 47th President of the US will be. And even if we do, please don't think that will settle all the uncertainty swirling around us.
It won't.
Waiting for all uncertainties to clear before making decisions is like expecting the ocean to be calm before sailing—it's just not realistic. But it would be nice!
Uncertainty isn't a temporary phase we pass through - it's a constant companion.
The truth is, uncertainty has become our new normal. While elections capture our attention and dominate headlines, they're just one thread in a complex tapestry of uncertainties that leaders navigate daily.
The Daily Dance with Uncertainty
Today's leaders face a cascade of uncertainties daily:
Market shifts - From sudden economic swings to emerging competitive threats
Supply chain disruptions - When "business as usual" becomes anything but usual
Global conflicts - Creating butterfly effects that ripple through economies and communities
Talent dynamics - The evolving nature of work and workforce expectations
Rapid technology evolution - Rapid innovations like AI that transform entire industries overnight
Competitive pressures - New players and business models reshaping markets
Strategic pivots - The constant need to adapt and realign
Team transitions - Managing through organizational changes and cultural shifts
The most effective leaders I know have stopped waiting for uncertainty to pass. Instead, they've developed the capacity to thrive within it.
What Seasoned Leaders Remember
Uncertainty Isn't a Bug - It's a Feature. The goal isn't to eliminate uncertainty (you can't) but to build your capacity to navigate it. This means developing both personal resilience and organizational adaptability.
Your People Are Watching. How you handle uncertainty sets the tone. When you maintain perspective and stay grounded, your team feels more secure exploring uncharted territory.
Tools Matter. The best leaders have developed a toolkit for uncertainty navigation. Gratitude, for instance, isn't just a nice-to-have - it's a powerful lens for maintaining perspective and building resilience.
Some Things Must Remain Constant. While circumstances change and global events create ripple effects across organizations, certain anchors should stay firm.
Here's a shortlist of those anchors. Last week's post went deeper into this topic.
Core values - You must have a north star to guide your decisions.
Communication rhythms - Communicate more than usual -- regular touchpoints that provide stability.
Key relationships - Have a circle of people you trust and communicate with...frequently.
Decision-making principles - Use consistent frameworks for navigating complexity
Appreciation practices - Double down on letting people know you see, value, and appreciate them.
Join the Conversation: A Research Initiative
This fascinating intersection of leading change and navigating uncertainty has captured my attention.
What separates leaders who thrive in uncertainty from those who merely survive it?
That's why I'm launching a focused research project exploring exactly this question. I'm seeking leaders who have experience navigating significant organizational change to share their insights.
If you've led through major transitions, pivots, or transformations, I'd love to hear your story. What worked? What didn't? What tools proved most valuable?
DM me if you'd like to contribute to this important conversation through a 45-minute discussion.
Because here's what I know for sure: While today's election results may or may not be clear by day's end, uncertainty will remain our constant companion.
The question isn't if you'll face more uncertainty - it's how you'll lead through it.
Your turn: What's your most effective tool for navigating uncertainty? I'm eager to read what you have to reflect and share.
Finding Solid Ground: How Gratitude Transforms Uncertainty
Uncertainty looms large in today's world. Elections approach, markets fluctuate, relationships evolve, and global events unfold at dizzying speeds. In such times, gratitude might seem like the last thing on your mind. Yet, it might be exactly what you need most.
The list of uncertainties in our lives seems endless— especially in the aftermath of COVID. As I write this post, it's one week before the Presidential Election in the United States. Talk about uncertainty— .
I felt compelled to share this post... NOW as the uncertainty looms. I hope you know— whatever the outcome of the election is, the uncertainty will remain... and probably grow. It's not going away simply because the election ends.
Navigating uncertainty is a skill you (and I) need to develop because uncertainty is here to stay.
Whether you're navigating career changes, managing financial concerns, addressing family dynamics, or adapting to social transformations, the challenges can feel overwhelming.
Why Gratitude Matters More in Uncertain Times
When everything feels unstable, gratitude can serve as your anchor. It grounds you in what's real, what's present, and what's working— even as you navigate choppy waters.
Think about it: In uncertain times, your natural tendency is to focus on what might go wrong, what you might lose, or what you can't control. This focus often leads to anxiety, fear, and reactive responses— none of which serve you or your relationships well.
Gratitude offers a different path. Not by ignoring reality or dismissing valid concerns, but by widening your lens to include what remains solid and true.
Finding Certainty in Uncertainty
Even in the most uncertain times, some things remain constant. It's helpful to focus on these enduring elements in your life:
Personal Constants:
The love and support of family and friends
Your personal values, beliefs, and faith
The timeless wisdom handed down to us
Your ability to learn and adapt
Daily rituals that ground you
The simple pleasures that bring joy
Your capacity for growth and resilience
Professional Constants:
Skills you've developed
Knowledge you've gained
Relationships with colleagues and mentors
Your work ethic
Experience handling past challenges
Community Constants:
The strength of your community connections
Shared experiences that bind people together
Traditional celebrations and gatherings
Local landmarks, familiar places, and sacred spaces
Acts of kindness from strangers
The rhythm of seasons changing
Natural Constants:
The sunrise each morning
The cycles of nature
The comfort of familiar spaces
Your breath and heartbeat
The steady ground beneath your feet
These constants provide anchors of certainty in uncertain times. They remind you that while circumstances may change, fundamental aspects of life remain steady and true.
Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude During Uncertainty
Start with Personal Reflection. Begin each day by noting what remains stable and good in your world. This practice helps maintain perspective when uncertainty looms large.
Express Appreciation to Others. Recognize the people who make a difference in your life. A simple "I notice and appreciate how you're handling this" can transform someone's day.
Celebrate Small Wins. In uncertain times, even small progress matters. Take time to acknowledge and appreciate forward movement, no matter how modest.
Create Certainty Through Rituals. Establish regular moments for gratitude. These predictable touchpoints can provide stability when other things feel unpredictable.
Start or Join a Gratitude Circle. There's profound power in sharing gratitude with others. Regularly expressing appreciation builds a supportive community, helping everyone handle uncertainty more resiliently. The shared experience of gratitude multiplies its impact and creates islands of certainty in uncertain times. If you don't have a circle, please join me in the IGFY Circle. (Circle code is L1FCQ9).
Traps to Avoid
Gratitude in uncertain times isn't about:
Pretending everything is fine when it isn't
Dismissing valid concerns or fears
Using appreciation to avoid addressing real issues
Forcing positivity when authentic acknowledgment is needed
Instead, it's about:
Maintaining a balanced perspective
Building resilience through appreciation
Creating islands of certainty in seas of change
Strengthening connections when circumstances might pull us apart
The Power of Living with Gratitude
When you choose gratitude during uncertain times, you:
Build personal resilience
Create deeper connections with others
Maintain clearer perspective
Find joy in small moments
Remember that you've navigated uncertainty before
Stay grounded in what matters most
Remember, gratitude doesn't eliminate uncertainty— but it can help you navigate it with more wisdom, grace, and effectiveness.
As you move through this uncertain season, consider: What remains certain in your world? Who deserves your appreciation? What small wins can you celebrate?
In times of uncertainty, gratitude isn't just nice— it's necessary. It's an anchor that helps you stay grounded, connected, and focused on what matters most.
Why not PAUSE right now as you finish reading this and send a gratitude text to someone who came to mind as you read this post? Tell them, "I'M GRATEFUL FOR YOU… here's why!
The Multiplier Effect: Why Gratitude is Better Together
Five years ago, I accidentally stumbled upon a truth that would change everything I thought I knew about gratitude.
When I say stumbled, I mean stumbled.
I didn't read it in a book, find it in a study, or discover it in a class.
Let me explain.
In July 2019, we hosted our first Gratitude Challenge. We sent a daily prompt by email and invited people to respond and share their responses on social media if they wished.
Several shared. When people engaged in sharing, a few received responses. There were small ripples happening.
However, sending the prompts by email presented its own set of challenges. Some people weren't getting the emails...for a variety of reasons.
We set out to solve our email delivery challenge. That's when we stumbled upon a community solution.
🤔 What if we made a community website and invited people who want to join the challenge to join us there?
We did. The creation of a community site successfully addressed the issue of sending prompts via email.
That was great news and a welcomed relief. 😮💨
EPIPHANIES HAPPENED!
But then came the epiphany. Actually, there were several epiphanies. Let me focus on two for now.
First, something amazing happened when people were sharing their responses to gratitude prompts in the community. Reading other people's responses to the same prompt helped us understand it better and made our conversations and interactions more interesting.
Expressing gratitude in a group helps you see things in new ways, makes you more grateful, and brings people closer together.
We noticed that people began interacting with what other people had shared by commenting, offering support, or sharing similar experiences. These interactions spread positivity and connection beyond the initial expression of gratitude.
Second, we discovered that gratitude is truly universal, transcending cultural, linguistic, and religious boundaries.
Regardless of background or belief system, participants found common ground in their expressions of appreciation. Gratitude's universality expanded and strengthened our community, connecting us on a fundamental human level despite our diverse backgrounds.
Those were mind-blowing🤯 and heart-expanding experiences💗. We've continued building on these epiphanies and experiences.
A NEW DISCOVERY
Fast-forward to May of this year. I discovered GratitudePlus, an app that seemed to embody everything we had learned about communal gratitude. It wasn't just about personal journaling; it was about sharing appreciation within circles of like-hearted individuals.
Excited by the potential, I dove in, joining and created two gratitude circles. Today, I'm on the verge of celebrating a significant milestone: my first 100-day streak on GratitudePlus. It happens tomorrow!
This 100-day gratitude streak isn't just a personal achievement. It's a testament to the power of sharing gratitude in community.
Over these 100 days, I've witnessed again how sharing gratitude in a community setting amplifies its benefits. The daily practice of expressing gratitude, seeing others' expressions, and engaging in this shared experience is transformative.
FRESH INSIGHTS ON SHARED GRATITUDE
I invited members of our gratitude circles to share their insights and experiences to celebrate the power of shared gratitude as many of them approach their own gratitude milestones. I posed two questions:
What's been the most surprising or unexpected benefit you've experienced since starting a daily gratitude practice?
How has your daily gratitude practice changed the way you interact with others or perceive the world around you?
The responses were rich and illuminating. With their permission, I'm sharing these valuable insights with you.
As we analyzed the experiences shared by our gratitude community members, four powerful themes emerged. Practicing gratitude together can have a transformative impact on our inner worlds and our interactions with others. The themes shared below exemplify the incredible impact of expressing gratitude within a community. From heightened awareness to profound personal growth, these themes encapsulate the multifaceted benefits of communal gratitude:
Increased Mindfulness and Presence
Shift in Perspective and Outlook
Improved Relationships and Interactions
Increased Confidence, Courage, and Self-Awareness
Let's explore these themes by listening to our community members and understanding how gratitude has improved their lives and led to personal growth.
Theme 1: Increased Mindfulness and Presence
Devin Keane : "I've felt more aware than I ever have… Gratitude has caused me to have an increased presence in the moment."
Valerie Probstfeld: "It allows me to be present in the moment… Gratitude shifts our perspective to the present moment."
Alyssa Towns : "I've caught myself pausing and feeling more present, recognizing how interactions and people make me feel."
These responses highlight how a daily gratitude practice can increase mindfulness and presence in daily life. It's about being more aware of the present moment and savoring the experiences and interactions with others.
Theme 2: Shift in Perspective and Outlook
Christy Kern: "It's less about 'look at all these awesome things in my life' and more about collectively bearing witness to the grace tucked within each day."
Valerie Probstfeld: "It is like putting on a different pair of glasses. One sees the world from an entirely new perspective when you actively search for gratitude."
John Horsley: "Multiple unexpected surprises… I’ve often crawled into the ‘shoulda’ trap which reinforces doubt and shatters present confidence. Instead of shoulding on myself (lol) I’ve started being grateful for the learning and thinking about its application."
These responses show how a daily gratitude practice can shift one's perspective and outlook on life. It's about focusing on the good, finding the lessons in challenges, and approaching life with a more positive and optimistic mindset.
Theme 3: Improved Relationships and Interactions
Sondra Norris: "The opportunities, the conversations, the massive increase in the number of conversations and people I've now met."
John Horsley: "I approach things with such calmness and peace… I've been able to approach difficult conversations well, make hard decisions with grace and humility."
Devin Keane: "It's allowed me to connect much more deeply with people, as long as they are open to that."
These responses demonstrate how a daily gratitude practice can improve relationships and interactions with others. It's about being more present, empathetic, and kind in our interactions, leading to deeper connections and more meaningful relationships.
Theme 4: Increased Confidence, Courage, and Self-Awareness
Dr. Gina Anderson: "The most unexpected benefit for me personally is it has opened my own courage to be completely transparent."
John Horsley: "My self-confidence has improved because I’m living in the here and now without regret from the past and anxiety from the future."
Sondra Norris: "I have experienced a huge increase in how I believe in and act from my intuition."
These responses highlight how a daily gratitude practice can increase confidence, courage, and self-awareness. It's about being more authentic, living in the present, and trusting one's instincts.
Please add your responses to these questions in the comments below.
AN INVITATION TO GRATITUDE IN COMMUNITY
As we reflect on the power of shared gratitude and its ability to enrich our understanding, enhance our experiences, and enliven our conversations, I invite YOU to take two simple actions to experience this for yourself:
Start Your Own Gratitude Circle: Whether it's with family, friends, or colleagues, create a small group dedicated to sharing daily gratitude. This can be as simple as a group text, chat, or a regular meet-up. Or, you can use GratitudePlus. Remember, the key is consistency and openness. NOTE: I can help you do this in your company and tie it into other gratitude initiatives and group experiences – contact me.
Join the I'M GRATEFUL FOR YOU (IGFY) Circle on GratitudePlus: If you're ready to dive into a broader community of gratitude practitioners, I warmly invite you to join our IGFY Circle on the GratitudePlus app. Here, you'll find a supportive environment to express your gratitude, gain new perspectives, and connect with others on a similar journey. To join, simply download the GratitudePlus app and search for the 'I'M GRATEFUL FOR YOU' circle. Send me a message letting me know you've joined us!
By taking these steps, you're not just cultivating personal gratitude; you're becoming part of a movement that's spreading positivity and appreciation across the globe. Remember, gratitude is better together. Let's enrich, enhance, and enliven our gratitude practice as a community and IN a community.
Join me here next week as we dive into the idea of INFUSING gratitude into your life and leadership! I'M GRATEFUL FOR YOU... thanks for joining.
An Amazing 5-Year Journey
It’s Monday, June 17th!
WOW… what a sight to see on the calendar. And, again this year June 17 is a Monday, as it was 5 years ago in 2019.
Something amazing happened on June 17, 2019. At the time, I had a hunch that the four words I heard were an invitation of divine origin.
I had NO idea what saying YES to that four-word invitation on June 17, 2019 would mean… for me… or the world.
We were coming up on the 100th episode of the Higher Purpose Podcast. Over the preceding 16 months, my life had been transformed by the Power of Gratitude. I didn’t have the PoG label for it then, but I was profoundly aware of the impact of gratitude in my life.
Through the kindness of Maryann Kerr, I met Steve Foran about 60 days earlier — April 19th to be precise (thanks LinkedIn 😉). Steve had just written a new book, Thriving to Surviving: The 10 Laws of Grateful Leadership and had gifted me a copy.
Actually, I remember his kindness in sending me two copies. Jason Meucci ended up with the gift copy.
I had this idea of having Steve join me for Episode 101 of the Higher Purpose Podcast to “ground the next 100 episodes in the good soil of gratitude.”
That episode was set to air on July 2, 2019.
Back to that fateful Monday morning of June 17, 2019. Sometime during the early hours of the morning that include gratitude, prayer, journaling, Bible reading, and meditation I heard a simple 4-word invitation.
Heard…that’s an interesting word. I didn’t hear an audible voice. It could not have been more clear or compelling had it been audible.
What I heard arrived as an invitation — not a mandate.
HOST A GRATITUDE CHALLENGE?
Those words animated, energized, and excited me!
My immediate answer was YES!
But I had NO IDEA what a Gratitude Challenge would or could look like.
Immediately, I grabbed my phone and called Steve…
WHY? Because I knew whatever this was… it was bigger than me and I needed help to pull it off.
I still remember calling Steve and asking, “Hey, what do you think of joining me and us hosting a Gratitude Challenge as part of the podcast episode?”
I had rehearsed all of the possible responses Steve might offer. I had tried to anticipate all of his objections so I could mitigate them and entice him to join.
His immediate response stunned me.
“Count me in!”
Say what?
He did not raise a single objection.
Now what? What’s our next step?
I wasn’t prepared for THAT!
Suddenly, I was in scramble mode. I said, “Let me call my friend Christy Kern and see if she’s willing to join us and we’ll hop on a Zoom later today.”
Christy responded in similar fashion to Steve. I do remember her saying something like, “I’ve been thinking it’s time we offer something else.” The year before, Christy and I cocreated the 90-day journey we called, The Extraordinary Experiment.
While that was a great experience, we did 90 days is a bit of an audacious endeavor to start with right out of the gate.
Early in the afternoon of June 17, 2019, the three of us met and brainstormed what would become the 10-Day Gratitude Challenge.
The things that would happen over the next 21 days — well, there are plenty of topics there worth their own posts.
Let me fast forward to June 17, 2024… FIVE YEARS LATER and do a short THEN and NOW Contrast.
THEN…
What would happen if we invited people to a 10-day gratitude challenge?
We worked like crazy to recruit 100 people by Friday, July 5 to launch on Monday, July 8.
Then, on Saturday, an amazing guy, Steve Browne heard about the challenge and asked if he could share it. In 46 hours, another 194 joined in. We closed registration and hosted the first session with 294 people.
The next day, we had 100 people on a wait list.
We started the second session with 349 people.
Then, things got crazy.
We ended up hosting 22 sessions of The Gratitude Challenge and had 2,800+ people join from 73 countries.
Saying YES to that four-word invitation, “Host a Gratitude Challenge?” set me on a path…and launched a journey.
NOW… June 17, 2024
We’ve just announced Don’t Wait To Thank…a month-long invitational initiative for July.
Our aspirational goal? Can we see ONE MILLION people touched by the Power of Gratitude…in a month.
Five years ago, it took 20 months to reach 2,800 people. Now, we’re wondering can 1,000,000 people experience the Power of Gratitude in 31 days.
With your help, it can happen!
Here’s where you can learn more!
Want to embrace the healing power of gratitude? Join me in participating in the #DontWaitToThank Challenge this July to create deeper connections with those who touch our lives. Let's not wait for a special occasion to express gratitude! 🌈💕 Sign up here: https://www.imgratefulforyou.co/dont-wait-to-thank
Because THEY don't happen often...
Those words...
That phrase...
It keeps ringing in my ears and whirling in my mind.
I heard it a little over 12 hours ago.
I can’t seem to shake it.
I don’t know if I want to shake it.
I DO WANT TO CHANGE IT...
That’s why I’m writing this post.
WE CAN DO BETTER!
WE MUST DO BETTER!
“Because THEY don’t happen often...”
Those were the last words I heard deplaning yesterday's flight from Houston to Atlanta.
It’s what Delta Air Lines Flight Attendant Kelly said to me.
WHAT doesn’t happen more often?
It’s really kind of sad.
It’s an indictment about US...
...our lack of empathy.
...our lack of connection.
...our lack of compassion.
...our lack of humanity.
I hesitate to write about it.
I’ve been in a debate with myself for a few minutes now.
Then, I remembered words spoken by my friend, Jason Meucci some months ago.
He called what I’m doing a crusade.
I hadn't thought of it that way. Not at the time he said it...and not much after either.
Until now.
Now, is when I need to hear those words...
...to write this post.
If you think this is MY story, you are sadly mistaken.
I’m a messenger. A flawed one at that.
It was almost two years ago when I was in a conversation with Suzie Consoli and she was prodding and prompting me to come up with something to present to a potential client.
What resulted was the I’M GRATEFUL FOR YOU MOVEMENT.
Yesterday, I was in Houston to share the message and spread the IGFY movement with Dr. Gina Anderson and the amazing team and clients of Luma Brighter Learning.
As I boarded Delta flight 2694, I slipped the Flight Attendant an I’M GRATEFUL FOR YOU card and a bag of chocolates as a gratitude gift.
She thanked me.
An hour or so later, I made my way towards the lavatory at the front of the plane.
It was occupied, so I had to step into the galley to wait.
As I did, guess what I saw?
Posted there was the envelope with the note tucked inside.
“Is it okay if I take a picture?” I asked the flight attendant standing there.
“Sure, but why?”
“It’s for a research project.”
He looked a little confused.
I said, “It’s about the gratitude card and the impact it has.”
“Oh, you’re the guy! I ate four of the chocolates already."
We shared a laugh and that was that...
Or so I thought.
As I was exiting the plane after landing in Atlanta, I looked up in the galley to see if the card was still there.
It was...but now it was out of the envelope and the note was visible.
Now, another flight attendant, the one I handed the card to was standing there thanking passengers as they deplaned.
“Oh, may I take a picture of the card?”
“Sure.”
As I did, she thanked me and said how it made her day.
So, I pressed my luck and asked, “May I take a picture of you with the card since it meant that much to you?”
“I don’t really like pictures.”
"Me either, what’s your name?”
“Oh, I’m Kelly.”
I snapped the photo and was about to deplane.
“Wait, can I take a picture too?" Kelly asked.
“I want to remember this day...
BECAUSE THEY DON’T HAPPEN OFTEN.”
As I type those words now, tears well up.
Days when YOU FEEL seen, heard, valued, and appreciated as a human...don't happen often!!! ‼️😱
Friends, WE CAN CHANGE THAT.
WE CAN MAKE TIME TO SEE PEOPLE...
And let them know we SEE THEM.
When you take a moment and express your gratitude to another human being...YOU ARE TELLING THEM:
I SEE YOU!!!
I VALUE YOU!!!
WHAT YOU DO MATTERS!!!
You don’t have to use an IGFY card to do that. You can put it on a sticky note, an index card, or a blank sheet of paper.
It’s the message that matters...not the medium.
Unless, of course, you remember as I did the moment I typed this line, the immortal words of Marshall McLuhan, “the medium IS the message!”
Imagine a world...
where SEEING people,
CONNECTING with people, and
COMMUNICATING our gratitude to them and for them is the new normal.
Let’s make moments like this HAPPEN MORE OFTEN! ARE YOU IN?
IF YOU’VE READ ALL OF THIS... I HOPE YOU KNOW... I’M GRATEFUL FOR YOU.
In today's world, it's more critical than ever to make sure your employees feel truly valued and appreciated. And despite the vast majority of leaders believing they thank their team often, most employees often wonder if their efforts are truly acknowledged.
Our Gratitude Framework allows people and companies to integrate gratitude into their cultures without exorbitant amounts of time, resources, or investment. Contact us today to begin your journey towards a culture of gratitude. Together, let's create a work environment defined by appreciation and fulfillment.
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The Transformative Power of Gratitude: Start Your Journey NOW!
Maybe you’ve heard or read claims about gratitude being a game changer in people's lives. Perhaps you've wondered if it's true that practicing gratitude can help YOU feel more content, joyful, and fulfilled.
Can you really change your life by recognizing and appreciating the good things around you?
We invite you to join us in exploring the transformative power of gratitude through our Beginner's Guide to Growing Gratitude. Join this 5-day journey to learn how to cultivate a more appreciative mindset and enjoy the benefits of gratitude.
Over the course of these five engaging and informative days, you'll learn to:
Pause, notice, and express gratitude effectively
Train your mind to be more present and appreciative
Uncover hidden blessings in your life
Communicate your appreciation to amplify its effects
Express the gratitude you have for people to them
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the true power of gratitude and start experiencing the life-changing transformation that awaits you.
Join us today to discover the positive impact of adopting a more grateful perspective on your happiness, relationships, and well-being. 🌱❤️
It’s our gift to you. Start here…start now
Be with us in a transformative journey towards gratitude.
Sign up now to join our guided daily journal in experiencing the ultimate power of gratitude.
Through FLOURISH, we provide a supportive journey exploring abundant, meaningful gratitude that fosters resilience against life's adversities, generates deep-seated contentment, and motivates consistent personal transformation, all wrapped in an inspiration-filled, engaging shared experience. One that you can start whenever you’re ready…including NOW.
Discover more of FLOURISH here.
Getting through 4 years of hard stuff
Four years ago today…⌛️
WOW!
Can you believe it was four years ago today when the WHO declared the COVID-19 as a global pandemic?
Over the past four years…
We’ve ALL experienced varying degrees of difficulty and trauma.
We ALL lost something…or someone…and some people have lost a lot.
We’ve ALL been through hard stuff over the past four years.
…and yet,
Here we are…
Getting through…
Granted, some are getting through better than others.
Some are still in the middle of hard stuff now.
But even in the midst of all the challenges, there is still so much to be grateful for. As Max Lucado reminds us, "Gratitude gets us through the hard stuff… Gratitude always leaves us looking at God and away from dread."
Here are a few things to be grateful for, even in the midst of the pandemic:
⚕️Our health and the health of our loved ones
🏡 A roof over our heads and food on the table
🌱 The opportunity to learn and grow from this experience
💕The kindness and compassion of others
🌤️ The hope that things will get better and brighter days await us.
Gratitude is not always easy, but it is always worth it. When we focus on the good things in our lives, we are more likely to feel happy, hopeful, and resilient.
Take a moment today, this week to reflect on the people or things you are grateful for.
Think about something you treasure more now than you did four years ago.
PAUSE and FEEL your gratitude.
Think about the people that have helped you survive… and thrive over these past four years.
Express your gratitude. Connect with them… through a call, a text, a note, a post, or a hug.
Tell them you value them and appreciate them…that your life is better and brighter because of them in it.
Journal about the people, places, and things that come to mind this week.
Bring it up in conversation.
Gratitude will help you to get through the hard stuff and to focus on the good things in life.
Be with us in a transformative journey towards gratitude.
Sign up now to join our guided daily journal in experiencing the ultimate power of gratitude.
Through FLOURISH, we provide a supportive journey exploring abundant, meaningful gratitude that fosters resilience against life's adversities, generates deep-seated contentment, and motivates consistent personal transformation, all wrapped in an inspiration-filled, engaging shared experience.
Discover more of FLOURISH here.
Experiencing Gratitude
“Thanks for the invitation, but NO, I won’t do that! I don’t think that’s the right approach.”
That conversation took place more than four years ago now, but I remember it like it was last week.
A dear friend asked if I would lead a webinar for their global group of leaders.
I was thrilled. I was delighted. At the invitation… but not at the idea of a webinar.
A webinar on gratitude didn’t seem like the right approach.
At least not in the traditional sense of a ‘sit and get’ meeting where the audience listens while the speaker shares wisdom and knowledge.
I’ll do something… but not a webinar.
Okay, so what WILL YOU DO?
I don’t know. Give me a few days to think about it.
I remember the day… and the place where the idea for a Gratitude Encounter™ arrived on my morning walk.
It’s built on one BIG idea—
GRATITUDE EXPERIENCED IS BETTER THAN GRATITUDE EXPLAINED.
• An intellectual understanding of gratitude is great… but it’s not transformational.
• A daily discipline of listing three things you’re thankful is a great idea… it’s a good practice
But again, it’s EXPRIENCING gratitude… that’s what changes everything.
I’d love to hear about YOUR experience of experiencing gratitude.
Are you excited to build a habit of cultivating gratitude in your daily life?
Sign up today to join our guided daily journal in experiencing the ultimate power of gratitude.
Through FLOURISH, we provide a supportive journey exploring abundant, meaningful gratitude that fosters resilience against life's adversities, generates deep-seated contentment, and motivates consistent personal transformation, all wrapped in an inspiration-filled, engaging shared experience.
Discover more of FLOURISH here.
There is MORE in the NOW
More…
The relentless pursuit of more.
The continual climb…
grabbing for the next rung on the ladder
It’s an apt description of what’s valued in today’s world. Climbing and clamoring for…
more possessions,
more experiences,
more accomplishments,
more knowledge,
more money,
more novelty,
more, more, more.
All that push for more…
…it takes a toll on your soul.
What if…
…for a moment today, you do what Lori Deschene of Tiny Buddha recommended?
PAUSE…
Stop climbing…take a deep breath (then another…and another)
NOTICE how far you’ve come on your journey…as you do…
APPRECIATE the view … from where you are NOW.
APPRECIATE YOU for the decisions you’ve made, the actions you’ve taken to get where you are…NOW.
APPRECIATE the PEOPLE who helped you along the way. The PEOPLE who believed in your before you believed in yourself…or when you stopped believing in yourself.
EXPRESS THANKS…
APPRECIATION…
and GRATITUDE
in a call, a note, a text, a hug,
a coffee or tea, a high five.
ENJOY THE VIEW…
The view of NOW.
Be with us in a transformative journey towards gratitude.
Sign up now to join our guided daily journal in experiencing the ultimate power of gratitude.
Through FLOURISH, we provide a supportive journey exploring abundant, meaningful gratitude that fosters resilience against life's adversities, generates deep-seated contentment, and motivates consistent personal transformation, all wrapped in an inspiration-filled, engaging shared experience. One that you can start whenever you’re ready…including NOW.
Discover more of FLOURISH here.
The Need to Always PUSH
What if the mystical breakthrough isn’t as mysterious as we often enshrine it to be?
At times, life does not turn out how exactly we planned it in our mind. It offers you another path, but not to sway you from achieving your goal, but a redirection in accomplishing it. Usually, it never comes easy— different circumstances, challenges, and obstacles. However it always leads us the path of success or learning.
With a lot of opportunities for people with entrepreneurial mindset also comes with different setbacks and oftentimes, doubts whether it is worth the risk or not. Should I take a leap of faith into the unknown possibilities? Or let all of our thoughts become a bottomless pit of what ifs?
It is normal for us to have doubts and what ifs. We think of the possibilities of what could be ahead of us, and a wishful thinking of how should things fall perfectly in place to make all of the risks worth it. How nice would it be if everything turned out exactly how we envisioned it to be.
As entrepreneurs, we think about… we fantasize about breakthroughs — the myth of the overnight success.
The BIG break!
That magical, mystical, miraculous moment when everything changes in one snap— where everything laid out perfectly the way we have plotted it out in our vision.
What if, it’s not as miraculous as it seems?
The real miracle might not be the moment of breaking through — but the moments you kept pushing through when quitting was the easier option!
Failure is a myth and quitting is never an option. Failure gives us an opportunity to learn and grow. Instead of dwelling on failures, see them as feedback and lessons. Instead of quitting when you fail, see it as a chance to try again with a different approach. No wasted chances, only lessons learned. Always push yourself to take action until something happens. With perseverance, optimism, and gratitude, it will lead you to see something you’ve never seen before— something unexpected, something miraculous, the fruit of all your hard work and labor.
The feeling of achieving success despite all the doubts, risks, challenges, and obstacles is a sweet memory that could never be replaced. It is a unique and valuable feeling of joy and gratitude, a life lesson and a core memory to be treasured.
Think of your entrepreneurial journey as your next inspirational talk to an audience who is like you, an entrepreneur with vision, perseverance, optimism, and gratitude. The struggles you are facing now are nothing compared to your victory in the days, weeks, and months to come.
Until then, always continue to PUSH — Persevere Until Something Happens.
Breakthroughs happen and behind all of it is your consistent PUSH.
Are you excited to build a habit of cultivating gratitude in your daily life?
Sign up today to join our guided daily journal in experiencing the ultimate power of gratitude.
Through FLOURISH, we provide a supportive journey exploring abundant, meaningful gratitude that fosters resilience against life's adversities, generates deep-seated contentment, and motivates consistent personal transformation, all wrapped in an inspiration-filled, engaging shared experience.
Together, let us PUSH ourselves in cultivating our entrepreneurial mindset with the transformative power of gratitude, and definitely something magical will happen.
Discover more of FLOURISH here.