How to Write an Encouraging Letter to a Friend

When we begin to cultivate an emotionally vibrant life amazing things begin to happen. One of the wonderful consequences to creating an emotionally healthy life is that we has some great friendships. We have relationships where we laugh and share together and ones where we encourage and offer some advice. One great way to build upon those friendships is to send a hand-written letter of encouragement. There is something special, especially in this digital age, about receiving a personal letter that is meant to lift a friend’s spirits or share in their happiness. Here are some elements on how to write an encouraging letter to a friend.

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I have received some beautifully written notes of encouragement. So in undertaking to write this post I feel somewhat inadequate. But writing letters is a practice I have been working at all my life so I feel that I may still have some helpful tips to help you brainstorm and get beyond your fears. We are going to write an encouraging heartfelt letter. So stop worrying about trying to create the perfect letter! Ready?

How to Write an Encouraging Letter to a Friend

Let them Know You are Thinking of Them

“I am thinking of you.” “I want you to know you were on my mind.” “I missed you at…”

Let your friend know that even when they are not around that you are still thinking of them. There is something wonderful about knowing that a fellow kindred spirit is wishing you well even when you are not standing right in front of them.

Need some encouragement for yourself? Read my letter to you.

So in your encouraging letter to your friend mention how they came to mind or you missed them at an event. Perhaps you saw something that was funny or poignant that reminded you of them. Tell them about it in your letter and encourage them by sharing how they have been on your mind and in your thoughts.

Share a Word of Encouragement or Comfort

In a letter of encouragement to a friend share a word of hope. It might be a word of cheer or of comfort.

“I believe in you.” “You are going to do great.” Or “I am saddened that you are going through this hard time.” “I am so sorry that you are hurting.”

Feel free to share a Bible verse or quote that comforted you. Do try to avoid sweeping statements like, “It will all be better soon,” or that you understand exactly what they are going through. You might want to share a thought that helped you get through a tough time, but keep the focus on them.

Add a Personal Touch

What is it that makes this person special to you? Do you love their perseverance or their heart for others? Have you noticed that they tend to be very loyal or a great mom?

In an encouraging letter to a friend, write a short description about what makes this person so wonderful or unique to you. Who doesn’t love to hear that their life has meaning or has blessed others.

“I love your heart for others.” “You’re strength and perseverance is such an example to me.” “I am so thankful I have such a wonderful caring friend in my life such as you.”

Pass along a book or small gift

Sometimes you may wish to send a little extra love by giving a book or a small gift. A letter in and of itself is beautiful. So I only give a gift if I feel like I saw something that really struck me, or I had a book come to mind a couple of times.

Read here on soothing gift ideas for a friend who is struggling or dealing with a lot of stress!

I love to receive books. It has been beneficial to receive a well-loved book that someone thought would be a blessing to me. And in turn I have often give others books. You may even choose to “gift” a book you own and have read multiple times.

I have both received and given Sarah Young’s books. They are such a cute “fit in the palm of your hand size” and each page has a brief but deeply moving thought to ponder. Jesus Always is Sarah Young’s most recent and popular book.
For the Love by Jen Hatmaker is perfect for the friend who needs a good laugh. Life and motherhood can be overwhelming. Jen steps into and sees the hilarity of everyday laugh. Don’t read this one when you need to be quiet because her bit on leggings versus tights will have you laughing so hard you are crying.Melody Carlson writes such lovely but clean escapism novels. Her characters are loveable and so relatable! Buy one of her books for a friend (or for yourself). Take a step back from the harsher realities of life for a few minutes a day to recharge. Melody Carlson’s book These Boots Weren’t Made for Walking, is humorous and sweet.