Writing thank you notes? If you’re like me, you probably have a drawer full of thank-you notes that you’ve been meaning to write. And if you’re like me, those notes are still sitting there—uncompleted and unsent. But they don’t have to be! Writing a thank-you note doesn’t take much time or energy, and it can be just as meaningful as the gift itself.
Even better: There are many ways to make your note stand out from the crowd and surprise both the giver and yourself in the process! Here are seven ideas that I hope will inspire your next handwritten thank-you card:
Writing thank you notes in your own handwriting
Handwritten notes are more personal.
- Handwriting your note in your own hand shows that you put thought into the note and took the time to write it out.
- Plus, it is more likely when you handwrite a thank you, you make sure that the giver’s name is spelled correctly, which is something that technology often fails at.
- A handwritten note has a higher chance of being kept because it is much more personal than a text message or social media post, so quickly forgotten.
Include a picture of you using the gift
- Take a picture of yourself using their gift. Your gratitude will come through loud and clear when you send a photo of yourself enjoying the present, whether that’s using it for its intended purpose or just showing it off in your home.
- Add a written message with the photo. Include some kind words thanking the giver for their thoughtful gift.
Add a story or anecdote about the gift
If you are the recipient of a gift, it is important to let the giver know how much you appreciate their generosity by writing thank you notes. You could write a short story or anecdote about how and why you used the gift. This shows that you value their thoughtfulness and extend the happiness they felt when giving it.
A great way to do this is by telling a funny story about how and why you used the gift. While some people feel uncomfortable about sharing too many details about themselves with others, such stories show that the giver was right on target with their choice and make them feel good knowing that you appreciate what they did for you (and what better way than through laughter?).
Add a touch of your personality
Adding a personal touch when writing thank you notes can help the giver feel special and appreciated.
For example, if you receive a gift card to a coffee shop, add a picture of yourself smiling with your favorite coffee in your hand or by describing the coffee with as many descriptive words as you can think of and have them guess which kind you go.
You can also make something similar to the gift and send it back as an additional thank-you note. This shows how much thought you put into your appreciation! A handwritten note is often more meaningful than an email or text message because it provides more details about yourself and what you think of the gift, as well as whether or not you’re going to use it!
When you’re at a loss for words, keep it short and sweet
The most important thing to remember if you are at a loss for words is to keep it short and sweet. If you don’t know what to say in the greeting card, write something super simple like: “Thank you so much for the gift, because your remembering me is so special.”
It doesn’t have to be an elaborate usage of flowery language or a paragraph long. A little appreciation goes a long way!
A sincere thank-you note will make the gift giver feel cherished and appreciated. Just remember not to sound like a robot when writing it—but that’s really hard if you are genuinely grateful for them sending you something in the first place!
If the gift is money, let them know what you plan on spending it on
If the gift is money, let them know when writing thank you notes what you plan on spending it on. You can use the money to pay for something you need or want: a new pair of shoes, that class trip your child wanted to go on for their birthday, or even just help with groceries. Or let them know if you added it to your savings account for some need coming up in the future (a new refrigerator, a family trip, etc.)
If you’re feeling generous and have more than enough money in your account then consider donating part of it to a worthy cause. They may be even happier knowing that their generosity had helped someone else in need.
Writing thank you notes can be just as meaningful as the gift itself
Those who have received written thank you notes will tell you that they’re often more memorable than the gift they gave. Especially around Christmas when so many gifts are given. Plus, December 26 is the National Thank You Note Day.
Writing Thank You Notes Conclusion
You should never underestimate the power of mailing a handwritten thank-you note. It’s an opportunity to showcase your gratitude and show the giver that you really care about their gift. Not only does it make them feel good about what they’ve done, but it also lets them know how much it means to you!
