Messages for New Beginnings: Encouraging Words for People Starting Fresh or Starting Over

Back-to-school is a high-emotion time, whether a child is excited to see friends or nervous about changes, and that’s why you can’t go wrong with a few encouraging words for kids. If you know the child is thrilled about going back to school, you can go with an upbeat message that shows you share in their excitement.

Examples:

• “You’re going to rock 4th grade.”
• “Can’t wait to watch you shine this year!”
• “Another school year, another year of you being amazing.”
• “Happy back-to-school time! Hope this year is the best one yet.”
• “As you head into another year of school, I just want you to know how proud I am of all your hard work.”
• “I can’t believe you’re already a senior! It’s been so fun watching you grow and learn all these years, and I know this year will be a great one.”

If the child is anxious about starting school or entering a new or unexpected phase of school—such as online or hybrid learning, or a school or teacher change—your message could offer friendly support.

Examples:

• “I’m thinking about you as you start a new school year!”
• “Even though school is different, you’re the same smart kid. You can do this, and I’ll be there to cheer you on.”
• “I know you’ll learn a lot in school this year, but you already have the most important lessons down. You’re kind, caring, thoughtful and just an all-around good person…and that’s something you’ll carry with you long after school is over.”
• “You’re going to kick butt. And when you need a little help, you know I’ve got you.”
• “As you start a new school year, I wanted to let you know I’m so proud of you for always trying your hardest.”
• “A new school year means you’re one step closer to being DONE!”

Starting School in Difficult Times

It’s okay to acknowledge reality while also providing encouragement. Here are some ways to address heading back to school under less-than-ideal circumstances:

• “We’re in this online-learning adventure together.”
• “I know school is different right now, and I think you’re doing a great job handling all the changes.”
• “Things might be rough, but I’m proud of the way you’re hanging in there. Keep it up!”
• “This is a tough time to be starting college, but you’ve got the strength and resilience to make it through.”
• “I’m sure this isn’t how you expected your first year of college to start, but I know you’ll bring your incredible personality and amazing strength to each new situation.”

Whether they’re leaving home for the first time to head to college far away or living at home and studying nearby, it’s a new beginning to celebrate. Encouraging college students, those in technical programs or anyone receiving a career certification is a great way to set them up for success. Your message could focus on the fact that they’ve made it this far, or you could look ahead.

Examples:

• “So proud of you for all you’ve done to get here.”
• “Can’t wait to see where you go from here!”
• “(Your college) is so lucky to have you!”
• “We’re going to miss you like crazy, but we know you’re ready for this and you’re going to have the time of your life!”
• “What an exciting new adventure—time to explore who you are and what you’re interested in. You’re going to love it.”
• “The first-day-of-school jitters apply to grown-ups, too. But it’s an excellent excuse to buy shiny new school supplies.”
• “Congratulations as you start a new chapter in life!”
• “Even though you’re headed off to college, remember I’m always here for you and I’m only a phone call or text away.”

Graduation is a time to celebrate new beginnings and a life stage coming to an end. Whether they’re graduating from high school or a college master’s program, they definitely deserve some praise.

Examples:

• “So impressed with everything you’ve accomplished. Can’t wait to see what you do next!”
• “No matter what you do next, I know you’ll bring your very own unique blend of smarts, courage and heart. Congratulations.”
• “Nothing like a fresh, new certificate to hang on your office wall! Congrats!”

New home, new city, new surroundings…a big move is a big deal. Your message could show optimism but also let your loved one know that you’re still with them, wherever they are.

Examples:

• “So excited for you and your new journey!”
• “Everyone here is really going to miss you, but we can’t wait to hear all about your next adventure.”
• “No amount of distance can keep us from texting each other 200 times a day.”
• “No matter how far apart we are, you’ll always have my love and support.”
• “Best of luck with the move—and remember, I’m always a text (phone call, video call, etc.) away.”

Becoming an empty nester is bittersweet, and your message can reflect that. Depending on your loved one’s circumstances, you could mention the pride they feel in their child or the fact that they did a great job preparing their child for the real world. You could also look ahead to the fun times they’ll have as an empty nester.

Examples:

• “As bittersweet as this time might be for you, I hope you know what a great job you’ve done to get to this place. Congratulations on raising such a wonderful child.”
• “The fact that (your child) is so ready to be out in the world is a testament to the incredible parent you are. Good job, (Mama).”
• “Congratulations on moving to the next stage of parenthood! Here’s to all the family memories you’ve made over the years and to all the good times still to come.”
• “Welcome to the Empty Nester Club! Looking forward to sharing memories, kid updates and new adventures with you.”
• “I promise, missing them gets easier. You might even learn to enjoy not tripping over the stuff they leave all over the house.”
• “Yes, it’s weird when they leave. But you’ll get used to the quiet. And the clean bathroom. And not finding empty milk cartons in the fridge.”

Big promotion or a new dream job? Time to celebrate! But if someone has been laid off and is taking a new position just to get by, they might not be excited so much as just thankful to have a job. Someone who was transferred to another department or location might be looking forward to the change, but also experiencing sadness over leaving their old role and co-workers.

Basically, approach this one with sensitivity and consider all angles when writing your message. When in doubt, keep your message super simple and just wish them the best.

Examples:

• “You did it! Congrats on getting your dream job!”
• “What an exciting new opportunity! Can’t wait to hear all about the new job.”
• “You’re seeing what happens when hard work, perseverance and talent finally pay off. So happy for you!”
• “This new job is the start of something great—I just know it! Congratulations.”
• “I’m jealous of your new co-workers because they get to work with YOU! We’re going to miss you around here.”
• “Wishing you the best as you start in your new role.”
• “I’m sorry your career path isn’t leading where you hoped it would. I’m sending good vibes and hoping your new team appreciates the experience and talent you bring with you!”
• “Thinking of you and trusting that this is a stepping-stone along the path to something that makes you truly happy.”
• “With your brains and talent, I just know you’ll make a positive contribution at your new job.”
• “Congratulations on the new job. They’re so lucky to have you!
• “It takes a lot of determination and hard work to start a business. Wishing you nothing but success as you begin this new adventure.”

Retirement is another “new beginning” that can come with mixed emotions. Your message can focus on the positive aspects of the situation and make your loved one feel good about the work they’ve done over the years, as well as look forward to the future.

Examples:

• “You’ve had a career to be proud of, and now you have a future to get excited about! Congratulations.”
• “What are we going to do without you? Your contributions have been nothing short of incredible, and you will be so missed around here.”
• “You have done so much for others over the years. Now it’s your time—to relax a little, to think back on the difference you’ve made and to do the things you truly enjoy.”

It’s hard to know what to say to a loved one who’s going through a divorce or the end of any significant relationship, but a caring message can really make a difference here. Your message will depend on how much you know about the relationship, but it’s always a good idea to stay out of any drama and just focus on being supportive. You don’t need to go into detail—a simple message of encouragement will show you’re thinking of them.

Examples:

• “You’re on my mind and in my heart.”
• “Keeping you close in my thoughts.”
• “I just wanted to let you know you’re on my mind and in my prayers.”
• “I’m thinking of you, and I’m only a text or phone call away.”
• “Whatever you need right now—a listening ear, a pint of ice cream, a bottle of wine—I’m here.”
• “I’d love to help you through this transition any way I can.”
• “Meals, babysitting, helping you pack—you name it, and I’m there.”
• “I’m so sorry you have to experience the pain of divorce, but I’m happy you’re doing what’s right for you.”
• “I know this wasn’t an easy decision to make for your family. Just want you to know I support you.”
• “I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’m here for you.”

When a Couple Splits Up

As tempting as it can be to take sides or encourage a friend to move on, that’s not always the best way to show support—especially when you don’t know all the details. A few tips:

• Don’t trash their ex. Just focus on your friend and helping them to get through this time. (Here are some ways you can show up for them.)
• Don’t press for details about the breakup. Focus on being there, listening and letting them know you care about them.
• Don’t focus on what’s next. They may not be thinking about moving out, getting divorced or creating a dating site profile. Just let them know you’re going to be with them through it all.

Whether someone is making diet and exercise changes for a healthier future, breaking an addiction or making any other positive change, you can be there to cheer them on every step of the way. Your words can help give them confidence to push through any obstacles along the way.

Examples:

• “You’re making a big change, and that’s a really big deal.”
• “I’m so proud of you for doing what’s right for you!”
• “I’m rooting for you, every day, all the time.”
• “Even when you might not always feel like it, you have the strength to do this!”
• “It takes serious courage to get on this path and stay on it. Good for you.”
• “You have so many people supporting you on this journey, and we’re here the whole way, no matter what.”

Find more encouraging words for different situations.

Coming out and transitioning are not “one and done” events. These are lifelong journeys, and the experience is different from one person to the next. Your message can show support and confirm that you’ll always be there for them.

Examples:

• “Coming out is a journey, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you every step of the way.”
• “I’m so excited to call you by your true name. Congratulations on your transition!”
• “I can’t imagine what this is like for you, but I’m here for you in whatever way you need.”
• “Here’s to being unapologetically, perfectly YOU.”