What to Write in a January “You Have Got This” Encouragement Card

What to Write in a January “You Have Got This” Encouragement Card

January is a funny month. Everyone is tired from December, the days feel shorter than ever, and suddenly there is pressure to be motivated, organised, energised and ready for a fresh start. Most of us are not quite there yet, which is exactly why a thoughtful encouragement card can make such a difference. A few kind lines in the post can give someone a genuine lift and make the start of their year feel a little softer and more supported.

Whether you are cheering on a friend, reassuring a partner, or giving a colleague a quiet boost, the right message can feel surprisingly powerful. Your words can remind someone that they are not alone, that it is fine to move slowly, and that they are already doing better than they think. Here is how to write something warm, meaningful and very human for someone who needs to hear that they really have got this.

When to Send a January Encouragement Card

January is full of moments that deserve a little encouragement. It is the first proper week back at work, routines feel heavier, and people often hit a dip in motivation once the glitter of Christmas fades. Sending an encouragement card now shows that you notice what someone is going through and that you want their year to start with warmth instead of pressure.

This type of card is perfect for new jobs, new routines, feeling stuck, recovering from a tough year, or simply needing someone to say that they are doing well even if it does not feel like it. It does not need to be dramatic or tied to a big event. Sometimes the nicest cards are the ones that arrive for no reason at all, apart from wanting to make someone feel seen and supported.

What to Write in a “You Have Got This” Card

The best encouragement messages manage to be honest, supportive and hopeful without feeling overly sugary or fake. January is not the time for forced positivity. What people appreciate most is a gentle reminder that someone believes in them, that the year is long, and that they do not have to figure everything out today. A few real, steady words are worth much more than a long inspirational speech.

For a Friend

Friends often carry more than they admit, especially at the start of the year. They might be dealing with changes, worries, or quiet stress that they have not fully shared. A kind message from you can help them breathe a little easier and remember their strength. It tells them that someone is in their corner, even on the days when they feel like they are not doing enough.

• Proud of you for stepping into the new year with so much courage. You have got this.
• Whatever this year brings, you are stronger than you know. I am cheering you on.
• You handled so much last year. This year is yours to grow.
• You deserve good things and peaceful days. I believe in you.

For a Partner

Partners are often the ones we lean on the most, but they sometimes forget how much strength they have of their own. A thoughtful message feels caring and grounding, especially in a month that can be stressful and tired. A card lets you step back from the day to day and say the things that can be easy to skip in conversation.

• I know you can do anything you set your mind to. I am here for all of it.
• You amaze me every day. Whatever comes next, we face it together.
• You are stronger than you think. I hope this year treats you with kindness.
• I am proud of the person you are and all you are working toward.

For a Colleague or Work Friend

Work in January is a special kind of tired. Inboxes are full, everyone is catching up, and energy levels are not quite ready to play along. Encouragement sent to a colleague can lift their whole week without being overly personal. Keeping your message positive, friendly and supportive shows that you see their effort and value what they do.

• Big tasks or small steps, you will handle this year with style.
• You always bring your best. Wishing you a bright and successful year ahead.
• I believe in your skills and your strength. You have got this.
• January energy is tough, but you are tougher.

For a Family Member

Family often see the sides of us that no one else does. If someone in your family has been through a lot or has big plans ahead, your encouragement may mean more than you realise. A card from you can help them feel appreciated and supported, not just as part of the family but as their own person working through their own challenges.

• Whatever this year holds, know you are surrounded by people who believe in you.
• One day at a time. You are doing better than you think.
• You bring so much light to our family. I hope this year brings the same to you.
• You have overcome so much already. You should be proud.

What Not to Write

Encouragement works best when it sounds thoughtful, not forced. There are a few things that tend to fall flat in January, especially when people are already feeling a bit overwhelmed. Being careful about what you avoid can be just as important as what you include.

Try not to use phrases that sound like pressure, such as telling someone they should be positive or reminding them that this is meant to be their big fresh start. Skip cliché lines like “New year new you” which often feel unrealistic or irritating rather than inspiring. Be cautious with jokes about resolutions, productivity or weight, as they can touch on sensitive topics you might not know about.

If you focus on kindness, understanding, and belief in them as they are right now, you will almost always get it right. Your card is there to support them, not score motivational points.

Personalising Your Message

Adding a small personal detail makes your card feel thoughtful instead of generic. This does not mean you need to write paragraphs. A single specific line can turn a simple message into something they remember and keep.

You could mention something they did last year that made you proud, or a small moment they might not even realise stood out to you. You might recall a conversation you shared, or refer to a goal or plan they told you about. An inside joke or tiny shared memory can instantly make the card feel like it could only have come from you.

Write your message in your natural voice, not a formal version of yourself. It is fine if your wording is simple. The most human messages are usually the ones people keep tucked away for years.

Choose the Right Card

The card you choose sets the tone before they even read your message. In January, calm colours, gentle illustrations and designs that make people feel cared for work beautifully. Soft, simple or uplifting imagery tends to suit this kind of encouragement card much better than something very loud or heavily themed.

Think about what would make them feel comfortable and supported. A cosy design, a small burst of colour, or a quiet bit of humour can all work well. The goal is for the card to feel like a warm drink on a cold day, something they are glad to receive and happy to keep on a shelf or desk.

Send a Little Strength Their Way

January can be a heavy month, but your card can make it feel lighter. A short message that says you believe in them, that you see their effort, and that you are on their side can genuinely shift someone’s mindset for the better. It does not need to be perfect to be powerful.

So grab a pen, choose a card that feels comforting, and send a small boost of courage to someone who deserves it. One thoughtful note that says “You have got this” might be exactly what they need to hear as they step into the year ahead.