Gratitude as a Leadership Practice: Coach Dora’s Insights
Nov 11, 2025
Gratitude isn't passive appreciation—it's an active leadership practice that creates alignment, peace, and power. This month, we're inviting you to shift from urgency to intention by discovering what becomes possible when you lead from gratitude. Inside, you’ll find transformative reflection questions from a recent wellness retreat in Hawaii, a celebration of legacy and storytelling, and practical AI-powered resources designed to elevate your leadership journey. Whether you're seeking clarity, connection, or courage, these insights will help you lead more boldly while honoring what truly sustains you.
Wellness is Not a Reward — It's a Foundation
In a culture that glorifies hustle, we've been conditioned to see wellness as something we earn. The truth: wellness isn't a reward for hard work — it's the foundation that makes meaningful work possible. Let's explore what it means to build sustainable leadership rooted in gratitude, connection, and renewal.
In-Depth: Reflections from Hawaii
The Spirit of Aloha in Leadership
Aloha isn't just a greeting — it's a way of being that means compassion, presence, and breath. As the Hawaiian saying goes: "Ua ola loko i ke aloha" — Love gives life within. This philosophy reminds us that we cannot lead authentically from an empty cup.
Recently, I had the joy of joining the Latinas Rising Up in HR community for a Wellness Leadership Retreat in Hawaii. Surrounded by brilliant women, ocean air, and deep conversation, I was reminded that leadership isn't just about the next milestone — it's about being present for the people and moments that shape us.
This experience taught me that when I pause to acknowledge what nourishes me — community, rest, growth, connection — I realize these aren't extras. They’re essentials that sustain my spirit, sharpen my mind, and fuel my purpose. 🌿
Reflection Questions for You:
- What would change if you treated your wellness as non-negotiable?
- What if rest, joy, and connection weren't luxuries you postpone, but necessities you protect with the same intentionality as breathing?
- What are you grateful for today?
- How will you honor your wellness with the spirit of Aloha this week?
Remember: We are worthy of care — not because of what we produce, but because of who we are.
Actionable Leadership Tips
This Month, Try This:
- Create a Gratitude Leadership Practice: Start or end each workday by naming three things you're grateful for in your leadership journey.
- Treat Wellness as Non-Negotiable: Block time for rest, connection, or joy on your calendar with the same priority as important meetings.
- Practice Aloha: Approach one challenging situation this week with compassion, presence, and breath.
- Honor Your Story: Write down one lesson from someone who came before you and consider how you're carrying it forward.
- Invest in Your Development: Check out my AI leadership tools and implement one strategy this week.
Resources & Reading
AI Leadership Tools I have gathered my top AI resources designed to help you lead more confidently and efficiently:
- Top 5 AI Interview Prompts
- AI Communication Hacks for Leaders
- GPT Career Relaunch Navigator
Download all AI tools Here!
Podcast: Building Leadership Community All episodes from Seasons 1 & 2 are now available, covering topics like authenticity, inclusion, and courageous & compassionate leadership.
Watch and Listen to the podast→
Reading Recommendation: Amor y Disamor de la Diáspora by Zenaida Méndez — A powerful memoir on justice, identity, and belonging (English version coming soon!)
Honoring Your Legacy and Those Who Came Before
Gratitude is not just a feeling — it's an act of remembering, honoring, and carrying forward the love and lessons of those who shaped us.
This October, I co-hosted the launch of my mother Zenaida Méndez's memoir. Watching her lifelong commitment to justice and storytelling come to life on the page filled me with immense gratitude. Her words remind me that gratitude is an act of remembering and honoring those who came before us. Here's to the women who write their truth — and to the daughters who continue their legacy.
News & Updates
New Collection: Coach Dora Merch Just in time for the holidays, the Coach Dora Merch Shop is now available. This collection is a celebration of courage, confidence, and purpose. From empowering quote tees to cozy leadership hoodies, every piece was designed to remind you to lead boldly and live intentionally.
Shop the Collection!
Q1 2026: Speaking, Panels, and VIP Strategy Sessions
I am now booking for Q1 2026. Bring authentic, high-energy leadership conversations to your next event covering: AI Fluency & Leadership, Inclusion & Belonging, and Well-Being at Work..
Request Speaking or VIP Strategy Info →
Feedback = Fuel
We Want Your Feedback! Your voice shapes our growth. If you've attended a workshop, joined a cohort, or simply want to share your thoughts — we'd love to hear from you.
Stay Connected & Keep Growing
🎙️ Building Leadership Community — new podcast episodes every Friday
📰 Beyond Heritage Months — weekly Substack reflections on People and Culture
🌐 Website: www.CoachDoraMendez.com
📲 Connect with me @CoachDorarM LinkedIn & Youtube
Linktree: CoachDoraM | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
Final Thought
"Gratitude isn't just a feeling — it's a leadership practice. It reminds us to see the good, celebrate the progress, and honor the people who walk beside us."
This November, let gratitude guide your leadership — and joy fuel your journey.
With Gratitude,
Coach Dora
