What do you write in an encouragement card?

You've made the first step: intention to show support! Now for finding the right words... There are so many situations when encouragement and support are welcome: a new job (or leaving an old one); mental health struggles; chronic health issues; loss or difficulty in a friendship; heading out on an adventure; and on and on. Below are some ideas of what to write in your encouragement card.

Do:

• Acknowledge their courage and their strength. It takes guts to take on new challenges or face seemingly never-ending ones.
• Acknowledge the wide gamut of their feelings. Perseverance, boldness, anger, sadness, confusion, joy, hope, etc.
• Say how proud you are of their progress. Use a specific example, if you have one. Tell them what you appreciate about them.
• Offer your support. Include sentiments like "I'm always here to listen" or "Take your time" or "It's okay to feel how you're feeling right now."
• Focus on the person, not the end results. No one can be sure of what will happen in the future; false hope doesn't often bring real hope.

Don't:

• Avoid offering advice. They've probably tried it. Or don't want to try it. Your advice, however well-meaning, probably won't have the effect you're hoping for.
• Avoid telling them to move on, get over it, or that it's not that big of a deal. Don't minimize their feelings or experience.
• Don't make comparisons. Everyone's experiences are valid and no one wins by comparing whose struggles are more complicated.
• Be sensitive to their religious or philosophical beliefs. A sentiment like "You're in my prayers" may be encouraging for some and a slap in the face for others.

So, it might sounds something like:

Dear Mark,

I'm so proud of how you've been facing this job change head-on. Your resilience and adaptability are inspiring. I know you probably have times of doubt or anger. I'm hear to listen whenever you feel like unloading that. Give yourself grace as you figure out what this new chapter looks like.

Seth