The Power of a Handwritten Note
Alex Pollock
November 18, 2020
Following a catastrophic flood recently in my town, caused by two major dam breaks, I've listened as friends described sifting through their homes, invaded by water and silt, looking for precious items to salvage. Among those items they tearfully clung to were photo albums, family jewelry and letters from loved ones.
This reminded me to never forget the power of a handwritten note. It conveys a personal touch, a caring touch. Our penmanship is like our fingerprints, uniquely ours. Take a moment to look at a letter from a loved one and feel memories bubble up from each stroke of their pen.
As we feel the effects of COVID isolation and rely on emails, social media and text messages to share our thoughts, it is rare to find a handwritten letter or card in our stack of mail.
Please consider occasionally throwing efficiency aside and sending a handwritten greeting to someone. This will emotionally touch them in ways that instant communication tools can only dream of.
It was common for me to see in the offices of my work colleagues framed personal letters from bosses whose words had touched them. These sentiments were cherished. When considering sending a handwritten note, please remember:
- They build relationships. We all need to feel valued. Timeliness equals thoughtfulness.
- They revive. They strengthen bonds. These words will be pondered over so choose them wisely and record them clearly.
- They distinguish. They show thoughtfulness and appreciation.
Topics:
Leadership & Careers
About the Author
Alex Pollock
Alex Pollock has been studying leadership effectiveness for more than 30 years. A former leader in environment, health and safety, and public affairs at The Dow Chemical Co., he learned that we all have leadership roles to play. He enjoys discussing new ideas and sharing practical ways we can all become better leaders.