I saw this wonderful article on the power of the handwritten note written by Mary Hepburn who is a writer for the North Platte Telegraph. She is great!
I echo her wonderful words and thoughts and it is a great reminder as we network, build relationships and deepen them, why a nice note in the mailbox can make someone’s day and the sender also feels great.
The other day was Mother’s Day—I always sent my Mom cards and letters throughout the year and especially on Mother’s Day. When she passed, I found them all saved in a special box.
I would give anything to be able to write her one today.
Here is what Mary Hepburn has to say:
When you check your mailbox, it’s the handwritten note that will get your attention. It may be in color, or even on special paper, yet whatever is sent your way, you can’t wait to open it.
All your other mail can wait. You’ve got something more important on your plate. It’s mail time.
Studies show that it’s good to receive handwritten notes, but it is also just as good to write them.
- Writing a note is a way to touch the people you care about. A thoughtful letter can be treasured for years.
- It can actually make you happier. Telling your friends how much you appreciate them helps you count your own blessings and notice some of the beauty in your life.
- It confirms the importance of a relationship. Taking the time to send a thoughtful note shows you cherish a relationship and want to invest in it.
- We write to remind people they’re special. Send your words of encouragement across the miles. Tell them what makes them special to you.
- It helps you pause long enough to say things that matter. You do it to give, not to receive. You write because there’s something you need to say. You want to make them know how you feel about them and that you are glad they are a part of your life.
- It creates a wonderful surprise. Remember when getting mail was fun? Put something fun in their mailbox and you just might make their day.
- It speaks to older friends and relatives in a medium they cherish. To some young people, mail can seem outdated or boring. For the older generation, it’s a tradition rich in sentiment. They still love opening a handwritten letter.
- It’s easier than you think. Handwritten cards can be some of the least expensive and most meaningful gifts you will ever give. With a few strokes of the pen, you have the power to encourage a loved one or a friend, a prospect or client.
Handwritten notes are a win-win situation. Everyone benefits. They will be happy when they receive your note and you will be happy knowing you made their day.
Thank you, Mary– a wonderful reminder and I just wrote my 3rd note for the day. ARN
This Nugget on Handwritten Notes gives me the goosebumps for so many reasons including my own lifelong and still strong love for receiving and sending cards, notes, and postcards. Also appreciate that my kids, ages 27 to 41, are note senders and so far, so are the grandkids, maybe with a little coercion.
I’ve successfully used the Handwritten Note, or the Handwritten Sticky Note on the formally typed letter to make a personal touch to a job application. Yes… You read that right. Applying online is the “thing to do” and for a role I’ve coveted, as recently as 2015, I send the “hard copy” in too, with the personalized sticky.
Thanks for this Nugget. I hope it Nudges and inspires!