I don’t know about you, but when I’m busy it’s hard to find time for reflection. On the days I spend too much time in survival mode, I know I’m missing opportunities to connect with coworkers or acknowledge great work – or even pause long enough to check in and see how someone is doing. I know this because it stops me in my tracks when someone takes the time to say thanks or check in with me. That acknowledgment wakes me from my “busy trance” and helps me increase my own efforts to show gratitude to others. Simple acts of appreciation are, really, anything but simple. They can make a day.
Right now, many of my coworkers are participating in a gratitude challenge at work designed to bring awareness to making the choice of gratitude daily. Kristine Kuyper on our benefits and wellness team wrote that “the benefits include improved physical health, greater happiness, better sleep, more self-esteem, stronger relationships, greater resilience, less anxiety, reduced symptoms of depression, and so much more.” Employees started a Gratitude Wall, posting things they are grateful for online. (“Two different co-workers gave me a ride to pick up my car at the shop today… what a great group of guys!”) It’s easy to let daily challenges distract you; it may not be as easy to let these same challenges point to moments of gratitude. But this exercise helps. We are also running a week-long #Iamthankfulfor campaign where employees are sharing what they are thankful for on our Facebook and Instagram pages. We would love for you to participate in our campaign by sharing what you’re grateful for this year in the comments section of these posts.
On this Thanksgiving week, we wish you and yours a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable time with family and friends. May gratitude overwhelm you this year. We’re grateful that you are connected to the Mead & Hunt family.
