5 Reasons to Send a Birthday Card or Handwritten Letter

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions stated are genuine and my own.

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Did you send Christmas Cards this year? I used to always send them but have gradually decreased the number sent until I was no longer sending them at all. My friends and family have all expressed the same. It's kind of a pity actually, because I enjoyed displaying the cards I received during the holiday season.

That got me to thinking though, are there all that many people who send handwritten letters or cards out anymore? Technology makes it so easy to whip up a response and send it automatically that I think the answer is that is no. And what about birthday cards? The answer is probably the same. How can we get back to a more personal touch? 

Why not combine technology and the personal letter or card by using a service that will automatically send birthday cards?  As a mom of 4 and a grandmother of the same number, I have a lot of special days to remember, including birthdays, so I do like that idea. I like it a lot.

Here are five reasons why I think writing it is important to send out a note or card (whether it be a birthday or any other special event) with a heartfelt message or greeting.

1. Personal touch: Handwritten notes or a card with a well thought out message involve a level of personalization that is difficult to replicate with electronic communication. Taking the time to sit down and physically write out a note (or message that will be send in a card) shows effort and a thoughtfulness that is not present in a simple e-mail or text message.

2. Physical keepsake: A handwritten note or a specific message sent in a card can be kept and re-read multiple times, while an e-mail is easily deleted or lost in a crowded inbox. A physical card or letter can serve as a lasting reminder of the kind gesture of being appreciated, cared about or recognized.

3. Emotional impact: The physical act of writing or creating your own special message can have a deeper emotional impact on both the writer and the recipient. The personal nature of handwriting or designing a special message allows for a deeper connection and can make the message feel more genuine and heartfelt.

4. Formality: In some situations, a handwritten thank you note or physical card may be more appropriate due to the formality of the occasion. For example, either/or may be expected after a formal job interview or after being a guest in someone's home.

5. Tangible expression of gratitude: When we receive something physical, like a handwritten note or a card to put on display, it can feel more tangible and real. It can be a concrete expression of gratitude that can be held and re-read, rather than a fleeting message that is easily forgotten or deleted. In this way, a handwritten note can serve as a reminder of the kind gesture or favor that was done and can help to strengthen a relationship.

Overall, sending a birthday card in the mail, or a letter, can offer a level of personalization and thoughtfulness that can be difficult to produce when using something like e-mail. Yes, it may take a bit more time and effort, but the recipient is likely to appreciate the gesture. It is an easy way to stand out in a world where most people send messages instantly via technology. It is also a nice way to show appreciation, thankfulness or care.