By: Eric Betts
As we approach Thanksgiving, a season marked by reflection and gratitude, leaders have a unique opportunity to re-examine how they view those they lead. Too often, leadership is framed as a position of authority or benevolence—an act of doing others a favor by employing or guiding them. But true leadership recognizes that every individual within an organization is a gift—an essential contributor whose presence, skill, and perspective enrich the collective mission. When leaders begin to see people not merely as resources but as blessings, it transforms the tone and health of the entire organization.
Gratitude in leadership does not negate accountability or high standards; rather, it reframes them. It invites leaders to see excellence not as something extracted from employees but cultivated with them. A thankful leader sees value even in the expected—the routine faithfulness of those who consistently show up, the quiet diligence of those who complete tasks without fanfare. Gratitude expands a leader’s capacity to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, the sacred in the seemingly small. It’s easy to applaud success; it takes intentional leadership to be thankful for consistency.
When gratitude becomes the posture of leadership, it ripples throughout the organization. Teams become more cohesive, morale strengthens, and innovation grows. People are far more willing to invest their best when they feel seen, appreciated, and valued—not only for what they produce but for who they are. A culture of thankfulness creates psychological safety, which in turn breeds creativity and trust. This shift from “I’m doing you a favor” to “I’m grateful you’re here” can move any organization from survival to significance.
As we enter this Thanksgiving season, may leaders everywhere pause to thank the people who make their work possible. Let your gratitude be both spoken and shown—through recognition, fairness, listening, and care. For the greatest leaders are not those who simply inspire others to work harder, but those who understand that every person they lead is a reflection of grace—an irreplaceable gift that, when cherished, elevates the entire organization to new levels of purpose and excellence.
By: Eric Betts
Assistant Director, Curtis Coleman Center for Religion Leadership and Culture at Athens State University
