Gratitude is a significant human value that people practice and demonstrate through deliberate actions. Simply stated, it is ‘to be thankful’ towards the ‘blessings’ received from others and actioned by giving back to the society. It evidences happiness and well-being at the individual level, fosters positive mindsets and strengthens relationships among communities. It is a personal value through recognition of positive moments one receives and reflects on learning journey throughout personal and professional development. This feeling helps in staying connected with people and situations, stay inspired by the environment which impacted deeply at a critical stage in one’s personal and professional life.
Gratitude is a leadership quality with transforming power. Practicing gratitude transforms both the individuals and organisations. Maintaining a gratitude journal helps one to record their reflections on moments, people and institutions which influenced them positively. It builds resilience and objectivity to take steps for future action and yet look back with joy and well-being.
Gratitude is a feeling or expression by students towards their alma mater and often verbalised through an informal note or a formal message sent to the faculty, friends, mentors. Every aspect of the institution, say a lecture, a mentor, a friend, a peer etc are likely sources of making a difference.
Gratitude is also demonstrated through the Alumni association where students stay connected with their alma mater after completing the course. Institutions offer a wide range of possibilities through volunteering, fund raining and sponsorship initiatives and further learning pathways. There are opportunities provided to continue the learning journey with alumni engagement activities and further learning. There are also events which open doorways to career growth and networking. Many top institutions and universities encourage a strong alumni engagement and sponsorship of academic activities on campus. The academic projects on campus and industry connection are made effective with gratitude.
What did you feel thankful about? Whom have you thanked today? How will you take the joyful feeling forward in your personal and professional future?