How to write a meaningful Christmas card to your friends

Many of us receive Christmas cards only to throw them away. No matter how well the card is designed, if the words written within it are not personal and sincere, it is useless in making the receiver feel really loved and lacks meaning.

We have all received a Christmas card from somebody who has simply written our name at the top and signed their name at the bottom. Although appreciated, receiving these kinds of cards can make one think that not much thought, effort or time was given in sending a card resulting in apathy.

Lots of people send greeting cards like this, because they lack confidence, not care. They may doubt their ability to express how they really feel. Given that words don't come easy, here are 3 things to consider when writing a truly meaningful Christmas card message to your friends filled with joy.

1. Acknowledge their journey. 

Photo by Annie Spratt  

It is always nice to start your Christmas card with a sentence or two that affirms the things the receiver has been through that year. Whether they have experienced success or suffered a great loss, receiving a card that begins with celebrating all the ways they have been strong, shown resilience, or accomplished achievements, lets the receiver know that you are invested in their life. When people know that another is aware of their circumstances, they feel seen and known, which encourages openness and strengthens the relationship. 

Phases you could use include:

• Wow! What a year you’ve had.
• I look at what you’ve been through and admire your strength.
• You should be proud of yourself for...
• Though it has been tough, you have achieved so much
• You are on fire! The way you handled that proves that you are braver than you think.
  
  

2. Thank them for their support.

Photo by Annie Spratt 

It is good to receive thanks. When we know that we are appreciated it makes our efforts and sacrifice feel valued. When writing your Christmas card message, be specific about how the receiver helped you. Tell them how they help make you feel. Let them know how their support changed the situation. People love to hear stories of how they have made an impact and the consequences of their generosity.

Phases you could use include:

• I am so grateful for your help and support.
• I really appreciate all the time and energy you put into…
• Knowing you are there for me makes me feel stronger.
• I can not see how I would have gotten through without you.
• Thank you for all the ways you show me that I am valued.

3. Express your hopes for them.

Photo by freestocks 

Telling our friends all the ways you wish them well, not only empowers them, it also improves the relationship. Comparison can really hurt a good friendship. When we express goodwill we eradicate envy and unhealthy competitiveness. Take a moment to think of all the things you wish would come their way. Convey the deep hopes you have for them concerning the coming year.

Phases your could use include:

• May you be wrapped in peace and strength.
• Health and happiness be yours.
• May you laugh louder and live bolder in 2022.
• I believe in you and can see you are on the rise. 
• I pray the coming year is filled with good times and goals achieved.
  
  

This year, take your Christmas cards to another level by considering what the receiver has been through, thanking them for their support and expressing the hopes you have for them for this holiday season. It is always better to write a card that is a little vulnerable than one that doesn't express any feeling at all.

Be brave, write with heart and remember the magic is in the detail.