Let’s talk leadership. Not the glossy, LinkedIn-approved version where everything’s perfect, and you’re doling out TED-worthy speeches. I’m talking about real leadership. The messy, unpredictable kind that involves coffee stains on your shirt, tough decisions, and wondering if you’re doing it right. 

Been there. Still there some days.

As usual, end-of-the-year noise about crushing goals, “leveling up,” and all those buzzwords that make me want to snooze are flying around. But before you dive headfirst into planning your next big move, I want to share something that’s been a game-changer for me: gratitude.

Gratitude is not fluff. It’s not a “nice-to-have” leadership trait. It’s what can make the difference between leading with authenticity and feeling like an imposter in a power suit. So grab your coffee (or tea, if you’re one of those people), and let’s dig in.

Why gratitude is your leadership superpower

Here’s the thing: leadership isn’t about hitting every goal or looking like you have it all together (because, spoiler alert, none of us do). It’s about showing up as your most authentic self, warts and all. Gratitude helps you do that.

When I stop and take stock of what’s going well – yes, even on those dumpster fire days – I notice something: I feel grounded. Less frantic. More focused. Gratitude acts like a mirror. It reflects where I am, who I’ve become, and what actually matters. And honestly? That’s priceless.

Think about it. When you’re grateful, you stop chasing external validation or shiny new milestones. Instead, you lead from a place of intention. You’re not running on the hamster wheel of “more, more, more.” You’re moving forward with clarity and purpose. And let me tell you, that’s a pretty good place to be.

The Gratitude Inventory: a leader’s cheat code

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Gratitude sounds great, Mike, but how do I actually do it?” Glad you asked. Introducing the Gratitude Inventory™ (not trademarked, but it sounds fancy, right?).

Here’s how it works:

1. Sit down (preferably with coffee).
2. Ask yourself three questions:
   • What moments shaped me as a leader this year?
   • Who contributed to my growth – even the ones who challenged me?
   • What am I proud of, even if it didn’t scream “success” to the world?

I did this recently, and let me tell you – it was humbling. Sure, I celebrated some wins, but I also noticed the quiet progress I’d overlooked. The relationships I’d built. The lessons I’d learned the hard way.

And here’s the kicker: it’s not about pretending everything’s rosy. It’s about seeing the full picture – the good, the bad, and the “I-can’t-believe-I-survived-that” moments.

Real talk: gratitude isn’t always easy

Let’s be honest: some days, gratitude feels impossible. Like when the Wi-Fi goes out during a big presentation, or you realize you’ve been talking to yourself on mute for five minutes in a Zoom call (just me?).

But those are the moments when gratitude matters most. Instead of spiraling, I ask myself:

• What can I appreciate here?
• What’s this teaching me?

It’s not about sugarcoating reality. It’s about finding the silver linings. And let me tell you, they’re always there – sometimes hiding, but there.

Gratitude and the ripple effect

One of my favorite things about gratitude? It’s contagious. When you start practicing it, people around you can’t help but catch the vibe.

Take your team, for example. When you show genuine appreciation not just for results but for effort and intention, it creates a ripple effect. People feel seen and valued. They’re more engaged, more motivated, and (dare I say it) happier to be part of your mission.

And it’s not just about the team. Gratitude shifts the energy of every interaction. Whether it’s with clients, partners, or even your in-laws (hey, miracles happen), leading with gratitude builds trust and optimism.

My personal gratitude ritual

Here’s a glimpse into how I keep gratitude alive in my leadership:

• Morning gratitude journal: Every day, I write down three things I’m grateful for. Sometimes it’s profound (family, health), and sometimes it’s coffee (a recurring theme).
• Verbal acknowledgment: I make it a point to thank people with specific, heartfelt words.
• Reframing challenges: When things go sideways (and they always do), I pause to find something to appreciate like the fact that I’m learning patience, whether I like it or not.

Why gratitude matters more than ever

Leadership in 2025 will come with its fair share of challenges like new tech, evolving markets, and the occasional curveball. But if there’s one thing I know, it’s this: gratitude makes you resilient. It reminds you of what’s possible when things feel impossible. It keeps you grounded when the world feels like it’s spinning too fast. And most importantly, it connects you to the people and purpose that make the whole journey worthwhile.

So, as you think about the leader you want to be in 2025, don’t just focus on strategy or goals. Make room for gratitude. And if you need a little inspiration? Grab a copy of All In. I wrote it for leaders like you – messy, human, and striving for something meaningful. You’ve got this.

Here’s to a gratitude-filled 2025. Now, go lead like you mean it.

-Mike

PS – To transform your working environment and create an unstoppable team, get ALL IN now.