The Strength of Gratitude in the Workplace
Improved Relationships
When managers and employees regularly showcase their gratitude in the workplace, it opens the door for better relationships, as it offers insight into what each person’s strengths are. People also feel more comfortable around those that have recognized their efforts.
Decreased Stress and Increased Overall Well-Being
Showing gratitude can also help decrease stress, both for the giver and the receiver. Telling someone “Thank You” has been scientifically shown to bring about positive emotions for both parties. In addition, gratitude helps increase feelings of overall well-being, which is better for overall workplace morale.
Decreased Turnover
Gratitude is a powerful tool which showcases the appreciation for someone’s talent, time, and completed projects. When people feel appreciated they feel that they add value to the organization and what they do matters which fosters greater job satisfaction and fulfillment.
More Open Dialogue
Once employees feel appreciated and closer to their supervisors and coworkers via better relationships through gratitude, they are more likely to be open with their concerns, and willing to have difficult conversations.
Increased Alertness
Practicing the awareness of gratitude has been shown to increase alertness and available support for others, according to the University of Massachusetts.
Finally, fostering an environment of self-gratitude can also be a strong component toward growing the occurrence of outward appreciation in the workplace. In order to promote gratitude in the workplace, have managers focus on recognizing employees for their accomplishments and encourage them to do the same.
Allow employees to time and resources to recognize others, either through thank you notes made available in the office supply room or available time to showcase gratitude. Provide resources for employees to learn about meditation or other methods of self gratitude, such as journaling.
