Gratitude might sound like a soft topic, something for journals and holiday toasts. But for leaders, it’s actually strategic. And science backs it up.
The Brain Science
Your brain has something called neuroplasticity: the ability to create new neural pathways and strengthen existing ones based on your behavior and thought patterns.
Here’s what that means practically: The more you practice gratitude, the more your brain physically changes to notice and appreciate good things. It’s not just a mindset — it’s a measurable transformation in how your brain processes the world.
Scientists agree it takes roughly three positive experiences to counteract one negative experience. This means to maintain energy and optimism, we need to actively trigger positivity.
Three Nightly Questions
One of the simplest practices I recommend to coaching clients is this: Before bed, answer three questions in writing.
- What are you grateful for today, and why?
- What were your wins today, even small ones?
- What upcoming milestone are you anticipating? How will you celebrate?
This practice isn’t about ignoring problems. It’s about training your brain to notice what’s going well, so you have the energy to handle what’s not.
The Leadership Payoff
Leaders who practice gratitude consistently:
- Have more resilience under pressure
- Build stronger team relationships
- Make better decisions (because they’re not operating from a scarcity mindset)
- Experience less burnout
It’s not about being positive all the time. It’s about building the neural pathways that let you lead from strength rather than survival.
The Challenge
Try the three-question practice for one week. Just seven nights.
Notice what shifts in your energy, your focus, and your outlook. This is one of the foundational habits explored in Goodness over Greatness, because leading from the inside out starts with what you’re feeding your mind.
