My First Million
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Send 10-25 handwritten thank you notes annually to strengthen relationships
Why It Works
Everyone reads physical mail, requires more effort showing genuine care, and creates lasting impression that digital communication cannot match
Prerequisites
How to Execute
Keep a running list of people who deserve thanks
Write letters during downtime (flights, watching TV)
Keep it short and specific - mention what they did for you
Mail them rather than handing them out personally
When It Fails
When letters feel generic or obligatory rather than genuine, or when you try to scale it too much
Real Example
“Jesse writes 25 handwritten thank you notes annually, including one to podcast hosts thanking them for the opportunity to address their audience”
Related Knowledge
Itzler Annual Planning System
A three-step system for intentional year planning: getting light (decluttering), closing out the previous year (reflection and gratitude), and setting one year-defining goal (misogi).
Calendar as Autobiography Framework
Viewing your calendar as your most honest autobiography and highlight reel - what you put energy toward reveals your true priorities and creates the story of your life.
Create mental and physical space for the new year by eliminating clutter and unused commitments
Coming into the new year feeling light, organized, and ready to take action without the weight of accumulated clutter and obligations.
Create a comprehensive review of the past year to identify accomplishments, gaps, and lessons learned
A one-page summary of your year's highlights that makes you feel proud of what you accomplished and clear about what you want to do differently.
CEO of Your Life
Thinking of yourself as the chief executive of your personal life, with the authority and responsibility to make strategic decisions about how you spend your time and energy.
Momentum Through Small Actions
Starting big projects with the smallest possible action to build psychological momentum, rather than waiting until you feel ready to tackle the whole thing.