Why handwritten notes make the best gifts

Haven’t seen someone in a while because of lockdown?

Now that we know that Christmas isn’t going to be the same, sending out Christmas cards with “Happy Christmas” wishes may be a bit difficult.

Would you like to cheer someone up? Are you missing someone and want to let them know? Why not write them little note to tell them you miss them or thank them for their friendship, to bring that special person’s spirits up and to make their day, week or year.

Although we can keep in touch through text messages, emails and video calls, there’s something magical about getting a handwritten note. The thrill of opening an envelope or maybe it’s just knowing someone took the time to sit down and put pen to paper. Either way, it’s a good feeling to send and/or receive, especially at this time of the year.

An interesting article why The win-win benefits of handwritten notes tend to be underestimated.

When you’re the one doing the writing; here are some fun prints and my five top tips;

1. Make it fit

Your card can be small or large; your note needs only be a few sentences, so make sure it is at least big enough to fit those.

2. What to write?

After greeting the person by name (something that often falls by the wayside in texts and emails), a first sentence should clearly express why you’re writing.

Top tip Courtesy of Sigmund Freud, who said, “I consider it a good rule for letter-writing to leave unmentioned what the recipient already knows, and instead tell him something new.”

The second and third sentences could go deeper with a specific personal touch, then wrap up by mentioning the future — perhaps the possibility of following up or making plans.

3. Start with a draft.

Even if you’re jotting down a short message or a longer one, it’s useful to get your initial thoughts down in a draft— that way you don’t risk wasting your precious stationery.

Write your draft in the same voice you’d relay your message face-to-face, the whole point of sending a handwritten note is to make the reader feel special.

4. Prepare the envelope for mailing.

Address the envelope and stick a stamp on it; you will also want to write your return address on the envelope. Slide the card into the envelope and seal it

5. Then, post it!

Make it an one-off every now and then, make a special impact and catch people by surprise — be different from the rest and stand out. Let’s bring back the art of handwritten notes and rise against soulless text messages, keyboards and screens.