The Power of a Handwritten Note
When was the last time you received a card or note with a considerate handwritten message? Think about how you felt and I’d venture to say, you probably read it more than once, maybe even showing it to someone else.
A study at the University of Zurich’s Computational Emotion Neuroscience lab scanned the brains of participants with MRI machines and determined that when we receive a compliment, praise or encouragement we get a “mini-high.” It is believed that dopamine, the neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, increases in the process.
This experience is no different when the admiration is handwritten and the best praise, seams to leave us wanting more as a result.
But, there’s another major benefit of receiving this small gift. It is the inspiration to pen a card, ourselves, much like the feelings we get when we receive or witness random acts of kindness.
I used to think perfect penmanship mattered. It really doesn’t. As long as your words, no matter how poorly written, can be deciphered, it’s your heartfelt message that counts.
Simply put, your pen-written words have the power to speak volumes about your thoughtfulness and gratitude.
Your pen is mightier than ever.
