Welcome to our latest blog post, where I reflect on episode 5 of The Compassionate Newsroom podcast, "E05: A Season of Thanks: Cultivating Gratitude in the Newsroom." I’ll share how integrating gratitude has transformed my professional journey.
Discovering Gratitude's Power My journey with gratitude began during my Ph.D. studies at the University of Florida, leading to a practice that I brought to Georgia College. Encouraging my students to create gratitude jars, I saw firsthand how such a simple practice could profoundly impact well-being.
Gratitude's Role in Professional Settings As co-chair of the National Association of Black Journalists Wellness Task Force, we start our meetings by sharing what we’re grateful for, strengthening our team and enhancing resilience in our high-pressure field.
Why Gratitude Matters in High-Stress Jobs Gratitude in the workplace can:
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety: It shifts focus from negatives to positives.
- Strengthen Teams: Acknowledging contributions fosters a supportive environment.
- Enhance Well-being: Regular practices lead to better health and satisfaction.
Essential Reading For deeper insights into integrating gratitude at work, Sarah Lewis’s Positive Psychology in Business: 101 Workplace Ideas and Applications is an invaluable resource. Lewis offers structured methods that can transform workplace dynamics.
Incorporating Gratitude Start meetings with gratitude sharing, encourage personal gratitude journals, and make public acknowledgments a routine. These steps can significantly enhance the workplace atmosphere.
Further Reading and Recognition My insights on gratitude were recently highlighted in an insightful article by Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware titled "The Spiritual and Scientific Benefits of Saying Thank You." In it, the power of gratitude is explored not just as a holiday tradition but as a transformative force throughout the year. I invite you to read this piece to deepen your understanding of gratitude’s profound impact.
Thank you for joining me in exploring gratitude’s transformative power. Purchasing Lewis’s book through our Amazon link supports the Compassionate Newsroom podcast and provides you with a guide to making gratitude a cornerstone of your leadership strategy.
