This is my son. He’s almost 27. I can count on one hand how many times he’s wished me a happy fathers day or thanked me for helping him through life. That’s just not who he is. He’s quiet, introspective and doesn’t show a lot of emotions. But I don’t need thanks or kind wishes. I know he’s thankful and appreciative by how he carries himself, how he treats others, his work ethic and his purposeful approach to life.
Shifting gears to work. As a manager or leader, you don’t need thanks from your team and you shouldn’t seek it. It’s your job to build your team, make them confident and purposeful professionals, and help them belong and become who they were meant to be. Seeing your team succeed is all the thanks and acknowledgement you need.