Can you boost your workplace morale with gratitude? According to research published in Harvard Health, you can.
Research by psychologists Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, show that gratitude helps people feel “more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.”
The resources website 99u.com, in the article, The Secret to an Efficient Team? Gratitude, says the key is making thankfulness a habit, and that you can do it in just a few minutes a day. Here are three gratitude exercises you can try:
1. Make a daily list of what you are grateful for
According to 99u.com, listing things you’re grateful for on a daily basis can increase happiness by 25%, and it only takes a few minutes. For a more positive outlook on the job, your lists should include a few work-related items. “The results will show employees with higher levels of enthusiasm, optimism, determination and energy.”
2. Make the workplace environment one of gratitude and appreciation
Thank people for what that do, as it can motivate future acts of support. According to 99u.com, after being thanked for their personal contributions, participants show increased feelings of value and worth, which is an easy way to support the self-esteem of your colleagues and staff. “For people at the management level, it also suggests just how much support and productivity you could be losing by not expressing gratitude.”
3. Make sure no one is ignored
While founders get most of the credit at startups, this role “can’t be successfully performed without immeasurable support from others” says the website. So, instead of recognising a leader in your organisation for her or his teams’ accomplishments, it’s important to acknowledge the whole team.
