By now you have likely come to discover that I am a principles based guy. I believe that if people understand good principles that will drive appropriate behaviors.

 

The Level 7 System is about good business principles that drive great results.

 

As we go into the holiday season, and with tomorrow being Thanksgiving, consider the Principle of Gratitude. I want to be a grateful person. I want my kids to be grateful. I want my kids to have grateful hearts, as do I. When they receive a blessing, I want them to say thank you. Not because they have been taught that saying thank you is good manners. To me that seems legalistic. I want them to say thank you out of genuine appreciation for the gift or whatever they receive.

 

During this time of year it can be easy to get caught up in all the hoopla. Instead perhaps we should sit back and consider the things we are really grateful and the many blessings and privileges we have. Not because we have to or because its the right thing to do. But because we come to a realization that we are truly blessed.

 

Gratitude begins with a thoughtful recognition or inventory of what we do have. Not what we lack. Grateful people are humble. They do not carry with them a spirit of entitlement. They genuinely are grateful for all things.

 

Interestingly, grateful people often have more than they need and lack nothing.

 

If I were to suggest an action step to begin to develop a heart of gratitude, then start with a list. You can either right it down, or take a mental inventory of all the things that you are grateful for.

 

Then simply say thank you. Not because you have to, but because you want too.

 

Have a happy and grateful Thanksgiving.