Lean Quote: From Words to Action - Leading with Gratitude this Thanksgiving

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts."   —  Henri-Frédéric Amiel

As leaders, we often express thanks to our employees—especially during the Thanksgiving season. But as Amiel reminds us, true gratitude goes beyond spoken words. While thankfulness acknowledges appreciation, gratitude turns that feeling into meaningful action. In the workplace, it’s not enough to say “thank you”; we must show it in ways that make employees feel valued, respected, and recognized for their contributions.

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to reflect on how our teams have contributed to success throughout the year and to demonstrate our appreciation in tangible ways. When employees feel genuinely appreciated, engagement rises, trust deepens, and a culture of respect takes root. Gratitude in action transforms good workplaces into great ones.

Here are practical ways to turn thankfulness into action this holiday season:

1. Make it Personal – Write handwritten notes to employees, highlighting specific contributions they’ve made and how they’ve impacted the team or organization.
2. Public Recognition – Use team meetings or company updates to publicly acknowledge individual and group achievements.
3. Give the Gift of Time – Offer flexible schedules, an early release before the holiday, or an extra day off to spend with family and friends.
4. Share a Meal – Host a Thanksgiving lunch or potluck to bring people together and build connections outside of daily work.
5. Invest in Their Growth – Show long-term appreciation by supporting training, development, and career opportunities.
6. Celebrate Small Wins – Recognize not only big accomplishments but also the day-to-day efforts that keep operations running smoothly.
7. Listen with Intention – Schedule one-on-one time to hear employees’ ideas, concerns, and goals—showing you value their voice as much as their output.

This Thanksgiving, let’s remember that gratitude is a verb. Saying “thank you” is important, but showing it through thoughtful, consistent actions creates lasting impact. In Lean thinking, respect for people is a cornerstone—and gratitude in action is one of the most powerful ways to show that respect.