10 Tips for Writing Letters

As I was preparing yesterday's post, it gave me an idea. At first, I was going to combine this post with the one scheduled for tomorrow. However, I realized it was more beneficial to separate the two topics into two separate blog posts. So, after this post, I have two other posts scheduled for tomorrow, September 10, and Saturday, September 11.

However, for today, here are 10 tips for writing letters.

Tip 1: Don't expect immediate responses.

Sending letters obviously isn't as instant of a communication form as texting, emailing, social media, or even calling. As a result, depending on the distance between you and your pen pal, give the letter and response a couple of days. And if it's a weekend or holiday, that does push mail back by a day or two,

Tip 2: Make sure you have the correct address.

People can move, and it's possible they gave you an old address or the address of a family member they stayed with briefly. It's also possible that they still live at the same address, but if they're visiting someone for a longer period of time, they'll give you a new address so you can send them letters there. So it's always a good idea to check in every once in a while to make sure you have the correct address.

Tip 3: If you're moving, even temporarily, make sure to give any pen pals your new address.

Similarly with Tip 2, if you're moving, even temporarily, make sure to give any pen pals your new address. You can let them know how long you're staying there if it's temporary. This is a small form of kindness you can do so the letter isn't returned to your pen pal because you moved.

Tip 4: If you don't have Forever Stamps, make sure you know the postage rates.

If you're mailing within your home county, the postage rates should be the same throughout the country, no matter where you are. However, it's always good to double-check, especially if you don't have forever stamps. And if you're mailing outside of the country, it's good to check the postage rates for that. And there should be international forever stamps at your local post office, but double-check with the employees there.

Tip 5: If you're sending something in the letter, check the postal service's website to see if there are any charges for extra weight.

My sister occasionally sends tiny pins or includes stickers (not attached to the letter or envelope) in some of her letters to friends. if the letter is a certain number of ounces (like around 3), you may need to include an extra stamp. You can always refer to your postal service website or the employees at your local post office.

Tip 6: Try to write neatly.

You may have friends and family who recognize and can read your writing. However, if you usually communicate via text, social media, email, or audio/video call, they may not know your handwriting as well. It may take a bit extra time to write and finish the letter, but it'll be worth it so that they can actually read your writing. Additionally, it'll also help the postal service if you write the addresses on the envelope neatly.

Tip 7: You don't need to fill the entire card or page.

Occasionally, especially with those who are just starting to pen pal or write to people, there's a pseudo "sense of obligation" to fill up the entire card or paper with writing, details, and updates. However, this is not the case. It is 1000% okay to not fill up the entire card or page. If the extra space bothers you, you can use stickers, washi tape, draw, include photos, etc.

Tip 8: If you have stickers, washi tape, etc., feel free to decorate the inside of the card or even the envelope.

I mentioned this in Tip 7, but it does stand as its own tip as well. It's a great way to make the card, paper, and envelope more "you" and a bit more fun. Your card or letter doesn't need to be overcrowded with decorations, but it's a fun little touch.

Tip 9: Buy a variety of card styles and/or stationary paper.

Amazon, craft stores, and paper stores often sell a variety of cards and stationery. Some may have more options than others, and the prices may vary for whatever reasons. However, it's always fun to change up the cards and paper you use for the letters and cards you send.

Tip 10: Mail out birthday cards.

Birthday cards are always fun to send. Additionally, it's always nice to see how happy it makes people when they receive it. If you want to do this, try to send out any birthday cards out at the beginning of the month so they can arrive close to the actual recipient's birthday.