
What does it mean when someone says, “I’m so glad you’re on”?
Nurses often say this to me. Sometimes it’s in response to increasing a patient’s pain medications, my calm demeanor during a crisis, or even when I say the hard truths out loud, like: “This person is going to die” or “We have to let them make their own poor choices.”
At first, I heard it as an indirect criticism of other physicians: “You’re better than the others. Thank the gods you’re here today.” But over time, I’ve come to see that interpretation as misguided. For one thing, it’s ego-driven. And more importantly, I believe we all bring unique strengths to the table, and people naturally notice and appreciate when those strengths align with the situation at hand. Chances are, other physicians hear similar comments when their particular strengths shine.
A Shift in Perspective
Now, I choose to hear “I’m so glad you’re on” as an expression of gratitude and connection. It’s a way of honoring me as a fellow human being. In my running group, we often say, “I’m glad you’re here,” and it carries a similar sentiment. It’s an acknowledgment that:
My life is better because you’re in it.
My day is brighter because I saw you.
Thank you for showing up—because your presence makes it a little easier for me to show up too.
Maybe when a colleague says, “I’m so glad you’re on,” they mean, “I enjoy working with you, and it’s my treat that we’re both here today.”
Build Stronger Teams Through Strength Spotting
What if we could make this even more meaningful? In my coaching programs, we practice a skill called “strength spotting.” It’s about noticing and naming the specific strengths others are using. While simple, it requires intention. Instead of general gratitude, we aim to articulate the exact quality or action we’re appreciating.
Here’s how to try it:
Notice the strength your colleague is using.
If you choose to express it, frame it as a “thank you” statement.
Here are some examples to replace “I’m so glad you’re on”:
“Thank you for being here today. Working with you makes my day fun.” (Strength spotted: zest, humor, or creativity.)
“Thank you for staying calm in that meeting. You held the room together.” (Strength spotted: self-regulation, leadership, or perspective.)
“Thank you for your courage in titrating this medication.”
“Thank you for being honest about the challenges we’re facing.”
“Thank you for sharing that this is hard for you too. Seeing our shared human messiness makes it easier for me to tolerate my imperfections.” (strength spotted: kindness, spirituality, or humility)

Imagine the Impact
Picture a workday where feedback is clear, thoughtful, and strengths-focused. Wouldn’t it be incredible to receive such direct reflections of your impact? There’d be no ambiguity, no need to second-guess what someone meant.
This kind of communication may feel strange at first. In our culture, we’re not accustomed to complimenting each other or expressing gratitude so earnestly. That’s okay—let it feel strange! The current norm is one of judgment and skepticism, where even a positive comment might be met with suspicion. But we can flip the script. We can create a culture of appreciation, starting with strength spotting. If we want to build stronger healthcare teams we have to start lifting each other up instead of tearing each other down.
Bonus Activity: Strength Spotting for Yourself
Here’s a fun exercise: What kind of strength-spotting feedback would you love to receive? Imagine someone could see and name your unique strengths with uncanny accuracy. What would you want them to say about you?
Write those statements down. Then, go live in a way that makes them true. When you catch yourself embodying those strengths, acknowledge them to yourself. Because you’re here, and we’re all so glad you are.
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