In between meetings, projects looming on the immediate horizon, and the rushed interactions of modern life, have you stopped to say thank you to the people who make everything happen? Not in a glib or half-hearted way, but really stopped and recognized all they do? If so, did you then express your gratitude in a meaningful way? I started thinking about this because I just finished reading The Carrot Principle on my Kindle (which is actually a pretty nice way to read) and it made me think about how we don't say "thank you" enough and really mean it, even when it can have such a profound impact on how we relate to others, and how they relate to you.
The Carrot Principle did a great job using massive amounts of data from surveys to explain critical points, showing the value of saying thank you, and how to systematize the process of expressing gratitude in a company. I would suggest any entrepreneur read the book, since most of us never look for or expect it when someone says "thanks." But not saying thank you doesn't mean you're a better leader or entrepreneur, and it certainly isn't what motivates your people. Be grateful for the work your employees do--and show it in obvious (calling out someone's awesome work) and not-so-obvious ways (respecting their time by not throwing last minute projects their way). No one wants to feel alienated from their work, and when you don't recognize what people do, they start to feel invisible.
After reading this book, I know that I personally need to do a better job of recognizing and celebrating more successes and saying thank you to people myself. Not only will it change my relationships, but it will also help build a culture of gratitude, which can only lead to more professional respect and a better team. Sure, it sounds cheesy, but the small thanks we share can make a huge impact on the people around us.
