Gratitude: How Using It Will Make You Happier and Retain Your Staff

The benefits of practicing gratitude are immense. Gratitude is proven to lessen anxiety, increase happiness, and even improve your sleep. And none of this even touches on the effects on other people when you share your gratitude with them.

Just like children, adults also need to know that their work and their efforts matter. With children, I always encourage people to use “emotionally nutritious” words to fill them up. I will encourage you to do the same with your staff. Don't just tell them that they are doing "well," tell them what you see and exactly the impact that it has on your program and students.

Here is one way you can practice gratitude for your staff today.

Email 2 employees TODAY, expressing your gratitude!

Not only is it helpful for you to reflect on your gratitude for your staff members, but it is incredibly helpful to them to know that you see them and appreciate them. I know you value them, but they need to know it too. Take a moment, right now, to email 2 employees, sharing with them why you are grateful for them (you get bonus points if you handwrite them a note).

Example email templates

The format is simple.

1. Tell them that they are incredible.

2. Give them specific examples of what you have observed and the impact it has

3. Thank them.

Here is how this might look:

Dear Coach Mo,

I wanted to take a moment to tell you how amazing you are. I always notice how welcoming and warm you are when your students arrive at practice. Your smiling face and loving tone really makes a difference for each and every child you coach. This morning I saw you hold hands with a timid 3-year old and walk with her to stretch. I could see her relax and smile when you took her hand. Thanks for being so vibrant and sincere. I really appreciate you.

Thanks,

Kim

OR

Dear Coach Becca,

I just wanted to take a moment to tell you that you are wonderful and I appreciate you. Yesterday, I noticed a kid in your 3PM class having a really hard time. I saw you get down on her level, speak to her in a gentle and loving tone, and offer her love and compassion. I could see the love in your face and hers. Your empathy and patience did not go unnoticed. Thank you for being you!

Thanks,

Kim

“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” – Cynthia Ozick

Imagine yourself receiving this sort of recognition. Feels good, right?

Let’s commit to pause, notice, AND recognize all of the amazing work that is happening around us.... for their sake and yours!