Let's Talk About Gratitude in the Trenches

Photo by Donald Giannatti on Unsplash

Dear Fearless Leader-Moms,

It's 7 PM on a Thursday.

You're knee-deep in unread emails, contemplating whether your team secretly believes you're a robot designed for perpetual efficiency.

Then, out of nowhere, your little one presents you with a macaroni masterpiece, and boom - reality check.

You're not just a corporate gladiator; you're a superhero with bedtime stories to tell.

I get it; your schedule laughs in the face of yet another masterclass. So, let's not go there. Instead, let's dive into something more revolutionary, more impactful, and - dare I say - quicker than brewing your third cup of coffee for the day: the power of gratitude in balancing work and family.

Gratitude at the Office: Not Just a Thank-You Note

Remember the last time someone acknowledged your work? Felt like winning an Oscar, didn't it? Harvard Business Review isn't shy about championing gratitude as the unsung hero of the workplace. It's not about grand gestures; it's the "Hey, I noticed the effort you put into that report," that transforms the office vibe. This week, I challenge you to be that Oscar presenter. Pick a colleague, acknowledge their hustle, and watch the ripple effect of positivity unfold.

Gratitude at Home: Beyond the Thank-You Cards

Switching gears to the home front - where the stakes (and emotions) run high. It's easy to get caught in the whirlwind of deadlines and dismiss the small victories at home. Tonight, when you're about to prioritize emails over family dinner, pause. Look around. That chaotic dinner table is ripe with moments of gratitude. Share a simple "I'm really glad we're doing this," amidst the spilled milk and sibling negotiations. It's controversial, but here's the truth: sometimes, the best way to balance is to tilt fully into the moment in front of you.

Gratitude, Your Secret Weapon

As I wrap up this non-masterclass lesson, remember: gratitude isn't just about being thankful for what's good. It's about finding the good in everything - yes, even in missed deadlines and burned dinners. It's about acknowledging that while you're pushing for quarterly targets and perfect parenthood, what really matters is recognizing the effort - yours and everyone else's.

So, here's to you, Dear Fearless Leader Mom, for juggling it all with the grace of a seasoned acrobat. Now, go ahead, send that appreciation email, and hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight. Because in the end, it's the gratitude we express, not the accolades we collect, that truly defines our success.

Warmly,

Magdalena