Anyone who knows me, knows how important a quality gratitude is to me. It makes all the difference in the world, and can turn any dreary situation into a joyful one. It can change our personal lives for the good, but it can also brighten up our entrepreneurial spirit.
I’ve already discussed how being grateful can be good for your health, but it can also improve your work, creativity and productivity as a business owner. Here are three ways to practice gratitude every day:
1. Write thank you notes
When I was young, I had a mentor who told me to write a thank you note any time someone did something kind. As a 14-year-old, it seemed excessive to me, but as I grew older, I realized how far such a small act can go. I learned to pay special attention to the acts of kindness others showed me and grew more appreciative of others.
Plus, people are more likely to perform better and be more willing to help when they know you’ll recognize them for what they do – even if your recognition comes in the form of a simple note. Set a goal to write a certain amount of letters every day or each week so you can pay special attention to moments or people who help make your business what it is.
Even if you know of an employee you don’t talk to often, sending them a note of thanks could show them that you notice all the work they do – however minimal your direct communication might be.
2. Celebrate your customers
Everything your business has grown into, you owe to your customers. When customers commit long-term to a start-up, they’re taking a risk because they believe in you. Return that favor by celebrating them! That can be as simple as sending them one of those thank-you notes, giving them an honorable mention in your newsletter or sending them small birthday gifts.
Taking time to thank your customers can improve customer loyalty and demonstrate to your employees the importance you place on customer service in your company.
3. Recognize what was good about each day
A family member once gave me a gratitude journal and challenged me to write five things I was grateful for every day. That was four years ago, and I’ve tried to keep up with it every day. Some days are easier than others, but there are always at least five things worth recognizing in a day.
The same can be said about your business. Even if it feels like everything is going wrong, there are tons of things to feel grateful for, whether that’s an employee who stayed late to help you out or the dutiful custodians who come on time every evening – and never ask you why you’re still there. Searching for these moments for which to feel grateful can help you appreciate all the little pieces that build up your business.
While demonstrating gratitude can help you personally, you’ll also be surprised to see how much it can benefit your business, employees and customers.
by: Emily Brady
Emily Brady is a content writer for AFEUSA. Her education in Communication Sciences with an emphasis in journalism from Brigham Young University makes her a great fit for AFEUSA. Emily enjoys writing and often works as a freelance writer in her free time.