The conventional wisdom of “leaving your personal issues at the door” might not be the most effective approach for leaders aiming to motivate and
Empower their teams. Instead, embracing the notion that leaders are whole individuals, shaped by experiences inside and outside the workplace, could prove crucial in aiding them through their often challenging, exhausting, and sometimes unappreciated roles. Recent insights from the University of Florida suggest a transformative impact of reflecting on familial gratitude on leadership qualities.
The study highlights that leaders who take time to consider the appreciation they receive from family members will likely experience heightened levels of prosocial impact. This refers to their perceived ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others, which, in turn, spurs them to act more supportively and empoweringly towards their staff at work. Klodiana Lanaj, the Martin L. Schaffel Professor at UF Warrington College of Business, points out that realizing one’s positive influence on loved ones meets fundamental psychological needs. These feelings of fulfilment don’t just stay at home; they inspire leaders to bring the same supportive energy to their professional interactions, enhancing their engagement with direct reports.
Lanaj explains that the secret lies in actively reflecting on and relishing these moments of familial gratitude. This not only prolongs the positive emotions but also magnifies their effects. She suggests a practical approach: leaders should spend a few moments each morning reflecting and writing about instances where a family member has expressed thanks for something done at home. This simple routine can set a tone for the day, making leaders more attentive and responsive to their employees’ needs and encouraging a more inclusive decision-making process at work.
The research team, including Jasmine Hu from Ohio State University, Daniel Kim from UF Warrington, and Lanaj, conducted field experiments involving over 300 leaders and 100 employees from various sectors. Leaders were asked to write about their experiences of receiving gratitude at home before beginning their workday. Surveys conducted later in the day showed that this morning’s reflection led to noticeably more supportive and empowering behaviours towards their employees, as observed by both the leaders and their employees.
The implications of these findings extend beyond individual leaders to the broader organizational context. Kim elaborates that expressions of gratitude at home not only enrich the leaders’ personal lives but also have a ripple effect, enhancing the work environment for their teams. This dynamic contributes to a cycle of positivity that benefits both the leaders and their employees, fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages helpfulness and empowerment. This is a hopeful prospect for leaders striving to create a positive work environment.
In practical terms, Lanaj and Kim advocate for a straightforward two-step method for leaders to harness the power of gratitude. Firstly, leaders should begin their day by recalling a specific incident where they positively impacted a family member who, in turn, showed appreciation. That isn’t just about boosting your mood but personal growth. Secondly, they should vividly reimagine that moment, focusing on the actions taken, the family member’s response and the emotions felt afterwards. This practice of savouring the gratitude received not only boosts the leader’s mood but also enhances their effectiveness throughout the day.
By examining the role of gratitude leaders receive, the study broadens our understanding of the profound effects of personal life satisfaction on professional effectiveness. The research underscores the potential for gratitude reflections to cultivate a positive, supportive work environment, promote prosocial behaviour, and improve overall leadership quality. This approach challenges traditional norms and offers a fresh perspective on leadership development, emphasizing the integration of personal fulfilment into professional growth.
More information: Hu, J. (J.), Kim, D., & Lanaj, K. The benefits of reflecting on gratitude received at home for leaders at work: Insights from three field experiments, Journal of Applied Psychology. DOI: 10.1037/apl0001194
Journal information: Journal of Applied Psychology Provided by University of Florida