Ready, Set, Write: Creating a Note-Writing Habit for the New Year
Remember this: it's all about Connection!
If you’d prefer to listen instead of read this post:
Want to touch more lives this year with a heartspoken note or letter?
This may be on your list of New Year’s resolutions, but there are two things you need first if you’re going to make it stick:
Understand WHY you want to do this.
Have a PLAN for getting it done.
The WHY is never about you…it’s always about them and the quality of the connection you’re trying to forge with them. Personal notes connect, comfort, encourage, and inspire. Professional notes can do the same, but the reason for strengthening those connections may be more motivated by business goals than by friendship or familial relationships.
When the inevitable obstacles arise to writing more notes (e.g., not enough time, fear of saying the wrong thing), return to your WHY. Stop worrying about what to say and focus on how you want to make them feel.
The PLAN can be unique to you, but I hope this Heartspoken Note-Writing Checklist and jump-start prompts will help and give you a good running start. Like so many things, the more you do it, the easier it becomes and the more likely you’ll keep doing it.
Your Heartspoken Note-Writing Checklist and Jump-start Prompts
Checklist for 2025 Note-Writing Success:
Set up your writing space with all your supplies: stationery, pens, stamps, and address book. When it’s convenient, you’re more likely to do it.
List 3 people to write to this month. Keep a running list by adding names as the year progresses.
Choose a note-writing routine (e.g., one note every Sunday evening or during your lunch break). Start slowly and pick up speed as the year progresses and your habit kicks in.
Pick at least one professional and one personal recipient each week for a quick, meaningful note.
Track your notes by creating a Correspondence Record in a journal or planner to stay motivated and see your connections grow.
Personal Note-Writing Prompt:
Think of one person who has made a difference in your life recently—big or small. Write them a quick note expressing your gratitude or sharing how they impacted you.
Professional Note-Writing Prompt:
Identify one colleague, client, or team member who deserves recognition. Write them a brief, thoughtful note acknowledging their effort or success.
Bonus Tip:
Write your first note right now. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just heartspoken.
Coming up…
Next week, we’ll talk about Etiquette best practices related to note writing and what’s changed in the last 50 years. Don’t miss it — if you’re not already subscribed, click this button now.
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Have a great week, and always remember: whether written or spoken,
words from the heart will never fail you!
Your note writing checklist is a wonderful resource. You’ve taught me that keeping it simple and making it about the other person are key to #Heartspoken connections. Thank you, Elizabeth.
Well, you nailed it. And there's a kind of universal application here, too.