GON Reader Question from
Erica, Long Beach, CA
Maria,
I'm a long-time subscriber of your newsletter. I just love it.
I’ve been wondering, are thank you notes
still relevant? It seems like everyone’s so busy these days, and, honestly, when I get one, I often feel like the person is just going through the motions.
My own time is so limited, and I’m not sure if people really care about these notes anymore.
What do you think?
--
Erica
Maria's Response
Hi Erica,
Thank you for being a loyal reader. I appreciate you!
You’re not alone in feeling this way. Traditional thank you notes can sometimes feel like a formality rather than something meaningful.
But here’s the thing...
a sincere thank you is always relevant.
When done thoughtfully, a thank you note becomes more than just a “to do.” It's a small but powerful way to nurture relationships and show someone that their kindness or thoughtfulness truly mattered.
Thank you notes don’t
have to take a lot of time to feel genuine.
Here are seven creative, meaningful, and budget-friendly ways to show your appreciation without just “going through the motions”:
1. Send 20 Tiny Thank-You Notes for Daily Openings
This one has a wow factor! Write 20 short notes, each folded up with a simple instruction: “Open one a
day.” On each note, share something you love or admire about them.
You could say “You have the best sense of humor” or something more specific like “I’m so grateful for how you always make time for me.”
It’s a daily reminder of gratitude that lasts beyond a single card.
2. Leave a Quick, But Heartfelt, Handwritten Note
A few lines written on a cute thank you card show that you took the time to pause and think of them specifically. It’s about sincerity, not length.
If they gave you a gift, mention
the gift and how you'll be using it. For instance...
“Thank you so much for the beautiful throw blanket. I can’t wait to cozy up with it on chilly evenings—it’s perfect for my reading nook!”
3. Record a Voice Message
Send a short voice message. Your voice adds warmth, and they’ll be able to feel your appreciation without you
needing to write one word.
4. Send a Digital Card
Choose a free e-card that
suits their style or personality and add a personal message. It’s a modern take on the classic thank you, quick to create, and always nice to receive.
5. Text a Picture with a Message
Sometimes, a quick thank you doesn’t even need a card. Snap a picture of something that reminds you of them, or a memory you shared, or you holding the gift they sent, and add a few words of thanks.
6. Post a Social Media Shoutout
If they’re active on social media, tag them in a quick thank you post or story. It’s public, personal, and lets them (and others) know how much they mean to you. Just keep it short and
sweet to focus on the gratitude.
Every thank you, big or small, shows people they matter to you—and that’s always worth a few moments of our time. Plus, taking that time for gratitude can brighten both of your days.
