Building a Culture of Gratitude
As we enter the season of giving thanks, it’s a great time to think about the importance of gratitude, not only in our personal lives but also in our workplaces. In the funeral service and deathcare profession, where compassion and support are at the heart of what we do, practicing gratitude can make a big difference for ourselves and those we work with. Inspired by Amy Gallo’s article in the Harvard Business Review, “Giving Thanks at Work: An HBR Guide,” I’d like to explore how bringing more gratitude into our lives and others can impact our work culture and personal well-being.
Why Gratitude Matters in Our Profession
According to Gallo, gratitude isn’t just about being polite; it has real benefits. Research shows that expressing gratitude can improve our well-being, lower stress, and even make us more resilient. For us in funeral service, these benefits are essential, as our work can be emotionally challenging. By taking time to show appreciation to our colleagues and ourselves, we build a culture that values kindness, respect, and support—qualities that are essential in our profession.
When we genuinely thank our team members, it not only lifts them up but also strengthens our own connection to our work. David DeSteno, a professor who studies how emotions influence our choices, explains that gratitude inspires people to be more loyal and willing to help each other, creating a more positive and productive environment. In a profession where teamwork and empathy are key, this can lead to better care for the families we serve.
Coaching, Mentoring, and Gratitude
As a mentor and coach, I often encourage others to embrace a mindset of gratitude. Coaching is an opportunity not only to support others but also to show appreciation for their efforts and contributions. By thanking team members for their hard work, we help them feel valued and included. As Gallo points out, a specific, heartfelt “thank you” makes people more likely to lend a hand again in the future. It builds a foundation of respect and gratitude, which benefits everyone on the team.
For those in leadership roles, setting an example of gratitude can encourage others to do the same. Simple actions, like starting a team meeting with “thank-you’s” or creating a shared space where team members can post notes of appreciation, can have a big impact. When leaders encourage gratitude, it spreads throughout the organization, making it a core value that everyone shares.
The Benefits of Journaling Gratitude
An easy way to include gratitude in our lives is through journaling. Studies mentioned in Gallo’s article show that keeping a gratitude journal can reduce negativity at work and improve how we treat our colleagues. Taking a few moments each day to write down what we’re thankful for, whether it’s a coworker’s help, a family’s gratitude, or personal achievements, can help us approach each day with a more positive mindset. Journaling doesn’t just benefit us; it also shapes how we interact with our colleagues and the families we serve, creating a kinder, more compassionate workplace.
One effective way I teach my clients to foster a gratitude mindset is through daily journaling. Every morning, I encourage them to write down at least one thing they are grateful for in their lives. This simple practice helps them start each day with a positive outlook by recognizing the people, moments, or blessings they appreciate.
By consistently journaling, we can all become more aware of the positive aspects of our current circumstances, whether it’s in our jobs, relationships, or personal lives. Beginning each day with gratitude can shift our mindset, enabling us to face challenges with resilience and optimism. When we cultivate this habit in ourselves, it naturally influences our interactions with others, helping us contribute to a more supportive and compassionate workplace.
I’m thrilled to share a special gift with you. In collaboration with my dear friend and colleague, Marguerite Ham, Owner of Igniting Success, Professional Development Trainer, Leadership Coach, and Conference Keynote Speaker, we’re offering a free journal created specifically for our profession. This unique journal is filled with thoughtful prompts and journaling tips designed to help you reflect, grow, and navigate the unique challenges we face in funeral service.
If you’d like to receive a free copy, simply reach out to Taylor at taylor@yourfuneralcoach.com. We’d love to share this resource with you as a token of our appreciation for the important work you do every day.
The holiday season is a perfect time to start showing gratitude more intentionally, both for ourselves and to those around us. Whether it’s a handwritten note, a quick message, or a simple “thank you,” showing appreciation is a powerful way to build a healthier and more positive workplace. Let’s commit to making gratitude a regular practice—not just for the season, but for the years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about my coaching services or exploring ways to improve the culture in your workplace, I’d love to connect. Feel free to reach out and schedule a free 30-minute call with me. I’d be delighted to discuss how we can support your goals and bring positive change to your organization.
