In January, a friend of mine had a daughter get married and my wife and I had the privilege of attending her wedding. A couple weeks ago, we received a beautiful thank you note in the mail, thanking us for attending the wedding and giving a small gift. My guess is they probably sent notes to many other guests who gave small household items to help kickstart their new home, but there's just something special about a simple "thank you."
THE CUSTOM OF THANK YOU NOTES
Giving presents to couples who get married crosses cultural boundaries, but sending a personal note expressing gratitude to those who attended is a unique and beautiful custom of only some cultures. This simple gesture expresses gratitude in a personal and thoughtful way.
GRATITUDE IS A GOOD LEADERSHIP QUALITY
Such a simple note got me thinking: "Thank you” is a good phrase for leaders to repeat as often as possible. I believe the best leaders are grateful leaders who know how to appreciate others and are thankful to God for their calling. Leaders who say “thank you” greatly benefit from their heart of gratitude. Here are five ways gratitude can make you a better leader:
Gratitude focuses on the positive. The world is full of negativity, but “thank you” is a fundamentally positive phrase. When we express gratitude, we reflect a positive attitude and create a healthy leadership environment.
Gratitude affirms goodness. Thanking someone for a job well done affirms the good qualities of that person. Being grateful to God recognizes His goodness and His good purposes.
Gratitude is contagious. As I travel the world to help lead conferences, I am amazed how people emulate the actions and attitudes of their leaders. Express enough gratitude in your leadership circle, and you will soon develop a culture that values and expresses the words “thank you,” just like you.
Gratitude builds healthy relationships. When you take the time to go back and thank someone, you are adding value to your relationship with them. Saying “thank you” helps establish rapport and builds trust.
Gratitude is good for business. According to Fortune Magazine, being grateful to customers has shown to increase revenue and customer loyalty. For the team leader, “thank you” helps build loyal followers.
It takes an investment of time, paper, and ink to write thank you notes. The deeper attitude of gratitude requires discipline as well. Gratitude is an intentional approach to life that acknowledges the blessings God bestows and the good qualities of others.
ACTION QUESTION
Can you think of one person to send a thank you note today?
Every believer agrees that maintaining our integrity is one of best things we could for our spiritual life, but does it have to be so difficult. Read more to find out how to build consistency with maintaining your integrity.