From: myfirstmillionpod
Jesse Itzler, a successful entrepreneur and ultramarathoner, emphasizes the profound impact of handwritten thank-you notes as a core practice for personal and professional growth. He describes this method as an essential part of his end-of-year review process, allowing him to enter the new year feeling “light” and prepared to “attack” his goals. [00:05:38]
Why Handwritten Notes Matter
Itzler champions handwritten letters for several compelling reasons:
- Breaks Through Clutter In an age dominated by digital communication, a physical letter stands out. People remember receiving handwritten notes [00:08:55] and are more likely to read their physical mail compared to DMs, texts, or Slacks. [00:09:00]
- Demonstrates Intention and Effort The act of writing a letter, licking the envelope, and mailing it conveys a unique level of care and “love” that differs significantly from simply hitting “send” on an email. [00:09:06]
- Cannot Outsource Soul Itzler believes that the “soul” or “heartbeat” of a business or personal connection cannot be outsourced. [00:10:08] When tasks traditionally done personally are delegated, something is lost, and customers or friends can sense this. [00:10:22]
- High Return on Investment Spending a small amount of time writing notes can yield significant positive returns. Itzler encourages an experiment: write 10 thank-you notes in 20 minutes to experience the “return on investment.” [00:10:32] People who receive such letters will remember and respond positively. [00:11:09]
Practical Application
Jesse Itzler’s approach to handwritten notes is deeply ingrained in his life:
- Annual Practice Every year, Itzler writes handwritten letters to 20 to 30 people who significantly impacted or helped him, including podcast hosts, suppliers, contractors, teachers, and coaches. [00:08:03] The sole purpose is to express gratitude. [00:08:34]
- A Marketing Strategy from His Twenties When he was 23, with no money and sleeping on couches, Itzler’s entire marketing strategy revolved around writing 10 handwritten letters a day. [00:08:41] He wrote approximately 3,000 letters and continues this practice to this day. [00:08:50]
- Keeping Records Itzler saves all the letters he receives in a dedicated box, starting a new one each year. [00:12:07] This practice serves as a tangible reminder of connections and appreciation.
Notable Examples
The power of handwritten notes is not unique to Itzler:
- Warren Buffett Value investor Guy Spier was inspired to start writing letters after receiving a brief, handwritten thank-you note from Warren Buffett after attending a Berkshire Hathaway Summit. [00:11:25]
- Coach K Jesse Itzler also receives an annual letter from Coach K, a testament to the enduring impact of this personal touch. [00:11:47]
By engaging in this simple yet powerful act of gratitude, individuals can cultivate stronger relationships and foster a more meaningful sense of accomplishment.