The importance of gratitude in everyday life
In my leaders’ communication training sessions, I furrow a provocative question: ‘Is gratitude a simple gesture or a valuable investment in relationships?’ This issue generates a reflective pause, as many have not stopped considering it thoroughly.
Gratitude: more than a simple formality
Beyond social conventions, such as the traditional Christmas toast, we have to ask ourselves if it is really important to thank our colleagues and the people around us. Does this expression of gratitude make us more vulnerable or does it strengthen us as individuals? Cicero, the great Roman thinker, argued that gratitude is the highest virtue, the basis of all the others.
Gratitude I Positive Psychology
Recently, gratitude has been the subject of study in the field of positive psychology. Robert Emons, an expert in the subject, defines gratitude as a complex network of thoughts and emotions that interact with each other. This interaction activates different regions of the brain, bringing amazing benefits.
Tangible benefits of practicing gratitude
According to investigations with Mike Mcculough, people who practice gratitude tend to experience an improvement in their mood and in the quality of their sleep. In addition, it has been shown to reduce anxiety and fatigue, as well as inflammation, thus contributing to better general health.
The neuroscience of gratitude
Science reveals that expressing appreciation activates the brain reward system similar to enjoying a sweet sweet. When we give or receive thanks, a waterfall of neurotransmitters is triggered that make us feel good, thus reinforcing positive behavior. Gratitude not only improves our mental health, it also promotes cohesion in work teams.
Positive effects on the workplace
In the work environment, showing thanks can be a powerful tool to increase the motivation and cohesion of the group. Recognition adds value to our self -esteem and, consequently, to the productivity of the team.
Com practicing gratitude
To implement gratitude in our daily lives, we can start with small gestures. For example, writing every night three things we are grateful for can transform our perspective and, over time, leads us to greater happiness.
Final reflections
Thanks to people like Quim Miró, who challenge me to write significant articles, I constantly discover new ways of learning and growing. Gratitude is not only a feeling, but also a practice that can enrich our lives, both personally and professionally.
