Handwritten notes… a lost art?

In my last post I talked about the importance of “pouring yourself” into the life of our leadership team. Today, I want to share a tip on one way to do that.

In a day of emails, texts, Facebook, and Twitter… it has occurred to me that HAND WRITTEN NOTES have become a lost art… and one that impresses those who receive that gift. A simple note, that cost very little… speaks volumes to those we need to encourage and appreciate!

Below is an excerpt from an article written by Pam Keith. Pam shares some thoughts on why you need to reconsider the pen and paper and she shares some practical “ways” to encourage those who we minister with:

Why Go to All the Trouble?
You’ve seen the cute ideas of candy bars with a note attached or a pack of gum with a cute saying. Those are great ideas for the masses. Keep using them. But don’t let those ideas replace the personal, handwritten note.

Why the Bother? 
Did you know that there are people out there who can analyze your handwriting and tell you about your personality? Your style of handwriting is very distinguishable. Your personality shows up in your handwriting. Whether or not you believe those analyses are true, know that handwritten notes make a difference. A personal note demonstrates how much you care about your leaders. Personal notes say “I noticed and I am taking time to tell you.” A personal note is a personal touch.
   
Encouragement Is an Investment
Encouragement is an investment in the future of the ministry. If you want to keep your leaders then remember to encourage them.

You may face the same challenges that so many leaders do, not enough time!. How can you possibly take time to write personal notes? Here are some suggestions to help you accomplish personal and meaningful messages to workers.

1. Spread the encouragement. Print a list of your workers. Each time you send a note, highlight that name. Keep in mind that you want to focus on a different classroom or worker the each week. You may want to have a planned sequence beginning with sixth grade and going down, or vice-versa.
2. Keep your eyes and ears open. Each week observe volunteers in action. Make mental notes of what you see happening as workers teach and interact with children and preschoolers.
3. Place a small notebook and pen in your pocket. If you’re like me, you won’t remember what you saw. When you walk away from the situation, take a moment to jot down a note to yourself. Of course, you may choose to use your cell phone or other electronic device!
4. Make writing notes a priority. Schedule into your week a time for writing notes. Make an appointment with yourself. Do not let other things take the place of this appointment.
5. Write a personalized note to the person. Make sure your note is special by writing a note that is worker specific. Don’t allow this endeavor to become generic. As you write, pray for that worker and class.
6. Mega-church, help? If you are in a mega-church, you may need help. Encourage your associates or your division directors to become part of the process. Divide and conquer.

Bottom Line: I wish I had the ability to write each of you a “personal” note… but I don’t even know who you “all” are, so here goes my electronic attempt:  “Thank you for all you do… the countless hours, the hard, hard work… the unknown tears, and the enormous impact you make for His Kingdom through His kids!”

Thanks to Pam Keith for contributing to this post.