Few things in life are more gratifying than a thank-you note.
Baby boomers will no doubt remember their mothers having them sit down and write your a thank you note for grandma — an art almost completely lost to the later generations.
But the fact is that saying thank you in any way at all is better than nothing. Use email or a text message if you prefer, but say thank you.
When you think of the time you spend buying gifts for holidays and special days, it shouldn't surprise you that someone has invested the same amount of time and money buying something for you. It's likely that your old aunt or grandma has spent precious resources for you, hoping you would like the gesture. That should be acknowledged.
A thank-you note doesn't have to be exceptionally clever, colorful, or elaborate. In fact, the note should not draw attention to you, but to the gift and the thought behind the gift.
Here are some tips:
Thank-you notes don't have to be long, just personal.
The best thank-you notes mention the gift: Thank you for the shirt!
They should make note of your relationship: I love you, Grandma!
They should mention the event. Even if you send a thank-you by email, the recipient might print it out or keep it as a remembrance. Be sure to leave no doubt about the occasion: Thank you for the shirt, grandma. What a fun Christmas we had, and it was great seeing you at mom's house.
If you do want to make it more elaborate, it is easy these days to include a photo in an email or text. Maybe take a photo of yourself wearing the shirt.
The key idea, though, is to let the other person know you are grateful for their thoughtfulness. A little gratitude goes a long way!
