SPECIAL EDITION: World Gratitude Day

Do you have a culture of recognition and appreciation in your workplace? Amidst the shifts and extra challenges the past 18 months have brought, World Gratitude Day is a reminder to thank those around you who have made a positive difference.

We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives. – John F. Kennedy

We are convinced of the power of gratitude. While saying “thank you” may seem commonplace, science tells us that those words have profound power, both for the giver and receiver of thanks. A simple, sincere “thank you” can make employees feel more positive and engaged. And grateful employees form stronger relationships, perform better, and tend to have greater job satisfaction.

Silent gratitude isn’t much use to anyone. – G.B. Stern

In a study last year, more than half of respondents who were working remotely said they had not felt much gratitude from their boss since they stopped commuting, although 70% of that same survey group said they were working harder than ever before. Most of these employees (94%) affirmed that receiving gratitude was a motivator for their daily work, but almost half (46%) did not feel that they were recognized for their contributions.

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say “thank you?” – William A. Ward

Every September 21 since 1977 has been a celebration of thankfulness with World Gratitude Day. Take the opportunity to express gratitude to those around you. Thank everyone on your team who has stepped up to the challenges of the past 18 months. Acknowledge the specific people whose presence and actions have impacted you in a positive way. 

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them. —John F. Kennedy