By Sarah Kiely Lavelle
Practising gratitude is big business.
Given that the wellness industry is on track to be worth $USD7 trillion ($AUD10.9 trillion) by 2025 (seven times Australia’s GDP), it appears we’ve bought into the happiness hype.
Focusing on the good in our lives and training our minds to feel genuine appreciation can be a positive practice.
Gratitude, a mindfulness exercise feted by many famous faces––some even attribute their success in life to the ritual––has been around for years.
However, it can also harbour a more sinister side, and evidence of gratitude being weaponised in the workplace is a growing concern, as insincere expressions of gratitude can be used as manipulation tactics to conceal mistreatment.
Unrealistic expectations to remain upbeat in times of stress can take a huge toll on our mental health over a sustained period.
Likewise, by forcing our own personal narrative that everything is ok, we may run the risk of gaslighting ourselves and discounting our distress. This can result in ignoring our instincts and remaining in situations that are unhealthy.
Warning signs at work
Toxic gratitudemany forms
Worryingly, toxic gratitude can lead to an abuse of power among authority figures and management and individuals may find it difficult to raise concerns for fear of being dismissed, potentially creating a culture of avoidance as a result.
Superficial compliments can also result in a lack of meaningful feedback and potentially leave staff feeling undervalued. It’s been shown that structured and constructive conversations are more beneficial and can foster a culture of genuine appreciation, understanding, and respect.
Tackling the toxicity
If you feel like your own workplace is a prime example of toxic gratitude, here’s how to tackle it in five manageable steps:
1. Feedback is fundamental
A safe space for employees and co-workers to share their issues is crucial when creating a genuine environment for feedback. Encouraging both employees and employers to engage in honest and constructive feedback may implement changes for the better.
2. Listen more
By actively listening and leading with empathy we can get a better understanding of an individual’s needs. Addressing issues instead of dismissing them with toxic gratitude can improve relationships at work.
3. Equitable environments
Addressing power imbalances or outdated hierarchy structures within the workplace is important. Also celebrating diversity and different points of view has been proven to create a more diverse culture and better learnings for all.
4. Teamwork
Promoting goodwill among staff and celebrating authentic achievements may reduce competition and opportunity for manipulation or conditional compliments from management occurring.
5. Opportunity for advancement
To avoid stagnation on-the-job learning is a great way to keep skill sets sharp and the passion for your job ignited. This may increase the likelihood of genuine gratitude for your profession and how to avoid unhealthy behaviours.
Passionate about your future within the beauty industry? We’ve hand-picked three exciting career opportunities for advancement from the Professional Beauty Job Board.
Retail Business Manager, AESOP Corporate, Perth, WA
Founded almost 40 years ago, Aesop is a luxury Aussie cosmetics brand adored the world over. A position has become available for a driven and highly motivated Retail Business Manager to join its WA team. You will be responsible for overseeing and developing the Perth, WA stores and counters. Previous retail experience is imperative as is a solid understanding of analysis and financial management. You will be actively coaching, developing, and motivating staff, so excellent communication and interpersonal skills are a must. If this sounds like a fit for your skill set, full details on how to apply can be found here.
Commercial Analytics Executive, The Estée Lauder Companies, Sydney
Do you have experience in analysing sales forecasts, building and managing comprehensive financial models? Can you make strategic business recommendations rooted in data in a high-pressure and fast-paced beauty environment? If so, the position of Commercial Analytics Executive might be for you. You’ll be responsible for driving and supporting all sales planning and reporting activities to achieve effective and efficient sales execution. The role is based in Sydney within Estée Lauder, a global leader in luxury beauty. More details are available here.
Area Manager, Laser Clinics Australia, Cranbourne, Vic/Tas
Laser Clinics is the largest cosmetic clinic in the world, specialising in laser hair removal, skin treatments, cosmetic injectables, and body sculpting. The company is the market-leading aesthetics provider and as the brand expands, Laser Clinics is seeking an experienced Area Manager to develop business plans and improve clinic profitability. Covering the Victoria and Tasmania territories, you will work with clinic managers and teams to execute operational plans and support new clinics to achieve targets. Full job spec and deadline on applications are available here.
For thousands more inspiring, industry opportunities visit the Professional Beauty Jobs Board today.
This article was produced in partnership with Jobbio.
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