Take the Time to Hand Write a Thank You NoteThe holidays are behind us by a few weeks now. If you are like me, you may be late in showing gratitude by writing a thank you to the people who demonstrated their kindness in the form of a gift. Take the time to write a note of thanks (by “write,” I mean use a pen or pencil and a piece of paper).

Don’t type it. Don’t email it. Don’t call it in.

Sit down, and write it (if able). Think about it, and then get a pen, a piece of paper, and write it. Put it in an envelope, get a stamp, and send it. Old fashioned? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely!

In our electronic age, we need to preserve the art of gratitude, in a small way – in the form of a handwritten thank you note. It doesn’t need to be complex or long, just meaningful and heartfelt.

A few tips:

  • Include a nice, personal salutation
  • Identify what the gift was
  • Highlight why it was a great gift and why you appreciate it
  • Wish them well in the months and year ahead
  • Reiterate your appreciation for the gift
  • Sign it appropriately
  • Optional: Write a short paragraph about what is happening in your life; share a little…

I know this is straightforward, but it is more than just one line. Take a moment in time to be thankful to others.

Simple actions show great gratitude and strengthen the bonds in your relationships. Keep appreciation alive with a written note of thanks.

My objective this week is to write all of my thank you notes and put them in the mail.