Four Must-Knows about Gratitude
Sara Wilson, CPCC, ACC | 
People spend more time per week working than with their families.* This being the case, it’s vital that people work in healthy, supportive environments. Instilling and expressing gratitude is a simple way organizations can increase employee job satisfaction.
What is your organization’s culture around gratitude and appreciation? If you’re hesitant to engage in formal gratitude practices, maybe it’s because you believe one or more of the myths about gratitude in the workplace identified by researcher Amie Gordon (2019).
Myth #1: It’s forced.
Truth: Participants assigned to “be more grateful” are more satisfied, healthier, and happier. People enjoy gratitude interventions even when told to practice it.
Myth #2: It’s fake.
Truth: Expressing gratitude when it is felt matters. Being specific about what one is grateful for heightens the experience for both people.
Myth #3: It’s fluffy.
Truth: Gratitude is about feeling valued by others and seeing value in others. The majority of employees will leave if they do not feel appreciated and recognized.
Myth #4: It undermines authority.
Truth: Grateful leaders inspire trust. They are perceived as having more integrity.
Looking for more resources on appreciation and gratitude?
- Here’s some more advice on thanking employees.
- And great ideas for thanking volunteers.
What practices of appreciation can you implement that will benefit your team?
*OECD, 2019