Resilience and Gratitude

Resilience is a critical leadership skill, as it enables people to remain optimistic during change and disruption. Focusing on the positive requires thoughtful reflection for acknowledging the contributions of others and making connections between those involved, their actions, and their impact. Instead of “checking a box” when tasks are complete, taking a moment to express gratitude encourages collaborative conversations and acknowledges that we can’t do everything by ourselves. 

How does gratitude show up at work? Emotional resilience comes in five components: social competence, problem-solving, autonomy, forgiveness, empathy, and gratitude. To build resilience, practice gratitude. 

• Dedicate time to thank team members for their efforts and provide specific examples of appreciation. 

• Reflect at the end of every day about your work and what you are grateful for. Tap into the benefits of a positive outlook for regularly expressing gratitude.

• Make it a habit to express gratitude spontaneously and frequently.

• Ask team members how they prefer to be appreciated and thanked.  Use this information. 

• Build trust by being honest and vulnerable about the appreciation you value hearing from others. 

• Take time to ask yourself, “Who has helped me recently?”  Be intentional with how and when you will thank them. 

Whether you work remotely, in the office, or a little of both, the link between gratitude and resilience makes a compelling case for more appreciation at work.