Outside the office, we almost always thank the people who provide us with assistance. We thank the people who serve us food at restaurants, hold open doors for us, and pick up things that we’ve dropped.
But when we’re working, that gratitude tends to disappear. In a survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by the John Templeton Foundation, it was found that people are less likely to express gratitude when they’re in the office than in any other setting. And 60% of workers reported that they rarely or never express gratitude. This may be because they feel like they shouldn’t have to thank their employees or coworkers for “just doing their jobs.” Or they may be afraid that their gratitude will be viewed as insincere.
This is unfortunate, because researchers have found that gratitude has such positive effects. It strengthens people’s relationships, boosts morale, reduces stress, motivates people to work harder, and enhances productivity. People feel good when they thank others, and they feel good when they receive thanks. Gratitude (both giving it and receiving it) makes people feel happier and more fulfilled at work.
So how well do your managers and coworkers express their gratitude? Click the link below to take a short quiz and find out! At the end of the quiz, you’ll receive a score that tells you how good your office is at expressing gratitude. You’ll also be provided with some tips on how to make your office a more thankful place.
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/quizzes/take_quiz/grateful_organizations
Smith, J. A. (2013, May 16). Five ways to cultivate gratitude at work. Greater Goods Magazine. Retrieved from: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/five_ways_to_cultivate_gratitude_at_work
