Leading Mindfully: How Gratitude Unlocks Our Potential
Dear Mindful Leader,
When was the last time you were thanked or felt genuinely appreciated by others for the work you do? Gratitude is a powerfully positive emotion for both the giver and receiver, with research-backed benefits for our mental and physical health. But the perks of bringing gratitude to work may go even further: The practice may help employees to maximize their success and strengthen a shared sense of workplace community and trust.
Gratitude in the context of work can be viewed as a “personal resource,” according to Llewellyn van Zyl, an assistant professor in work and organizational psychology with Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. Knowing their efforts are valued can empower employees to focus on the good, reframe challenges, and reach out for support when it’s needed. A recent study by Van Zyl also shows the importance of fit. One way leaders can uplift a sense of gratitude is by recognizing employees’ strengths and personalities, and guiding them to utilize these skillfully.
Orienting a workplace toward gratitude starts with cultivating mindful awareness of the good in ourselves and those we work with. Explore the resources below to see how you can bring the power of gratitude to your team.
Showing gratitude at work can contribute to a healthier workplace, but new research says that work gratitude is conceptually different from gratitude in other areas of our lives. Learn More
By Misty Pratt
Practicing gratitude has incredible effects, from improving our mental health to boosting our relationships with others. Explore ways you can be more appreciative in our mindful guide to gratitude. Learn More
By Mindful Staff
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Explore these quick reflections as ways to bring more awareness of gratitude to any moment. Learn More
By Kelly Barron
A new study from Northeastern University suggests the best way to increase patience when making big decisions is by practicing gratitude. Learn More
By Mindful Staff
At times when it’s difficult to connect with feelings of gratitude, consider this practice that allows us to release tension and to “amplify the experience of optimism,” says LifeXT cofounder Nate Klemp, PhD . The steps of Notice, Shift, and Rewire combine mindful awareness with the conscious choice to redirect your attention toward what you’re genuinely grateful for.
Try this 10-minute practice to help you build the inner habit of gratitude.
I’m grateful for the power of self awareness. Life can be pleasant, life can be pleasant, in all, we have choice in what we pay attention to.
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