You know what stops me in my tracks faster than a text ping or inbox alert?
A handwritten note.
Greg Kettner—a fellow speaker I met on a call—sent one after we talked. Just a simple, natural-paper card that said, “Thanks for the amazing call today! It’s great to have a new speaker friend!”
No link. No emoji. No QR code.
Just ink.
It’s almost as good as getting a new pair of boots … well almost. (I have a boot problem, remember?)
Seeing Greg’s handwriting just. for. me. is exactly why his note stood out. In a world where “thank you” is a thumbs-up emoji or an AI-generated auto-reply, a real note feels like finding a beautiful seashell.
It slows the scroll, warms the brain, and leaves a memory. Research backs it up: Gratitude lowers stress, boosts happiness hormones, and strengthens relationships. Translation?
Your pen is a better networking tool than your phone.
So here’s my challenge: Write one note this week. A handwritten note shouldn’t be as unusual as a beautiful seashell. Write one line; use one envelope; apply one stamp.
As Greg put it, “Let’s make notes normal again.”
But I can’t leave you there.
You know I like to take care of your mind and your body.
If you’re willing to talk about cards, maybe you’re willing to talk about cardboard.
In my recent Positively Altered Podcast, “From Cardboard to Controversy: The Gluten Episode,” we tackled the topic of gluten and lots of initial skepticism.
If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at “gluten-free” menus, my episode with gluten expert Jama Lambert will change your tune—and maybe your toast.
I promise no trees or paper products were harmed in the making of this episode.
Jama’s been in the trenches of gluten research for decades, and she’s on a mission to separate fact from fiction. Remember when gluten-free meant chewing cardboard? Those days are gone.
We talk about why gluten sensitivity isn’t just a diet fad, what gluten is really doing to your gut and brain, and how to stop believing every influencer with a ring light. If you like your science with a side of sass, grab your (stainless-steel) water bottle and tune in.
Listen to Episode #36: “From Cardboard to Controversy—Separating Fact from Fiction.”
You’ll never look at your pantry—or your pen—the same way again.
Be positively altered,
Dr. Cindy M. Howard
P.S. Here are some highlights from this episode if you want to know more from Lambert: Misinformation about the spectrum of sensitivity, intolerance, and celiac; common foods that irritate even those with sensitivities; the health benefits of a rotational diet, and more!
P.P.S. I invite you to follow Greg’s example and send a note about your reaction to this post or episode … or just to say hello! My address is 18309 Distinctive Drive, Orland Park, IL 60467.