Last week, I had a conversation with Sarah, one of my career coaching clients, that stuck with me. After our last session, where we talked about workplace relationships, she took a simple yet meaningful step. She wrote a heartfelt email to her former manager, thanking him for giving her a chance three years ago. That small act led to a coffee meet-up, which sparked a conversation about a new opportunity at his current company. It’s incredible how a small gesture of gratitude can open doors you never even saw coming.

After more than a decade of studying careers, I can confidently assert that gratitude is not just a social nicety— it is a transformative force. The real fascination lies in how people’s careers and lives undergo a profound metamorphosis when gratitude becomes a part of their daily routine.

A Season for Reflection

As the year winds down and the holiday lights start to glow, it’s easy to feel more reflective. During a recent professional development session – a little tradition of mine where we spend 15 minutes focusing on personal growth – I asked everyone to do something simple: write two thank-you emails to people who made a difference in their lives this year.

The responses blew me away. One person, Mike, shared that his email to a senior colleague turned into regular mentoring sessions. Another client, Julia, told me how her message of thanks led to an unexpected introduction that completely changed her career path.

Why Gratitude Works (And Not Just Because It Feels Good)

As someone a little obsessed with the science behind human behavior, I find the research on gratitude fascinating. When we express genuine thanks, our brains release dopamine and serotonin – those “feel-good” chemicals that make us happy. And here’s the interesting part: this happens for both the person giving the thanks and the one receiving it. It’s a win-win situation.

Dr. Robert Emmons’ research shows that people who practice gratitude regularly sleep better, build stronger relationships, and bounce back from setbacks more resiliently. But the benefits of gratitude go beyond these immediate effects. When you express gratitude, you not only strengthen your relationships with others but also enhance your own sense of well-being and satisfaction with life. As a career coach, I’ve seen firsthand how clients’ professional lives can transform simply by becoming more intentional about showing appreciation.

Making It Personal

Gratitude is a deeply personal practice. Some clients prefer handwritten notes, others like face-to-face conversations, and many prefer thoughtful emails. The key is to find what feels authentic to you. Gratitude only works if it’s meaningful, so take time to personalize how you express it. For instance, in a professional setting, you might express gratitude to a colleague for their support on a project, or to a mentor for their guidance in your career development.

If you’re starting with emails – which I often recommend – here’s what tends to resonate the most:

 

• Start with a specific memory that stands out to you
• Share how their actions made a difference in your life
• Please talk about the lasting impact they’ve had
• Look ahead to the future and how you hope to continue your relationship

When it’s a really special moment, nothing beats a handwritten note. Sure, it takes more time, but that makes it feel extra meaningful. I still have handwritten notes from mentors tucked away in my desk drawer—little reminders of the people who believed in me before I was able to fully believe in myself.

Starting Your Gratitude Practice

If you’re wondering where to begin, here’s what’s worked for my clients who’ve made gratitude a regular part of their lives:

First, take 15 minutes to reflect. Think about the people who’ve shaped your year – not just mentors and close colleagues, but also the everyday heroes who make your work life easier. Maybe the IT person always comes through in a pinch, or the coworker asks about your family during tough times.

Next, choose your method. Some clients prefer sending emails on Friday afternoons; others jot down notes over their coffee. The timing and method are less important than the consistency and sincerity behind your message.

The Ripple Effect

What continues to amaze me is how expressing gratitude creates a ripple effect. When someone receives genuine thanks, they’re more likely to pay it forward. I’ve seen team dynamics shift because one person started a chain reaction of appreciation.

Your Turn

With the year coming to a close, this is the perfect time to start your gratitude practice. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures – it’s about taking small steps. Those two thank-you emails I mentioned earlier? That’s all it takes to get started. You might be surprised how a single “thank you” can transform a relationship, open new doors, or brighten someone’s day. It’s a simple but powerful way to grow both personally and professionally.

In all my years of coaching, I’ve noticed that the most successful people aren’t just great at their jobs – they’re masters at building meaningful connections. Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools for doing exactly that.

If you want to develop better habits for a more fulfilling life and career, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out anytime – I’d love to hear your story.