Today when I checked my mail, I found four little envelopes. To my surprise and absolute delight, I discovered they were handwritten thank you notes. Not one, but four of them from three unrelated events and encounters.
These completely unexpected acts of kindness changed my day and my mind about several things. I couldn’t remember the last time I received a handwritten thank you note in the mail; and to receive four in one day was like hitting the Jimmy Fallon thank you note jackpot!
These individuals got personal in the nicest way. And how wonderful it was to feel appreciated. I sat at my desk feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. When I realized how long I had been sitting there with my head tilted sideways and a dreamy smile on my face, I decided to share the thoughts that had come to mind.
I paid attention to the emotions these little notes provoked in my mind. They made me feel a surge of optimism about myself and my business community. I also noted that the stress I was feeling about whatever business challenge I was facing at that moment suddenly felt manageable. I felt happy to have touched someone enough to generate this action. What a wonderful surprise!
It appears that in a time when it may be easier to send a text message or email to say thanks, this once common practice of sending a handwritten thank you note is back in vogue. And what a win/win for all. Even the act of sending a thank you note has benefits. Studies show that taking part in this trend also generates feelings of being sociable, happy people and it strengthens the bond between personal connections and business.
So, to attorneys Autumn Hancock and Kristina Feher who took the time to say thank you because they enjoyed hearing me speak at the SharpHeels Small Business Summit in Tampa, I again say thank you. To Bob Streater from The Florida Chamber of Commerce who thanked me for my hard work and professionalism, I also say thank you! And to the brilliant team at Key Person of Influence USA who each scribbled a note to say thank you for taking part in their CEO Social luncheon, I say thank you for reminding me that small gestures of kindness still count.
The next time you walk past the stationary isle, grab a box of thank you notes or personalize a blank set by adding your own style. When is a good time to send a thank you note? After a job interview to set yourself apart. A day or two after receiving a gift. After a trade-show, event or convention you attended to rise to the top of that pile of business cards your card is likely buried in on their desk.
Business is after all still an interaction of human beings. A handwritten note is a way to connect as human beings and you might be surprised how powerful a tool that can be, whatever business you happen to be pursuing. Make the effort to maintain this mutually gratifying act of appreciation. You’ll feel better for it and so will they.
Thank you! <3