Express Gratitude | Andry M. Panjaitan | LeadingSelf Think Others First

Summary

The script emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude, highlighting it as a key practice for fostering a positive environment. It shares the story of Douglas Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup Company, who spent 30 minutes to an hour daily writing personal thank-you letters to employees. Over a decade, he sent about 30,000 letters, building strong connections. The script suggests three practical steps for expressing gratitude: becoming more aware of others' contributions, committing time to acknowledge them, and taking sincere action in showing appreciation, ultimately promoting a culture of recognition and shared goals.

Takeaways

• 💡 The first best practice discussed is 'Add Value.'
• 🙏 The second best practice focuses on 'Express Gratitude.'
• 🤔 Reflect on how often we express gratitude to those around us daily.
• 👥 Recognize the people in our lives who help us get through the day and express appreciation.
• 🌍 Everyone, regardless of position, should express gratitude.
• ✉️ Former Campbell Soup CEO Douglas Conant wrote personal thank-you letters daily to employees, appreciating their contributions.
• 📈 Over a decade, Conant sent around 30,000 thank-you letters, from directors to maintenance staff.
• 💌 Expressing gratitude fosters a sense of involvement and unity towards a common goal.
• 🕰️ Practical step 1: Be more aware of others' contributions and prioritize acknowledging them.
• ⏳ Practical step 2: Commit time to think about who deserves gratitude and express it sincerely.
• 💬 Practical step 3: Take action by finding your own sincere way of showing gratitude, such as personalized notes or verbal recognition.

Q & A

What is the first best practice mentioned in the script?

The first best practice mentioned is to 'Add Value.'

What is the second best practice discussed in the script?

The second best practice discussed is 'Express Gratitude.'

Why is expressing gratitude important, according to the script?

Expressing gratitude helps people feel more involved in reaching a common goal and fosters a sense of connection and appreciation.

How did Douglas Conant, the former CEO of Campbell Soup Company, express gratitude to his employees?

Douglas Conant spent 30 minutes to 1 hour every day writing personal thank you letters to employees who made changes in the company.

How many thank you letters did Douglas Conant send during his decade as CEO?

Douglas Conant sent approximately 30,000 thank you letters during his decade as CEO.

What was the reaction of Conant’s employees when he was hospitalized?

Conant's employees sent him 'get well soon' notes, showcasing the bond created through his habit of expressing gratitude.

What is the first practical step to express gratitude mentioned in the script?

The first practical step is to be more aware of the contributions others make towards our goals.

What is the second practical step for expressing gratitude?

The second practical step is to commit time, such as taking 10 minutes to reflect on who deserves gratitude.

What does the script suggest is the key to expressing sincere gratitude?

The key to expressing sincere gratitude is taking personal action in a way that genuinely reflects one’s appreciation, whether through writing letters or other methods.

Why is it important to give recognition to others, according to the script?

It’s important because most people focus on their own contributions, but recognizing others’ efforts helps foster a culture of mutual appreciation and strengthens relationships.