Usually the first attempt at writing a note is awkward and disjointed and you run out of space before you’ve said what you want to. Don’t stress: jot down a few ideas on a separate sheet of paper or write an entire first draft before you set anything down in your card.
Especially try to note things you might normally take for granted. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just a simple, “Thanks for letting me borrow your coat,” or “Thank you for cancelling your plans to be with me when I was sick. " Try to work in appreciation for general qualities, like, “You’re so thoughtful. I appreciate that you always open the door for me when we go out. " Or, “That was so kind of you to give them a ride home. You’re a really good friend. "
Try to make it about them. Say things like, “You’re such a compassionate person, and it really comes through in your interactions with people. They can tell how warm and kind you are within minutes of meeting you. " It’s okay to talk about how they make you feel, since you’re telling them why you love them, but try not to make it too self-centered. For example, “You’re such an open person that I’ve always felt like I could tell you anything,” is great, because it emphasizes a particular quality they possess and it tells them that you trust them. If you compliment them on physical features, be specific. Don’t just say, “You’re sexy,” or “You’re beautiful. " Say, “You have gorgeous eyes,” or “You walk so confidently, and it’s really attractive. "
