National Boss's Day: A Holiday That Started in Illinois

You may know that today is National Boss's Day (and if you don't, consider this your head's up before you go into the office). But you may not know the day honoring your head honcho actually started right here in Illinois.

According to the website National Day Calendar, "National Boss's Day," which falls on Wednesday, Oct. 16, "recognizes the hardworking boss overseeing the workplace."

"Employees across the United States show appreciation and thankfulness to their bosses," the site said, of the holiday. "They remember their boss's kindness and fairness throughout the year, too."

The site goes on to say that when Oct. 16 falls on a weekend, its typical to celebrate on the "closest working day."

The Origin of Boss's Day

The holiday's origin story begins in 1958 in suburban Deerfield, the site said, where Patria Bays Haroski worked as a secretary for Illinois-based State Farm Insurance Company. Haroski registered "National Boss's Day" with the United States Chamber of Commerce to be celebrated Oct. 16. Her inspiration for the holiday came from her father, who was also her employer at the time. She chose October 16th as it was his birthday.

In 1962, Illinois' then Governor Otto Kerner backed the registration and officially proclaimed 'Boss's Day.' By 1979, Hallmark Cards introduced Boss's Day cards to their inventory, the site said.

How to Celebrate Boss's Day

Every year on October 16, Boss’s Day offers a chance to recognize and appreciate the hard work, guidance, and dedication of leaders who inspire and support their teams. From its origins in 1958 to heartfelt messages of gratitude, explore how to celebrate the leaders who make a difference in the workplace with thoughtful messages and gestures of appreciation.

Boss’s Day Messages and Greetings

The day is a time for employees to show their appreciation for their bosses, whether it's through a handwritten note, a small gift, or simply expressing gratitude for their leadership. Here are some heartfelt wishes and messages to consider:

Wishing you a happy Boss’s Day! You’re incredible at everything you do, including the job we all share.
Your ability to listen without judgment creates a safe space for open and regular communication. I truly appreciate your leadership.
You’ve taught me an important lesson: always put in more effort than anyone else to encourage others to work hard. Thank you for your support and advice.
Happy Boss’s Day to the most likeable boss! We are thrilled to have you as our mentor!
I’m grateful to have a boss like you who treats employees like family. Thank you for always being there when I need guidance. Happy Boss’s Day!
Only the best leaders master the art of managing people. In everything you do, you inspire us. Cheers to you, boss!
It’s called Boss’s Day, but that doesn’t capture it all—I think of you as a coach and a leader. Thank you for always listening and acting when you can.
Thank you for always making time to listen to my feedback and for genuinely caring by following up on my suggestions.
Leaders who truly listen are rare—thank you for being one of them.
Thank you for embodying our core values every day with such passion and enthusiasm. Your energy is contagious and inspires our team to do our best.
You consistently lead by example, setting high standards that inspire us. Thank you!
You’re more than a boss—you challenge us to think bigger, take smart risks, and reach our potential. We appreciate everything you do.
One day isn’t enough to recognize all the work you do year-round. Thank you for listening, helping us meet our goals, and valuing our efforts even when things don’t go as planned.
I hope every company has a boss like you—you know when to have fun and when to focus on work.
The way you manage everything at work inspires me. Keep guiding others to be like you. Happy Boss’s Day!
On this special Boss’s Day, sending warm wishes and love. May your days be filled with happiness and joy.
We respect and love you, but we’re also a bit scared of you—in a good way! Happy Boss’s Day!
To simply call you a boss doesn’t do justice to the role you play. You’re a leader, mentor, and source of encouragement. Happy Boss’s Day to one of the best!
Happy Boss’s Day! May you continue climbing the ladder of success every day.
To my mentor, guide, and boss, Happy Boss’s Day! You’re truly unmatched.

Boss Day Wishes and WhatsApp Status

In today's digital age, expressing gratitude on social media is becoming increasingly common. Here are some messages for a more casual and modern celebration:

To the boss who’s always there when I need assistance, thank you for your support. Happy Boss’s Day!
Happy Boss’s Day! You embody our company’s mission and vision, always going the extra mile.
Happy Boss’s Day to the one who handles all responsibilities smoothly!
Even when the world is rushing, you take time to mentor, encourage, and inspire us. We’re lucky to work with you. Happy Boss’s Day!
Happy Boss’s Day! You make the office a better place with your thoughtful and kind leadership.
Greatness comes from great leaders, and we’re so fortunate to have you. We’re grateful to learn so much from you, and it will help us in the future. Happy Boss’s Day!
On this Boss’s Day, I pray you achieve all you deserve. Happy Boss’s Day 2024!
Happy Boss’s Day to the boss who knows how to have fun while working under pressure! You’re always full of enthusiasm and joy.
Happy Boss’s Day to someone I would talk to even if you didn’t sign my paychecks.
Thanks for answering all my endless questions—you’re better than Google!
We can sometimes be a tough team, but you make managing us look easy! Thanks for sticking with us—Happy Boss’s Day!
Many people complain about work, but not me. I know how fortunate I am to have a thoughtful, caring leader like you. Thank you!
Happy Boss’s Day! Your leadership inspires us to strive for excellence every day. We’re so grateful for your guidance.
Working under your leadership has been rewarding. Your dedication and understanding make the workplace feel like a second home. Happy Boss’s Day!
You lead with both vision and empathy. It’s inspiring to work for someone who cares about the team and the mission. Happy Boss’s Day!
You’re the best boss, hands down! You’ve raised the bar for bosses everywhere.
Happy Boss’s Day! Your constant encouragement, guidance, and support have made a difference in my career, and I’m grateful to be part of your team.
Thank you for being an exceptional leader. Your passion is contagious, pushing us to be our best. Happy Boss’s Day!
Wishing you a wonderful Boss’s Day! Your support means the world to us.
Happy Boss’s Day! Thanks for always steering the ship, even when we’re off course.

Quotes on Leadership

To further understand the essence of leadership, consider these timeless quotes:

“A good leader takes a little more than their share of the blame, and a little less than their share of the credit.” – Arnold H. Glasow
“The art of leadership is saying no, not yes. It is very easy to say yes.” – Tony Blair
“Leaders don’t force people to follow—they invite them on a journey.” – Charles S. Lauer
“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. They are the one that gets people to do the greatest things.” – Ronald Reagan
“Leadership is unlocking people’s potential to become better.” – Bill Bradley
“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.” – Douglas MacArthur
“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” – Warren Bennis
“Good leaders inspire people to believe in the leader; great leaders inspire people to believe in themselves.” – John Quincy Adams
“A boss says, ‘Go!’ A leader says, ‘Let’s go!'” – E. M. Kelly
“The role of a leader is not to have all the answers, but to create an environment where great ideas can thrive.” – Simon Sinek

Whether it's through a small gesture, a heartfelt message, or a simple "thank you," remember that Boss's Day offers a special occasion to show appreciation for the leaders who contribute to a positive and successful work environment.