The Power of Gratitude
At FS/A, when we ask leaders and teams, “What are you grateful for?” we often see confused looks. Gratitude may seem simple and obvious, but in many organizations—even ones that emphasize positivity—it is rarely practiced intentionally.
Why? Because when our to-do lists grow longer than the hours in our day, taking a moment to give thanks can seem unproductive. As the late Stephen R. Covey reminded us, however, “Take time to sharpen the saw and you’ll cut more wood.” Gratitude isn’t a distraction from Peak Performance—it’s the foundation for it.
Why Gratitude Matters
Research shows that gratitude literally rewires the brain because it:
- increases dopamine, enhancing motivation and pleasure;
- activates the reward center, reinforcing the desire to repeat grateful actions;
- lowers stress hormones, boosting health and well-being;
- enhances empathy and relationships, fostering stronger bonds of trust; and
- enhances mental health by shifting focus from negativity to hope.
Even small practices, like writing thank-you notes, amplify these effects. They not only boost the sender’s sense of appreciation but also elevate the receiver, creating a cycle of positivity that spreads across teams and organizations.
How to Begin Practicing Gratitude
Gratitude is like a muscle—it becomes stronger when exercised. Consider adopting these practices:
- Journal daily: Write three things that energized you today or that you’re looking forward to tomorrow.
- Recognize kindness: Acknowledge when someone does something right and thank them.
- Show appreciation: Write a handwritten note or send a considerate message.
The impact is significant: improved health, stronger relationships, better teams, and a more optimistic view on life.
In the words of Benedictine monk David Steindl-Rast:
“It is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy.”
Gratitude doesn’t just make life better—it makes us better at life.