The Most Underused Performance-enhancing Behavior

I recently read an article by Scott Hutcheson highlighting material in a book by psychologist Robert Emmons called Biohacking Leadership: Leveraging the Biology of Behavior to Maximize Impact. The article isolates GRATITUDE as the simplest, most underused performance-enhancing behavior in modern work. I propose that GRATITUDE, along with KINDNESS, are the simplest and most effective behaviors to improve our lives in general.

Many years ago, a friend suggested that I create a Gratitude Journal. Since starting this, every morning, as I sit down at my table for my morning beverage, meal and reading material, I enter a simple note in my Gratitude Journal. It can be a few words or a more detailed description of something that I observed the day before or maybe a dream that I had. This simple gesture sets my path for the day. It keeps me mindful of the many things that I come across in my day for which I am grateful (it’s really everything isn’t it?). 

I recommend a Gratitude Journal to anyone who wants to start their day on a positive note, no matter the headwinds and storms circling around us.