Gratitude photo from ShutterstockWhat is one of the best ways to stand out in your career?

Simple. Recognize people. Thank them. Repeat!

This is the time of year when we get to reflect a little. It’s not quite the end of the year yet and a lot of people have a few days off. Which allows us a few days to think, plan and prepare ourselves to insure the last few weeks of the year are productive. It’s also a chance to make sure we recognize the people that make an impact and a difference in our lives.

Of course, since this week is also the Thanksgiving holiday in the USA there will be a lot of family time. Which is a good thing. We should take time to thank our families for all they have done for us. I also suggest you think about the people you work with and consider thanking them for what they do for you too.

A few people I am grateful to know

I’ve been fortunate in my 20+ years in business to meet a lot of people from all over the world.

Over the past few years I have had the good fortune to meet and get to know the three people mentioned below. They have indomitable spirits and are willing to share what they know and they give back BIG!

For this I thank them and I’m proud to call them friends.

  • Mark Aschemeyer – He dealt with a horrendous bicycling accident a few months ago and has channeled his energy into recovery… and a new leadership role at a new company.
  • Molly Cantrell-KraigShe made a move to The Windy City to help her foundation, Women With Drive, move to the next level. She’s making a difference and getting it done.
  • Liz Strauss – There is so much to say about Liz that it could take days just to scratch the surface covering the impact she has had on so many lives. Liz founded an event called SOBCon that continues to be the best event I have ever attended.

Recognizing the good

One easy way to get started: For the people in your life that help you get things done or have helped you with a project or perhaps a job transition or search… send them a note. Whether it’s an email, a note in the mail or a post-it on their desk. It doesn’t need to be a long detailed note. Just a quick sentiment, highlighting something specific they did for you and to say thanks.

Gratitude is contagious

Have you caught the gratitude virus?

What are you grateful for?