The Rhythm of Gratitude: A Quiet Leader's Superpower

As the year winds down, it’s a natural time to reflect on what has passed and to consider the year ahead. For quiet leaders - those who lead from presence, integrity, and consistency - one of the most transformative rhythms we can cultivate is gratitude.

Gratitude for quiet leaders isn’t about performing grand gestures or finding the perfect words. It’s noticing the small acts that make a difference: a supportive word, a completed task, or the calm presence we bring to our teams and relationships. These small acknowledgments ripple outward, building trust, connection, and influence without needing to be loud or directive.

How Gratitude Shows Up Through the Enneagram Centers of Intelligence

Heart Types (2, 3, 4)

• Gratitude softens self-criticism, allowing them to receive rather than earn love.

• It deepens authentic connections and reduces relational pressure.

• It balances emotional intensity by highlighting steady, good things.

Head Types (5, 6, 7)

• Gratitude interrupts overthinking and anxiety, bringing calm clarity.

• It strengthens trust in patterns of support and provision.

• It grounds new ideas, helping Head types appreciate what they already have.

Gut Types (8, 9, 1)

• Gratitude softens reactive tendencies, creating space for intentional response.

• It highlights progress and what’s working, not just what needs fixing.

• It strengthens grounded presence, allowing natural strength and calm to shine.

  
  

A Quiet Leader’s Practice of Gratitude

This week, consider:

• Noticing one small act by someone else that you’re grateful for - even if unnoticed by others.

• Expressing that gratitude quietly - a short note, a kind word, or a simple acknowledgment.

• Observing how this shifts your energy and leadership influence.

  
  

I was recently gifted a gratitude journal and I'm using it I’m using a gratitude journal to focus not just on what I’m grateful for, but specifically on one person each day. Then I am being intentional about sharing my gratitude, in a simple but since way. Sharing my gratitude has been energizing and has helped me slow down and celebrate the subtle victories that make leadership meaningful.

Gratitude is more than a “nice thing to do.” For quiet leaders, it’s a way to lead with presence, care, and intentional influence. By recognizing the unseen, we cultivate a culture of trust, connection, and encouragement.

For more insights and practical ways to bring gratitude into your leadership, check out the full podcast episode on Strength in Numbers.

Here's the journal I'm using, if you're interested in adopting this for the upcoming new year.

Are you ready to take your quiet leadership to the next level? I’d love to help. Learn more about my Enneagram coaching here! Mention this blog and receive 20% off the coaching package of your choice!

And remember, my quiet leading friends… there’s strength in numbers.