It's not too late--to send holiday cards that is. I just bought my stack the other day. I'm sure some of you were hoping it was too late as cards can be quite a chore. It's not nearly as tedious if you liken sending the card to sending a smile to all those you know and love. Too cheesy? Okay then, how about taking the opportunity to remind them you're glad they're in your life. Still not buying it? Um, sending holiday cards makes you look good. There we go. Let's keep that in mind. In all seriousness, cards and letters are a very thoughtful extension of yourself. In the age of all things digital, a handwritten envelope with a considerate message inside is one of the best presents to unwrap.
• A Little Each Day: Just like finishing a term paper at 1 a.m. the day it's due or cramming for the bar exam (or any exam), you save yourself a great deal of stress by not waiting until the last minute. Reminder: it's not the last minute yet. I'm sending cards to 25 people, and each day I write out five cards. It's a great way to unwind. I know I'm writing something that will be enthusiastically received, and I enjoy the creative process of making each message unique. If you buy cards today and send them out over the next five days they will arrive before Christmas. If some arrive on the 26th or New Year's Day--who cares.
• Make Your Handwritten Mark: I'm single, and I'm sending out 25 cards. You might be married with eight children and sending out 150 cards. It's understandable if you don't have time to write long letters to each person. If you can, then do. It's a great gift! If you can't, then I suggest adding a short and sweet handwritten message at the bottom of each family photo card or holiday newsletter you send. Tell the person (or people) you hope the new job is going well or that you can't wait until the 50th birthday bash next August. Make it a specific comment regarding the receiver(s). They will feel extra appreciated.
• Remember When: Whether it's a quick comment you're writing or a lengthier missive, I find reminiscing to be a guaranteed receiver pleaser. You could mention something that happened earlier this year--I had a great time catching up with you and Tommy at the US Open--or years ago--I was thinking about our cross-country road trip the other day. How much fun was that?! It lets the person you're writing to know that thinking of them brings wonderful memories to mind.
• As for Me: It's fine to talk about yourself in a holiday card. Your friends and family want to hear what you've been up to. Something as simple and charming as, As for us, married life is fantastic! Or something truthful that people would want to know about such as, Stan is doing really well after the operation. Thank you for your prayers. This time of year is the ultimate mix of emotions--both good and bad. The one emotion that's supposed to rise above them all is hope. If you haven't had a stellar year then you don't have to pretend otherwise--It's been a challenging year, but we have our hopes set high for 2008.
• The Chosen Few: If you know you're never going to sit down and write out cards to everyone in your office or your distance relatives in Knoxville, then kudos to you for being honest with yourself. You might, however, consider sending a few cards to the few people who did make an impact on you this year. You can write to the security guard who has a big smile and hearty, "Good morning!" for you each day or your boss who gave you stock in the company before going public or your hairdresser who is always there to listen and offer sound advice. Since you're only writing to those who have moved you in one way or another, your message will come to you naturally and come off as especially genuine.
• Keep Some Extra Cards Handy: Some people will surprise you with a card or small gift, whether it be a quiet office mate or the seemingly grumpy old man from down the street. It's nice to have some extra cards around so you can return the gesture quickly. If you can't, it's not a problem--that's not why the card is given--but doing so only continues to spread the cheer. If you'd like to thank someone for a card they've given you it's fine to do so over e-mail or with a phone call. I've already had a few people thank me both ways for the cards I've sent out, and for those who don't thank me it's not a problem. Again, that's not why I sent the card.
• Finally: Dear everyone who has read up until this point,
Thank you for lending me your time. I am truly grateful. May the holidays find you healthy, happy, and ever hopeful. Also, may your New Year be filled with excitement, surprises, and all the passion required to see your dreams through. Anything is possible!
My very best,
Samara
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