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The Quiet Power of a Handwritten Note
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If you’re deep in last minute gift guides 2 days out, and still have no idea what to buy for Christmas, don’t panic. Grab a pen, pick out a spirited holiday card, and stick with me. This guide is here to help you write a thoughtful card this holiday season, one that people actually remember.
I was inspired to write this after handwriting my own Christmas cards this year, a process that took much longer than anticipated. A labor of love, writing by hand forced me to slow down and be intentional about the words I chose and the feelings I wanted to fit in a 4 x 6 card.
I’ve always loved both giving and receiving handwritten cards (I’ve kept every single one since I was 16!). There’s something so intimate about reading someone’s words in their own handwriting. The note is a snapshot of who that person is to you at that time in your life, and the memories that come with that signature. Cards have always shown me that what people remember most isn’t what you spent, but the time and intention you left behind.
The Hidden Power of a Handwritten Note
Humans have always known the power of ink on paper. History teaches us letters have carried diplomacy, love, and secret deals. In the 19th century, etiquette manuals insisted that sending a note of thanks, congratulations, or condolences signaled refinement and care. Even in modern times, think presidential thank-you letters, literary correspondence, or that card tucked inside a care package. Handwritten codes aren’t just niceties but rather an act that allows us to express not just what we want to say, but how we mean it. Tailoring a message to someone requires attention because it asks you to be specific.
Here are a few moments in history of hand written notes. (You may recognize a few of these names!)
Why Even Write a Card?
There’s no right or wrong way to write one. A card can stand alone, accompany a small gift (like a gift card), or be the gift itself. What makes it powerful as a gift is the intention behind the words.
Here’s why:
- Each one is unique. No two notes are ever the same. Handwriting carries individuality in a way digital cannot.
- It offers attention without demanding it. You provide space for the recipient to read a note on their own time without the demand of instant correspondence.
- It’s private. No hacks, no accidental forwarding and cannot be shared accidentally.
- It’s intimate. Your voice and your tone live in the handwriting itself.
- It can’t be automated. A handwritten note is one of the few gestures that AI can’t meaningfully replicate.
How to Express Yourself this Holiday Season
1. Start with Gratitude
- Focus on the relationship or shared experiences from the past year.
- Examples:
- “I’m so grateful for having you in my life this year…”
- “Thank you for all the laughs, support, and adventures we shared in 2025…”
- “Your friendship has been such a gift this year, and I wanted to let you know…”
2. Begin with a Memory
- Anchor the note in specific moments
- Examples:
- “I’ll never forget the time we _______. Unclear how we survived but I’m happy we got to experience that together!”
- “[funny/fond memory]? That moment made my year…”
- “One highlight of this year was definitely [shared experience]…”
- “Remember that time you _______? I still laugh every time I think about it…”
3. Open with Warm Wishes
- Holiday-focused openings that are short & cheerful!
- Examples:
- “Wishing you warmth, laughter, and peace this holiday season…”
- “May your holidays be full of joy and your new year full of adventure…”
- “Sending love and good cheer to you and yours this season…”
4. Lead with Appreciation for the Recipient
- Put the focus on them
- Examples:
- “I’ve been thinking about how much your support meant to me this year…”
- “Your kindness and humor have made all the difference this year…”
- “I’m endlessly grateful for your patience, your jokes, and your weirdly specific advice…”
Handwritten notes prove that slowing down still matters and because people tend to opt to digital cards and text messages, taking the time to put pen to paper is more than thoughtful, it’s an intentional act that sticks with people far longer than the gifts themselves. Agree / disagree? Leave a comment!
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