I am so very thankful!

I’m thankful for my life.

I’m thankful for my beautiful bride.

I’m thankful for my family and friends.

I’ve had a blessed career that has introduced me to countless amazing people.

I have so much to be grateful for—and I really am.

But as a leader, I realize that not enough people hear that from me the way I intend.

I say the words, and I truly mean them.

I’ve learned that saying “thank you” isn’t always enough.

What I want—and need—to practice is saying “thank you” in a way that makes people feel seen and appreciated.

“Thank you.”

Two short and sweet words.

Yet without taking the time to let the recipient truly feel them, they can seem hollow.  

A quick, drive-by “thanks” can feel automatic or even dismissive.

Gratitude often requires more than words. It requires our attention.

Sometimes we need to slow down or even stop what we are doing, look someone in the eyes, acknowledge specifically what they did, and let them know why it matters.

Let them know that they matter.

I recognize that I can’t look you in the eyes as I write this, but I want you to know that I genuinely appreciate you taking the time to read The Sharper Minute and the Sharper Leader spotlights.

All the reading, studying, learning, writing, and sharing required to create and maintain sharperleaders.com continues to reveal countless ways for me to become sharper as a leader and a person.

And you are part of that journey.

As we continue to lead, learn, and grow together, I want to say two words that I hope you feel as much as you read them:

Thank you.