…Because a thankful heart is a happy heart,
I’m glad for what I have, that’s an easy way to start…

– The [Veggie Tales] Thankfulness Song

Take a look around and see your world in terms of what you have – as opposed to what you don’t have. Then be thankful. This simple exercise serves two ends as a leader.

First, taking a hard look at reality in a positive light (being thankful) helps you be creative with what you’ve been given. Take what you’ve got – the gifts that you have – and use them! How can you use your talents and resources to get to where you want to be?

Second, a thankful heart is a happy heart. Sincere positive emotion can be a powerful motivator with others. Remember that as a leader you set the temperature in the room. If you’re having a good day, the chances of everyone else having a good day are pretty high. Taking care of your own emotional health has a direct effect on the productivity and experience of those around you.

So take a few minutes today between the turkey and the football to really count your blessings. Your heart will thank you!