Leadership Shows Gratitude

Leadership Shows Gratitude November 26, 2013

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The leaders who inspire me say thank you very often.

They thank the people who contribute insight and information that make it possible to achieve goals. They are grateful to people who go above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference. They express their gratitude to each person involved in the process. Some of them even thank the people who slowed things down or created obstacles that gave us time to find creative solutions.

For these leaders, every day is Thanksgiving Day.

They recognize that leadership, like fire, cannot exist in a vacuum. Their leadership depends on other people to come to life.

Leadership is not about arriving first, out in front of a crowd of followers. Leadership is about recognizing how we all get there together.

The leaders who inspire me share their true selves with the people around them. The sparks of their examples light the flame of leadership in me.

You invite me to follow your example. You ask me to reach within myself, do the deep work it takes to know my truest self, then share my truths with you.

I recall the times you thanked me for my work. I remember, and re-read, the notes and cards you have given me. I continue sharing your stories with the people around me.

I would not be the leader, or the person, I am today without your examples. You brought out my best, then thanked me for qualities that you saw in me before I did. Your confidence, your encouragement kept me going.

Thank you for all the ways you inspire me to be the leader I can be every day.

Which acts of gratitude inspire your own leadership?

Whose examples are you grateful for today?

[Image by woodleywonderworks]


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