When Thanks Becomes the Gift

• The gratitude we receive from others can fuel our own growth

• True fulfillment comes from witnessing transformation in others

• Seva—selfless service—creates a reciprocal cycle where giving and receiving become one

Mirror Mantra

This Thanksgiving week, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude—not just for what I have, but for what I've been privileged to witness.

Since launching The Mirror Effect, I've received messages that have genuinely filled my cup. A woman who asked for a raise the day after attending a book event. A father created a book club with his three daughters, using the workbook and journal to explore authentic leadership together. Women who've written to say they cried through certain sections because they finally had language for experiences they thought were theirs alone.

Each story is precious. Each one reminds me why this work matters.

In my spiritual practice, there's a concept called seva. It's a Sanskrit word meaning service performed without expectation of reward or recognition. What I've learned through this journey is something my swami and guru taught me long ago: when we contribute to others' growth, we receive the greatest gift of all—our own transformation.

The messages, the tears, the breakthroughs, they aren't just feedback. They're fuel. They remind me that authentic leadership isn't performed in isolation. It's a reciprocal exchange where giving and receiving become beautifully intertwined.

This work, combined with my mission in biotech to bring forward innovative medicine, represents the fullness of what it means to serve. And the gratitude I feel—for every person who has shared their story, taken a risk, or found their voice—is truly the gift that keeps giving (read more about the reciprocal nature of gratitude here.)

Share your gratitude with someone who transformed you.

Think of someone whose words, actions, or presence changed your trajectory. Maybe they gave you language for something you'd been experiencing. Perhaps they modeled possibility when you couldn't see it for yourself. Or they simply witnessed you at a crucial moment.

Write them a message. Be specific about the impact they had. Tell them how their contribution continues to ripple through your life.

When we complete the gratitude cycle by expressing it, we give others the same fuel for service that we receive. We become mirrors reflecting back the power of their contribution.

What’s next?

As we move into the holiday season, I'm reflecting on the profound privilege of this work—of creating spaces where leaders, particularly those from underrepresented communities in biotech and beyond, can find their authentic voice and power.

Thank you for being part of this community. Your presence here, your engagement, your willingness to grow—it all matters more than you know.

With deep gratitude,
Sheila

Have you seen my TEDx talk "Focus on the Mirror, Not the Glass Ceiling"? In it, I explore how finding the right mirrors—people who reflect our potential and validate our experiences—can transform our leadership journey. I'd be honored if you'd watch and share it with others who might benefit from this message.