200+ Short Positive Messages to Uplift & Inspire Your Friends

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Plus, expert advice on the best ways to show your support

Co-authored by Alexandra Friedman and Maryana Lucia Vestic, MFA, M.Phil.

Last Updated: December 10, 2025 Fact Checked

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• Heartfelt
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• Inspirational
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• Cute
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• Funny
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• New Friend
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• Long-Distance
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• Co-Workers
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• Women
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• Men
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• Job Search
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• Breakup
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• Recovery
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• S.O.
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• Kids
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• Self
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• Uplifting Someone With Words

|Show more |Show less

Do you have a friend who needs encouragement? If you’re not sure exactly what to say to show them how much you care, you’re in the right place! We’ve compiled over 200 short positive messages for friends to inspire you. They include heartfelt messages, sayings, and quotes for all types of friends, including long-distance friends, coworkers, your significant other, kids, or even yourself (we all need a little motivation sometimes!). We’ve also spoken to licensed clinical psychologists, mental health counselors, and a relationship coach for advice on how to uplift friends using words and positive intentions.

Best Short Positive Messages For Your Friends

Licensed clinical psychologist Supatra Tovar, PsyD, RD, recommends checking in on friends to see how they’re doing, so they know that they’re on your mind and that you’re there for them. Here are some thoughtful positive messages to get you started:

• Heartfelt: Sending some good vibes and happy thoughts your way.
• Inspirational: You are stronger than you could ever imagine.
• Cute: I believe in you! And unicorns. But mostly you.
• Funny: We’re the same kind of weird. Lean on me anytime you need to.

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Section 1 of 16:

Heartfelt Short Positive Messages For Friends

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1. 
   Share your genuine feelings. Express your appreciation for the friendship while letting them know how much you support them. Etiquette coach Tami Claytor notes that something as simple as saying, "You're going to do just great. Everything is going to work out,” can make all the difference.

   • You are doing awesome!
   • You’re making a big change, and I’m so proud of you!
   • Sending some good vibes and happy thoughts your way.
   • I believe in you!
   • You are one of the strongest people I know.
   • You've handled everything life has thrown at you so far. You've got this!
   • Don't forget—you are amazing, loved, and capable of great things.
   • I love the way you bring out the best in people.
   • You are so beautiful both inside and out!
   • Don’t hesitate, believe in yourself!
   • You are capable of what you put your heart and mind into.
   • "The best mirror is an old friend." — George Herbert
   • "The language of friendship is not words but meanings." — Henry David Thoreau
   • "A friend is someone with whom you dare to be yourself." — Frank Crane

   Meet the wikiHow Experts

   Supatra Tovar, PsyD, RD, is a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY #31949) specializing in health education, clinical dietetics, and psychology.

   Allison Broennimann, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy and neuropsychology services.

   Laura Richer is a licensed mental health counselor with more than 10 years of experience in the mental health sector.

   Kim Chronister, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist helping people struggling with relationship problems and personality disorders.

   Zach Pontrello is a relationship coach helping people build better relationships with themselves and their partners.
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Section 2 of 16:

Inspirational Short Positive Messages For Friends

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1. Motivate them with your words. Part of being positive means encouraging friends who need it the most. Licensed clinical social worker Hyungbum Kang, MA, MSW, LCSW, MAC, thinks that you can “motivate and encourage a friend by recognizing their value and uniqueness.” By doing this, “you’re confirming their identity and worthiness.”

   • You might not believe in yourself, but know and remember that I believe in you.
   • I am a very lucky person. I’ve been blessed with the most wonderful friend in my life—you.
   • Your mere presence makes the world a more beautiful place.
   • You didn’t reach this far only to say that you’ve only gotten this far.
   • You are stronger than you could ever imagine.
   • Your story is still being written; make it a bestseller.
   • Try and try until you succeed.
   • You are a gift that keeps on giving. Remember that I’m also always here for you.
   • It always seems impossible until it is done.
   • To the world, you may be just one person, but to one person, you may be the world.
   • Wherever you go, no matter the weather, always bring your own sunshine.
   • "Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye." — Helen Keller
   • "One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and to be understood." — Seneca
   • "One friend with whom you have a lot in common is better than three with whom you struggle to find things to talk about." — Mindy Kaling

Section 3 of 16:

Cute Short Positive Messages For Friends

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1. 
   Look on the bright side, even if they cannot. It’s your job as a good friend to empathize with whatever they’re going through, whether this be a tough week at school or work, or a family issue. Make sure they understand that you’re their biggest fan, and will always be proud of them.

   • Sending hugs and best wishes your way. You will be in my thoughts.
   • If you ever need to talk or just cry, you know where to find me!
   • I believe in you! And unicorns. But mostly you.
   • What you’re going through right now is hard, but I’m rooting for you every minute of every day.
   • You can get through this. Take it from me. I’m very wise and stuff.
   • At a time like this, don’t even bother with a dish. Just grab a spoon and start shoveling ice cream straight from the carton.
   • Sorry that things are tough. If you need somebody to binge-watch a whole season of something with you, I’m there.
   • Just wanted to send you a smile today.
   • Remember, I’m here for you. And I have wine.
   • On a scale of 1 to 10, you're an 11.
   • "Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down." — Oprah Winfrey
   • You can sit with us. — Mean Girls
   • "When I count my blessings, I count you twice." — Bo Lanier
   • “Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you." — Mary Lou Retton
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Section 4 of 16:

Funny Short Positive Messages For Friends

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1. Make them smile with a silly message. Lighten their mood with your sense of humor, so your friends can not only get through a challenge they’re facing, but also have a great day. Comedian Manuel Garavito notes that "an inside joke always works." Mention something that makes you both laugh, so they forget about their troubles.

   • You’re the “she” to my “nanigans.” I adore you!
   • We’re the same kind of weird. Lean on me anytime you need to.
   • Unless you puke, faint, or die, keep going.
   • Don't be afraid to fail. It's just the universe's way of setting the stage for your comeback story... or at least a good bar story.
   • We’ll be the old ladies causing trouble in the nursing home.
   • If you feel like you're going through hell, keep going. But maybe stop for a snack first.
   • Aim to work until your bank account resembles a phone number.
   • Things will turn out OK. And if they don’t? We can always blame it on Mercury being in retrograde!
   • I’d choose your company over pizza anytime. And that’s the best compliment I can give.
   • Your energy could make coffee jealous.
   • True friends don’t judge each other. They judge other people together.
   • “The capacity for friendship is God's way of apologizing for our families.” — Jay McInerney
   • “We’ve been friends for so long that I can’t remember which one of us is the bad influence.” — Unknown
   • “‘Tis the privilege of friendship to talk nonsense, and to have her nonsense respected.” — Charles Lamb

Section 5 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For New Friends

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1. 
   Express how lucky you are to have found such a great friend. Even if a friendship is still new, it’s a good idea to let the other person know that you adore them and why. Words of encouragement don’t require a lot of sentences to get your point across. Including a quote about true friendship is a thoughtful way to show you care!

   • Don’t try to be perfect. Just try to be better than you were yesterday.
   • Don’t forget to be awesome.
   • You can do anything you set your mind to.
   • Being brave doesn’t mean you’re not afraid. It just means you try anyway.
   • Make today matter!
   • May we continue to build each other up, filling our lives with endless possibilities.
   • Remember your why.
   • The only time you run out of chances is when you stop taking them.
   • Better times are ahead; I can’t wait to experience them alongside you.
   • Remember: This is what you are going through, not who you are.
   • I see you, I celebrate you, and I hold space for you.
   • "True friends are like diamonds—bright, beautiful, valuable, and always in style." — Nicole Richie
   • “Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” — Tennessee Williams
   • "A good friend is like a four-leaf clover; hard to find and lucky to have." — Irish Proverb
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Section 6 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Long-Distance Friends

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1. Let them know you’re by their side, even when you’re not. It’s not easy to maintain a long-distance friendship, but communication is key. According to Dr. Tovar, “texting can be a quick and valuable tool to let your friends know you are thinking about them and wishing them good luck from afar. Nothing is more uplifting than hearing your phone chime when you’re feeling low. The simple act of checking in can make a person's day go from bad to better.”

   • Sending you a big hug and lots of love to start your day off right.
   • You are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to!
   • Miles apart but close at heart.
   • You'll always be my person, no matter the distance.
   • Forever friends, no matter where.
   • Sending you a virtual hug from across the miles.
   • I miss your face!
   • I miss you, but I'm so grateful for our friendship even from afar.
   • You may be far, but our memories are near.
   • I can't wait until we can catch up in person.
   • Across cities and years, our bond stays strong.
   • "True friends are never apart, maybe in distance but never in heart." — Helen Keller
   • “True friendship resists time, distance, and silence.” — Isabel Allende
   • “Time doesn't take away from friendship, nor does separation.” — Tennessee Williams

Section 7 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Co-Workers

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1. 
   Be encouraging to those you love working with. Coworkers can easily become good friends, especially when you’re together so much of the time. Take the time to champion their cause or add positivity to any part of their life. They’ll likely be thankful they work with someone as thoughtful as you.

   • Your attitude determines your direction. I know you’ll make it great!
   • You are my favorite friendly face in the office, and I’m here for you.
   • Keep shining! You are capable of amazing things.
   • Don't forget how strong and capable you are.
   • Your optimism in the face of challenges is inspiring. You can do it!
   • Don’t forget to celebrate how far you’ve already come!
   • Together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.
   • Your speed doesn’t matter. Forward is forward.
   • Grow through what you go through.
   • Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn.
   • It doesn’t matter what others are doing. It matters what you are doing.
   • Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.
   • "Coffee and friends make the perfect blend." — Unknown
   • "All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them." — Viola Davis
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Section 8 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Women

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1. Tell your favorite lady how awesome she is. If you’re friends with a truly amazing woman, boost her confidence by stating how special she is. She’ll feel like she can conquer the world with friends like you by her side.

   • Hey, girl—you’re doing awesome! If they still gave out gold stars for life achievements, you’d have your whole forehead covered by now.
   • You are my rockstar, and I’m behind you every step of the way!
   • Remember that it's okay to not be okay.
   • Take everything one day at a time. Let me know how I can help.
   • You don't have to do this alone. I’m here, too.
   • Sending you big hugs and happy thoughts.
   • Just pick up the phone if you need me.
   • One step at a time, you’re almost there!
   • Break a leg! Go out there and wow them.
   • Whatever the universe has in store for you is going to be amazing.
   • Your friendship is so important to me, and I’ll always support you.
   • Never apologize for being a powerful woman.
   • "The best way to mend a broken heart is time and girlfriends." — Gwyneth Paltrow
   • “Women's friendships are like a renewable source of power.” — Jane Fonda

Section 9 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Men

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1. 
   Foster a sense of pride for a guy you care about. No matter what he’s facing, your messages will let him know that he has everything needed to be successful. They also show him that your friendship has real value that can’t be replicated. He’ll be able to make the impossible possible in no time!

   • You've got this, and I've got your back.
   • Your greatest achievement is not in never falling, but in rising every time you fall.
   • You have everything it takes to be successful.
   • This is tough, but you’re definitely tougher.
   • It sucks that you have to go through this, but I know you can do it.
   • No task is too big for you.
   • Your strength is inspiring.
   • It's just a bad day. Good ones are coming.
   • This too shall pass. I know it.
   • You have the strength to get through this.
   • Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.
   • I’m so proud to know you. You can do anything.
   • “A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” — Walter Winchell
   • "Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together." — Woodrow Wilson
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Section 10 of 16:

Short Positive Messages During a Job Search

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1. Encourage friends to keep searching for the best job possible. Looking for work can be a stressful time, but with friends like you, it doesn’t have to be. Cheer them up by saying what a great person they are, and how the right thing will come along at just the right moment. They’ll appreciate the positive mindset you offer them!

   • It’s tough now, but I believe a brighter future awaits. You’ll get through this. Trust me.
   • My friend, always remember that you are important and worthy of all the good things in this world.
   • Don’t lose faith. It can be really hard to keep going at times, especially when you don’t have enough motivation. But despite that, we should still keep our heads up.
   • Chin up, guard up, and walk up—no matter the disaster or storm!
   • It always seems impossible until it's done.
   • Opportunities don't happen; you create them.
   • If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.
   • The best way to predict the future is to create it.
   • Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.
   • Remember, even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward.
   • You may think today was a failure, but it’s not. It’s prep work for the real challenge, and you’re sure to be the victor.
   • My friend, there are so many beautiful reasons to fight for life and happiness. Keep going. Let’s fight together.
   • "Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them." — Madam C.J. Walker
   • Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." — Winston Churchill

Section 11 of 16:

Short Positive Messages After a Breakup or Divorce

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1. 
   Support your friend through heartbreak with an encouraging message. Licensed mental health counselor Laura Richer believes you can “validate their experience while offering them positive encouragement.” Say something like, “I can see that you’re scared, but I think that you're really brave.” Be there for them as they pick up the pieces, and promise that better times will come.

   • I know you’re going through a lot. I’m here anytime you need me.
   • You're going to be okay on the other side.
   • Please remember that you are so worthy of happiness.
   • Brighter days are ahead.
   • You're not starting over; you're starting with experience.
   • I get what you’re going through. I know how hard it is. I’m so proud of you.
   • If you fall, I’ll pick you up. If I can’t pick you up, then I’ll just lie down and rest with you. Let’s get back to the top together.
   • Your mistakes and failures don’t define who you are. Believe you can, and you’ll eventually get there. I’ll be there to hold you up.
   • You’re going to have good days, and you’re going to have bad days. I’m here for all of them.
   • We all experience bad days. When you feel like there’s nothing you can do about it, know that you can always depend on me for support.
   • I know you're going through so much right now. Don't forget I'm always here for you!
   • The book of life isn’t written yet. Today, you had a bad chapter, but the rest of the book is yours to write. Time to turn the page.
   • “When things go wrong, don’t go with them.” — Elvis Presley
   • “Every day may not be a good day, but there is good in every day.” — Unknown
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Section 12 of 16:

Short Positive Messages During Sickness or Recovery

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1. Admire their resilience when they’re going through health issues. If one of your friends is recovering from an illness or procedure, it's definitely a good idea to reach out with a positive message. Your kind words will lift their spirits and bolster their strength for the recovery period ahead!

   • Sending healing thoughts always!
   • Hoping you feel a little better each day.
   • Rest up and feel better soon!
   • You've been through a lot. Better days are ahead!
   • No need to reply, just thinking of you and your recovery.
   • I know you're going through a lot with this recovery, and I'm so in awe of how strong you are!
   • Just letting you know that you’re awesome, you’re going to get through this, and you’re my hero always.
   • It’s going to be okay. While it hurts now, you will recover, and you will get through this.
   • It’s hard to see a silver lining when you’re in the cloud. But soon, the clouds will clear, and you’ll see the sun again.
   • Bravery and courage are hard-won, but they’re yours now. Nothing will ever break you again.
   • Your strength and determination are inspiring. I believe in your ability to achieve a healthier future.
   • Who cares about the storm? Don’t worry. I can’t make it stop, but I can always hold your umbrella.
   • “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” — Helen Keller
   • "Wishing you strength for today and hope for tomorrow." — Renee O'Neill

Section 13 of 16:

Short Positive Messages for Significant Others

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1. 
   Send a sweet text if your partner also happens to be your best friend. Relationship coach Zach Pontrello recommends “thinking about something that your partner has done for you recently that made you feel a certain way. Send them a message, letting them know that you really appreciate them. Be genuine about something that you really love about them in a very authentic way.”

   • I love you a little more every single day.
   • You are not just my partner; you are my best friend. I know I can always count on you.
   • I am beyond lucky to have fallen in love with my best friend.
   • You changed my world the day I met you, and I have never looked back since.
   • You make me better.
   • You're not alone, we're in this together.
   • No matter how dull my days go, your presence makes everything in my life colorful.
   • Together, we can do anything.
   • I support you no matter what.
   • I'm grateful to have you by my side. I’ll do anything to help you win big!
   • You’ve never let me down, and I’ll always return the favor.
   • Your kindness makes the world a better place. Believe in yourself!
   • "Today, if a smile comes to you, a happy smile that perhaps you can't explain, it's because in that moment, I am thinking of you and smiling too." — Unknown
   • “How you can already miss someone when you are in the same room with them, I have no idea. But I do.” — Karen Harrington
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Section 14 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Kids

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1. Connect with kids through simple, loving sayings and quotes. For kids to appreciate encouraging words, they need to relate to the ideas. You can use a quote from a kids’ character like Winnie the Pooh, or just remind them that they don’t have to be perfect—they only need to be themselves!

   • Sending happy thoughts and a little sunshine.
   • I just hugged you in my thoughts. Hope you felt the squeeze.
   • It's okay to make mistakes. That's how we learn.
   • You don't have to be perfect to be great.
   • You can do anything you set your mind to.
   • You're not like anyone else, and that makes me happy.
   • Just give it a try. You'll never know unless you try it.
   • Try, try, try!
   • The sky's the limit for anything you want to do!
   • Don’t give up, you can do this.
   • Do your best, leave the rest.
   • You’re such a smart cookie. Keep going!
   • "Sometimes me think, 'What is friend?' and then me say, 'Friend is someone to share the last cookie with.'" — Cookie Monster
   • “You’ve got a friend in me.” — Toy Story

Section 15 of 16:

Short Positive Messages For Yourself

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1. 
   Keep yourself going strong with a reminder about all you can be. Sometimes, you need to be your own best friend! Self-affirmations are a wonderful way to stay positive, boost confident, and show yourself some kindness. Keep a quote you’re fond of nearby or on a note card in the mirror. When you look at yourself in the morning, repeat the words so you’re ready to face anything.

   • I am strong, even when I'm scared.
   • I can handle anything that comes my way.
   • I have the ability to overcome challenges.
   • If I fall, I'll get back up,
   • I can choose to feel any emotion I want today; my happiness is up to me.
   • I am grateful for this moment.
   • Every day, in every way, I am becoming better and better.
   • I don’t have to be perfect; I just have to try my best.
   • I can learn and grow from my mistakes.
   • I am brave and bold, my dreams I will hold.
   • Opportunities arise, I reach for the skies.
   • I can love myself no matter what I’m going through.
   • "Life changes very quickly, in a very positive way, if you let it." — Lindsey Vonn
   • "It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." — Aristotle
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Section 16 of 16:

How to Uplift Someone with Words

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1. 1
   Be sincere. Speak from the heart to let friends know how much you care about them. Dr. Tovar, suggests “letting them know that you are there whenever they need you." Letting them know they got this can help reinforce their belief in themselves and boost their self-confidence.

   • For example, say “Sending some good vibes and happy thoughts your way.”
   • Or, you could tell them, “You've got this, and I've got your back.”
2. 2
   Ask about what they’re feeling. It’s just as important to inquire about how they’re doing, whether they’re facing a challenge or not. Dr. Tovar recommends "asking them genuinely how they are doing and telling them that you want to help. Ask them how you can help or what they need." If you’re concerned about a particular situation, mention it.

   • For example, ask “Are you still waiting to hear back from the job? Don’t worry—you’ve got this, and if not, I know the right opportunity is coming soon!”
   • Or, try, “How are you feeling lately? Know that I’m here for you wherever you need anything.”
3. 3
   Listen instead of simply offering them advice. They may want to talk about their feelings, but not necessarily hear that you’ve got the perfect answer. Clinical psychologist Kim Chronister, PsyD, believes that active listening “encourages people, as does asking them if they want you to let them vent or if they actually want advice. Try not to assume what they need and actually ask them.”
4. 4
   Check in on them regularly, via text, email, or phone. Being consistent with positive words of encouragement can make more of a difference than sporadically checking in. Clinical psychologist Allison Broennimann, PhD, “likes to send emails that let others know I'm thinking of them and that I hope we get to share an experience in the future.”

   • Some thoughtful gifts to go along with your positive messages include the following:
     • Personal journals: They can write down their thoughts, feelings, and dreams.
     • Inspirational wall art: A piece of art can inspire them every time they look at it.
     • Affirmation cards: Cards are a wonderful reminder of what they’re thankful for.
     • Self-care kits: Self-care helps them relax and take time for themselves.
     • Aromatherapy diffusers: Diffusers can transform a space into a calm oasis.
     • Personalized keepsakes: They love a small treasure that keeps them in mind.
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