8 Ways to Infuse Gratitude into Your Network
Here we go again, another season of gathering, feasting, drinking, and connecting with those we care about. November is the time of year when we turn to reflection and gratitude.
If you haven’t thought about it before, gratitude to your clients, employees, power partners, friends, and family is important. Take the time to tell those who matter to you that you appreciate them. I mean, if not now, when?
Last year at the time, we were still reeling from a season like no other. We here at the Inner Circle were all about giving people grace last year–understanding where they were coming from, what they’d been through, and how they may have been feeling.
This year, for the most part, we are all back to moving and hustling. That’s why it’s even more important now to stop and take time to really see each other and the gifts we bring to the world.
Here are some ways to infuse gratitude into your network, your family, or even to yourself. It will make a difference to them–and it’ll make you feel good, too!
Look at your list and see who were the most important people in your network this past year. Create a list of about 15-20 people and think about what you want to say to them. Something like, “You made a difference to me!” or “You Rock!”
Make it a priority. Reserve time on your calendar for the chance to actually say thank you. “I was too busy” is NOT an excuse when it comes to a good gratitude practice.
Check in and ask what’s new. Many people have experienced a lot of change in their lives. Don’t be afraid to ask what’s new and learn how they’ve updated their life and their business. You never know what might come of that conversation.
Find a creative way to thank your colleagues. Don't be the guy who gives a Starbucks gift card. Take a few moments and think about the person you are thanking or gifting. They have probably told you enough about themselves that you can glean another detail – like they want to travel or are obsessed with lemurs. Picking a thoughtful, appropriate gift is a game changer. You’ll get statements like “I can’t believe you remembered!” or ''How did you know?” Surprises like that are a true delight!
Place a call. With so much communication happening over written text and messaging platforms, people these days are easily surprised when they hear a live voice. A short call to say thank you, or even a voicemail of appreciation, will go a long way.
Write a note. Same goes with a handwritten note. Hands down, most professionals mention handwritten notes as a top thoughtful gift. Get some good stationery and a pen and practice writing “Thank you!”
Make time to spend quality time. Invest in some tickets to a game, an exhibit, or a Broadway show and make time on your calendar for thanking someone special for all that they do. Spending quality time is what it’s about.
Have fun! Why not? Remember fun? Your gratitude can show with a smile as you swing the golf club at the local indoor driving range or rent out a movie theater and invite your family and friends.
No matter what you choose, try something out of the ordinary and make your gratitude practice an annual thing, or a monthly thing. Wouldn't it be crazy if it was even a daily thing! We definitely need more kindness in the world. Let it start with us! #BetterTogether