Expressing Gratitude

It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is this week!!! As Thanksgiving approaches my thoughts turn to the things that I am thankful for this year. I feel it is important to express gratitude to others. One thing I have learned from my experience in LSC so far is that leaders should let those around them know that they and their contributions are appreciated. I thought about some simple ways that I show appreciation. Here are five simple ways to express your gratitude this Thanksgiving:
1. Say "Thank You." When a colleague goes above and beyond, when your spouse completes a chore that he/she isn't usually assigned, when a friend lends a helping hand, show that you appreciate their efforts. Saying "thank you" is an often overlooked, but powerful, expression of gratitude that allows the recipient to know that they are valued. Two simple words that are worth so much.
2. Pick up the telephone. Do you have team members, friends or family sprinkled all over the country? A simple phone call this week wishing them a very happy Thanksgiving will go along way to letting them know that you value their presence in your life.
3. Extend a dinner invitation. Are you having a large gathering this Thanksgiving? Do you know a colleague or friend who might be alone for the holiday? Express your gratitude by inviting him/her to join you.
4. Offer to cover. Do you work in an industry that needs people to work over the upcoming holiday weekend? Or, do you know someone who is travelling for the holiday? If you don't already have established plans, show you appreciate the contributions of others by offering to cover holiday shifts. If you have plans but are not traveling, offer to cover for a few hours on Wednesday afternoon so that those traveling can hit the road a bit early.
5. Be present. If you are lucky enough to be spending Thanksgiving with those who are most important to you, the best way to show them that you are grateful for their presence in your life is to be fully present throughout the holiday. Leave the Blackberry in your briefcase, put the laptop away, turn off any unnecessary television and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Sharing your whole self with others, whether watching the football game together, engaging in meaningful conversation over dinner, or playing on the floor with the young ones, is the best method to show your gratitude this Thanksgiving.

I am thankful for this great program and I am very thankful that I was selected to be part of such a wonderful team of leaders. Happy Thanksgiving.