As the leaves turn amber and darkness draws in earlier, Fall ushers in a poignant time of reflection. It is a season associated with harvest and abundance – crops lifted from the fields, larders filled for winter, families drawn closely around hearths. Shorter days turn our thoughts inward.
I love to take these annual cues from nature to reflect and practice gratitude in a way that’s meaningful to me. I think of family and faith; community and compassion for people near and far. When we lean into genuine gratitude, our sense of well-being grows.
The benefits of practicing gratitude are well documented. Studies show that people who intentionally cultivate gratitude sleep better, have lower blood pressure and experience less depression and anxiety. They build stronger relationships. Their brains light up in areas associated with happiness.
How can we lean into gratitude this time of year?
- Keep a gratitude journal to jot moments of joy or goodness you notice daily. The act of recording positives trains our brain.
- Write thank you notes to those who have helped you. The happiness we feel expressing gratitude is amplified when it’s shared.
- Take time to reminisce on cherished memories from this past year – a laugh shared with coworkers, a child’s accomplishment, family gatherings, travel and adventure.
- Consider the basic joys we often overlook – warmth, shelter, comfort. Notice these with intention.
- Consider donating time or resources to a worthy cause. Giving back is the ultimate expression of gratitude.
- Share your gratitude with loved ones. Not just material gifts, but the heartfelt gift of sharing your thankfulness for them.
- As seasonal celebrations approach, carve out time for reflection amid the bustle. Find stillness to appreciate the bounty – temporal, relational and spiritual – this year has held.
Most likely you are in the grip of end-of-year activity, but there are still glimmers of gratitude to be found if we pause to look.
Intentionally focusing on gratitude in the workplace – even during trying times – offers benefits:
- Gratitude strengthens workplace relationships and connections damaged by stress or isolation. Expressing thanks and appreciation to colleagues heals divides.
- Recognizing accomplishments, no matter how small, restores morale and a sense of forward momentum after setbacks stall progress.
- Sincere gratitude has a trickle down effect. When leaders express thankfulness, it permeates the organizational culture.
- Reflection on growth during adversity breeds resilience. Recall lessons learned and progress made through struggle.
- Looking back at team achievements through a lens of gratitude fosters purpose and pride. It reminds people their work matters.
As the year closes, take time for intentional gratitude at work. Recognize, reflect, appreciate. Let thankfulness for those who weathered the storms together rekindle connection and renewal.
The new year awaits.
And I for one, can’t wait to see what it brings.
