Charlotte

My wife Charlotte began a tradition that we have sustained throughout our marriage. At various times, she has hidden greeting cards -- some poking fun, other lamentably sentimental -- in some most unusual places. I have found them on my pillow, at the dining table, in my car, or hidden in my suitcase when I travel. Inside each card she has added a thoughtful, handwritten message to me. When I started doing the same for Charlotte, I found myself giving a great deal of thought about my feelings for her as the perfect spouse, lover, and best friend. Over the years I have come to realize that this was, and still is, time well spent articulating my affection for her. I strongly recommend this kind of testimony to all couples. Flowers and gifts are important, but the time and effort required to select a suitable card and then write an additional heartfelt message will create a special kind of self-selling technique that can be a powerful bond after the nuptial knot has been tied.

Reprinted with permission from How to Get Anyone to Do Anything. Copyright © 2006 by R. Philip Hanes, Ten Speed Press, Berkeley, CA