Uncomplicate your thank you notes

One of the important habits and skills my mom taught us growing up was the necessity of writing thank you notes. While I HATED having to write them right after opening Christmas presents, it is a practice that has served me well my entire life. It can be short and sweet but is a perfect way of letting the giver know it was received and appreciated.

Gratitude is essential for a happy life but expressing it does not come naturally. Just ask any parent how many times they've said the phrases "say thank you" and "say please" to just one of their kids.

Writing thank you notes is not limited solely to gift-giving occasions. They can be sent at any time on any day you want to express gratitude. Be prepared with actual stationery and stamps so that you're equipped when the time arises. Nobody wants to keep giving gifts to someone who doesn't acknowledge them.

You need a system for organizing your thank you notes! Here are my tips for organizing stationery and making the process so much easier and #uncomplicated.

• Check your drawers and cabinets to see what thank you notes you already have. I recommend storing them together so you don’t over-buy and can find them when you need them. 

• Make sure they are clean and flat, not bent or crushed.

• Do you have the right envelopes for the stationery? 

• Holiday gifts do not require a holiday-themed thank you note. Fold-over notes or note cards are perfect.

• If you need more, now is a good time to order or purchase them from your favorite stationery. I have found some cute ones at Home Goods and on Etsy.

• Not having stationery will be a barrier to writing and sending them. If you have cards that you really like, you'll be more inclined to get them written and sent.

• Did you know that you can order stamps from the post office? Yes, you have to pay for postage but you get a really good selection and don't have to stand in line.