Want to be a more admired and skillful leader? Say thank you. A lot.
Then say it some more.
Don’t be fake with it, doling out gratitude when it's not deserved. But be diligent in your saying of thanks - to team members, to customers, to vendors, to mentors, to family, to anyone who needs to hear it.
No leader rose to occasion alone. Therefore, someone is always due your gratitude. Leaders say thank you. Frequently.
The phrase “ungracious leader” is an oxymoron.
(For more on gratitude, read this editorial by David Brooks.)