We can probably all agree that in general, it's good to be grateful. And if probed, we can probably all pull out one or two things that warrant saying "thanks". But why does it matter? And why does it matter for a learning company?

Well, as it happens, there is science around the benefits of gratitude. Grateful people tend to be healthier both mentally and physically. A 2012 study at the University of Kentucky found that people who ranked higher on gratitude scales tended to exhibit more empathy and sensitivity toward others. A 2014 study showed that thanking new acquaintances opened the door to building a new relationship or opportunity. A study published in Personality and Individual Differences showed that grateful people tend to exercise and maintain a regular check up schedule more often than those who report not feeling grateful. And finally, a recent UC Berkeley study showed that people who are more grateful showed a greater neural sensitivity in the medial prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with learning and decision making. 

“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

So it seems that gratitude matters. Here at Allen Interactions we have a lot to be grateful for; from our clients to our coworkers to our leaders. Every Allenite contributes to the betterment of the team. We all work together to build a stable yet flexible foundation for learning to grow.

In this month of gratitude, we're taking the opportunity to share some of the things that Allenites are grateful for. Some of us are thankful for family, for some it's meaningful work, others give thanks for the popcorn machine in the kitchen. There's plenty of thanks to go around.

I am thankful for the ability to learn new things everyday from everybody I meet. There is never a day that I do not learn something I did not know from somebody whether they are 10 years old or 82 years old. Or, anywhere in between. - Rich P.

I’m grateful for coffee – and for the leftover Halloween candy people bring into the office! - Allison N.

For surprises - Carly B-R.

I am grateful for the kindness of strangers. - Ethan E.

Collaborating with such amazing Clients who continue to challenge us and help us in our pursuit of ensuring “No Boring Learning” - Lisa S.

I am grateful for the proliferation of talented independent breweries and distilleries in MN! - Jason P.

Our Allen Family.  The sharing and support. - Steve L.

Wife, sons, dogs, and all family and friends - Paul H.

I am grateful to be in a company surrounded by people that are so committed to our mission of creating magical, meaningful, and measurable work for clients using the latest in innovative technology. - Kristine A.

Chill company and coworkers. - Braxton E.

I’m grateful for my new job here! - Joe M.

Curiosity - Chris B.

I am grateful for those who strive to create powerful eLearning while at the same time recognizing that in order to excel at what we do, realistic timelines are key. - Annette K.

Both my sisters did an amazing job of taking care of my mom during the last year of her life. I’m grateful for their devotion. - Edmond M.

Friends - Cathy W.

We'll be adding to this list of things we're grateful for all month long. Stop back to see more Allenite thanks. We'd love to see what you're grateful for too. Tell us in the comments.