How to Show More Gratitude at Work: Giving Thanks Makes You a Better Leader

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” - William Arthur Ward

Gratitude often feels like a simple “thank you.” But as leaders, the power of gratitude goes far beyond politeness—it’s transformative. In my experience working with leaders and teams globally, I’ve witnessed how a heartfelt acknowledgment can inspire action, build trust, and shape a thriving workplace culture.

This isn’t just anecdotal. Research consistently underscores that expressing gratitude can elevate leadership, boost employee morale, and improve organizational outcomes. Let’s dive into why gratitude is essential for leaders and how you can embrace it authentically.

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The Importance of Gratitude in Leadership

Gratitude is more than a good habit—it’s a connector. It humanizes relationships and deepens bonds. Studies from the University of California, Berkeley, link gratitude to higher levels of happiness and satisfaction, both of which ripple into the workplace. Leaders who express gratitude can reduce stress and anxiety within their teams while promoting a supportive environment.

Interestingly, gratitude also benefits leaders themselves. A 2018 white paper titled The Science of Gratitude highlights that leaders who express appreciation report higher job satisfaction and are less prone to burnout. With burnout affecting nearly half of all workers at some point, the need for gratitude as a leadership tool becomes all the more urgent.

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Research Findings on Gratitude and Leadership

1. Increased Employee Engagement

Imagine working for a leader who genuinely appreciates you. A survey by Glassdoor found that 81% of employees would work harder for a grateful boss. This tells us that gratitude isn’t just feel-good—it’s a driver of motivation and performance.

2. Stronger Team Dynamics

When leaders express gratitude, the ripple effect is real. Teams thrive in environments where appreciation is a norm. A study published by the American Psychological Association found that 93% of participants felt motivated to perform their best when they felt valued. Gratitude creates belonging, which strengthens collaboration and trust.

3. Health Benefits for Leaders and Teams

Did you know gratitude can positively impact health? Research shows that practicing gratitude improves sleep quality, lowers blood pressure, and even boosts immune function. By cultivating gratitude in the workplace, leaders create an environment where well-being is as important as performance.

Practical Strategies for Leaders to Cultivate Gratitude

Practicing gratitude doesn’t need grand gestures or budgets. Start small, and start today.

1. Express Appreciation Regularly

A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Whether it’s acknowledging someone for their effort or celebrating a milestone, regular expressions of gratitude create an environment where employees feel valued.

2. Write Handwritten Notes

In a digital world, the personal touch of a handwritten note stands out. Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup Company, is known for writing over 30,000 notes during his tenure. It’s a small act with profound impact.

3. Create Spaces for Gratitude

Consider setting up spaces—physical or virtual—where team members can share shout-outs and appreciation. It could be a bulletin board in the office or a dedicated Slack channel where colleagues recognize each other.

4. Incorporate Gratitude into Meetings

Start your meetings with a moment of gratitude. Encourage everyone to share something they appreciate about their colleagues or recent successes. This small ritual not only sets a positive tone but also builds camaraderie.

5. Personalize Your Thanks

Not everyone likes being appreciated the same way. Some prefer public recognition, while others value a quiet one-on-one acknowledgment. Be specific in your thanks—mention exactly what they did and why it mattered. Authenticity matters.

Gratitude isn’t just nice to have—it’s a must-have for effective leadership. By recognizing the contributions of your team and fostering a culture of appreciation, you create a more engaged, motivated, and resilient workforce.

So, the next time you think of saying “thank you,” make it count. As a leader, your words have the power to shape not just performance, but the very culture your team lives in.

What’s one act of gratitude you can start practicing today?