Intentional Leadership, not Performative Gratitude

As we wind down the year, I invite you to be brave.

Humble.

Vulnerable.

Begin your next meeting with a pause.

A deep breath.

Silence.

Let the moment land.

Then say, “Thank you.”

Don’t rush past it.

Stay.

Thank them for their time.

Their wisdom.

Their choice to dedicate their moments—and energy—to your team.

This will feel powerful.

It may feel uncomfortable.

That’s the point.

It’s easy to untether the tension—to speed up your speech, pivot to business, move on.

But what if you didn’t?

What if you took thirty minutes to share gratitude.

To name impressive wins and subtle, unseen moments that shifted the work.

To validate effort.

To make eye contact with each person who contributed to your success.

Take a moment to truly connect.

Be the leader you admire.

You have an opportunity at this moment. What will you do with it?