Gratitude is an emotion that transcends boundaries, influences perspectives, and has the potential to transform our lives. In a recent interview with Executive Coach and HR Consultant Carol Sachowski, hosted by Tedi Bezna, we had the privilege of delving deep into the significance of gratitude and how it shapes our personal and professional journeys.
Carol Sachowski, the founder of storycoaching inc., has dedicated her career to promoting healthier, values-based approaches to business and life pursuits. Her journey into the realm of gratitude began in high school, influenced by a series of books on self-development and personal growth. In those early days, long before coaching and the internet era, Carol was drawn to literature that emphasized relationships, mindfulness, and kindness.
As she navigated the complexities of high school, Carol learned the importance of valuing relationships and appreciating the people who surrounded her. High school, with its diverse mix of students, cliques, and peer pressure, often mirrors the challenges faced in the workplace. This early exploration of gratitude and relationships laid the foundation for Carol’s future work in coaching and consulting.
Carol’s perspective on gratitude is refreshingly holistic. She believes that emotions are neither positive nor negative but serve as indicators of our internal states. By recognizing and understanding our emotions, we gain valuable insights into ourselves and our surroundings. Gratitude is not about manufacturing false happiness but appreciating our current circumstances and the journey we’ve undertaken thus far.
One striking aspect of Carol’s approach is her emphasis on capturing and acknowledging the full range of emotions, especially during challenging times. She encourages her clients to document their emotional experiences, acknowledging the presence of sorrow and loss when they occur. Through this process, individuals can navigate their experiences, gain wisdom, and find gratitude in unexpected moments, even in adversity.
In the interview, Carol shared heartwarming anecdotes from her family, illustrating the power of gratitude in personal relationships. Her mother’s tradition of sharing stories about her students’ acts of appreciation during the holiday season exemplifies how expressing gratitude can create strong bonds and lasting memories.
For those who are skeptical or resistant to gratitude practices, Carol offers pragmatic advice. She suggests using alternative terms like “appreciation” to make the concept more accessible. She also advocates for creative expressions of gratitude, such as using video or photography to capture meaningful moments. By finding approaches that resonate with each individual, Carol helps clients tap into the transformative potential of gratitude.
Moreover, Carol highlights the importance of slowing down in a culture obsessed with constant progress. Taking a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate our journey can enhance our overall well-being and satisfaction. This perspective aligns with the idea that gratitude can be a source of joy at every step of our endeavors, not just at the finish line.
In summary, Carol Sachowski’s insights into gratitude are both profound and practical. Her journey from high school to a successful coaching career demonstrates the lasting impact of embracing gratitude. By recognizing the full spectrum of emotions and finding personalized approaches to gratitude, individuals can cultivate resilience and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. Carol’s wisdom serves as a reminder that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion but a powerful force that can shape our narratives and lead us toward greater happiness and success.
Listen to the podcast, watch the interview on YouTube and connect with Carol today!