Spreading Positivity: How to Say Good Luck & Best Wishes

If you're writing a fuller message, include the following elements to build a cohesive, uplifting message:

1. Greeting or Salutation: “Dear [Name],” or “Hello [Name],” sets the tone for your card. For a more informal note, “Hey [Name]!” might be acceptable if the relationship allows.‍
2. Opening Line: Share a warm statement acknowledging the situation. Example: “I heard you’re gearing up for [event/occasion], and I wanted to wish you all the best.”‍
3. Body of Encouragement: Add a sentence or two about why you believe they’ll succeed, referencing specific qualities or achievements. Example: “Your dedication to [skill/trait] has always impressed me.”‍
4. Offer of Support (Optional): Let them know you’re available if they need anything. Example: “If there’s anything I can do to help you prepare, just let me know.”‍
5. Positive Forward-Looking Statement: End with a forward-thinking, affirming note. Example: “I can’t wait to hear all about your triumph—go knock it out of the park!”‍
6. Closing & Signature: Conclude with a fitting sign-off that matches your relationship: “Best of luck,” “Warm regards,” “You’ve got this!” followed by your name. For added impact, you may include your role or organization if it’s a professional relationship.

1. Formal Good Luck Messages

Examples:

• “Dear Ms. Smith, I wish you the best in your upcoming board examination. Your dedication and expertise are sure to shine through.”
• “Dear Dr. Brown, congratulations on taking this significant step. May your hard work and resilience lead to the results you deserve.”

Tips:

• Use respectful titles and maintain a polished tone.
• Ideal for managers, mentors, business owners, or colleagues you don’t know very well.

2. Semi-Formal Good Luck Messages

Examples:

• “Hello [Name], I’m excited to see how your presentation goes next week. All your preparation will definitely pay off!”
• “Hi [Name], I know you’ve poured a ton of effort into this project. Sending you positive vibes for a fantastic outcome.”

Tips:

• Strike a balance between friendly and professional.
• Suited for team members, close clients, or volunteer coordinators in nonprofits.

3. Informal Good Luck Messages

Examples:

• “Hey [Name]! This new gig is so perfect for you—I just know you’ll rock it.”
• “What’s up, [Name]? Wishing you tons of success with [event]. Go show them what you’re made of!”

Tips:

• More casual, personal tone—great for close friends, family, or very familiar colleagues.
• Be sure the recipient is comfortable with casual language.

Good Luck Messages for Coworkers & Colleagues

1. For a New Job
   "Good luck on your first day at [new company], [Name]! I know you’ll bring the same dedication and creativity you showed on [specific project]. They’re lucky to have you, and I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you accomplish in this new chapter."
2. For a Big Presentation
   "Best of luck with your presentation on [specific topic], [Name]! Your preparation and insights always shine, and I know you’ll leave a lasting impression on [specific audience]. You’ve got this!"
3. For a Promotion Opportunity
   "Good luck with your interview for [specific position], [Name]! Your hard work on [specific project] has shown you’re ready for this. I’m confident you’ll impress them with your vision and leadership."
4. For a Big Career Move
   "Wishing you the best of luck as you take on [specific role or challenge]. Your skills and dedication, especially during [specific project], will undoubtedly lead to success. Go get ’em, [Name]!"
5. For a Work Milestone
   "Good luck with wrapping up [specific milestone or project], [Name]. Your ability to handle challenges with grace and determination is inspiring. I’m excited to see it all come together!"
6. For a Team Project
   "Good luck to you and the team on [specific initiative], [Name]. Your leadership and ability to rally everyone have been key to getting this far. Wishing you all a fantastic outcome!"
7. For an Important Meeting
   "Best of luck in your meeting with [specific client or group], [Name]. Your ability to connect and deliver solutions always stands out. I know you’ll do an incredible job!"
8. For Starting a Training or Course
   "Good luck as you start [specific course or certification], [Name]! Your drive to learn and grow, especially after tackling [specific challenge], is so inspiring. You’ll do great!"
9. For Relocating to a New Role
   "Good luck with the transition to [specific location or role], [Name]! Your adaptability and strong work ethic will make the move seamless. Looking forward to seeing you thrive there."
10. For a Difficult Decision
    "Best of luck as you navigate [specific decision or challenge], [Name]. Your thoughtfulness and focus, as you showed during [specific situation], will guide you to the right path."
11. For a Team Celebration or Event
    "Good luck with [specific event, e.g., the team awards ceremony], [Name]. Your effort to make it special and memorable is truly appreciated. Wishing you a fantastic turnout!"

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Best Wishes for Professional Relationships

1. For a Business Launch
   "Good luck with the launch of [specific product/service], [Name]! Your vision and hard work are evident in every detail. I’m excited to see this resonate with your audience and bring incredible success."
2. For a New Partnership
   "Best of luck as you kick off your partnership with [specific company]. Your ability to build meaningful collaborations is inspiring. I’m confident this will be a game-changer for both sides."
3. For a Board Meeting
   "Good luck in your presentation at the upcoming board meeting, [Name]. Your strategic insights and clear communication always make an impact. Looking forward to hearing about your success!"
4. For a Big Proposal
   "Best of luck with your proposal for [specific project or deal], [Name]. Your expertise and ability to present value will undoubtedly shine. Wishing you a winning outcome!"
5. For a Product Launch
   "Good luck with the launch of [specific product or service], [Name]. Your attention to detail and understanding of the market are second to none. I’m excited to see this soar!"
6. For a Funding Opportunity
   "Best of luck with your pitch to [specific investors or group], [Name]. Your passion for [specific vision] is contagious, and I know they’ll see the value you bring."
7. For a Trade Show or Conference
   "Good luck representing [specific company] at [specific event], [Name]. Your ability to connect with others and showcase [specific offering] will make this event a success."
8. For a Business Expansion
   "Best of luck with the expansion into [specific market or area], [Name]. Your vision and drive have been key to your success so far—I know this will be no exception."
9. For a Difficult Business Decision
   "Good luck with the decision about [specific issue], [Name]. Your strategic thinking and ability to weigh all angles will guide you to the right choice."
10. For Client Retention Goals
    "Good luck as you roll out [specific initiative] for [specific client base], [Name]. Your understanding of their needs and innovative approach will undoubtedly build stronger relationships."
11. For a Corporate Event
    "Best of luck with [specific event, e.g., your annual gala], [Name]. Your attention to detail and creativity in planning always deliver a memorable experience."

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Best Wishes for a Nonprofits

1. For a Fundraising Campaign
   "Good luck with [specific campaign], [Name]! Your passion and dedication to [specific cause] are inspiring. I’m confident your efforts will make a huge impact."
2. For a Volunteer Event
   "Best of luck organizing [specific event], [Name]. Your ability to bring people together for a great cause is truly amazing. Wishing you a successful and meaningful day!"
3. For a Grant Application
   "Good luck with your grant application to [specific organization], [Name]. Your work for [specific cause] deserves recognition, and I hope this funding helps you achieve even greater impact."
4. For a New Initiative
   "Best of luck with the launch of [specific initiative], [Name]. Your vision for [specific goal] is inspiring, and I know this will make a real difference."
5. For a Nonprofit Anniversary
   "Congratulations and good luck as [organization name] celebrates [specific milestone, e.g., 10 years]. Your commitment to [specific mission] has been incredible. Here’s to many more impactful years ahead!"
6. For a Community Event
   "Good luck with [specific event, e.g., the food drive], [Name]. Your leadership and heart for [specific group] are sure to make it a success."
7. For a Charity Auction
   "Best of luck with your charity auction for [specific cause], [Name]. Your effort to make this event special will undoubtedly inspire generosity."
8. For Volunteer Recruitment
   "Good luck with your volunteer outreach for [specific program], [Name]. Your ability to motivate and engage others is truly inspiring—I know you’ll build an amazing team."
9. For Public Awareness Campaigns
   "Good luck raising awareness for [specific issue], [Name]. Your work is so important, and I’m sure it will inspire others to take action."
10. For a New Leadership Role
    "Best of luck in your new position as [specific role] at [organization], [Name]. Your passion for [specific cause] and leadership skills will undoubtedly guide your team to success."
11. For a Grant Reporting Presentation
    "Good luck presenting your grant impact to [specific group], [Name]. Your dedication to [specific cause] will shine through as you share your incredible results."

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Good Luck Notes for Personal Occasions

1. For a Wedding
   "Good luck on your big day, [Name]! Your love story is so beautiful, and I know this celebration will be unforgettable. Wishing you all the happiness in the world!"
2. For a First Home
   "Good luck settling into your new home, [Name]! It’s a big step, and I’m sure you’ll make it a warm and welcoming place filled with amazing memories."
3. For a Health Journey
   "Best of luck with your health journey, [Name]. Your strength and determination are inspiring, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way."
4. For a New Baby
   "Good luck with the arrival of your little one, [Name]. Parenthood is a wonderful adventure, and I know you’ll be amazing at it!"
5. For Moving to a New City
   "Good luck with your move to [specific city], [Name]! It’s a fresh start and an exciting adventure—I can’t wait to hear all about your experiences."
6. For a Marathon or Sporting Event
   "Good luck at [specific event], [Name]. Your training and perseverance have been incredible. Go out there and give it your all!"
7. For Starting College
   "Good luck starting your journey at [specific school], [Name]! It’s an exciting chapter, and I know you’ll make the most of every moment."
8. For Retirement
   "Good luck with this new phase of life, [Name]. After all your hard work, you’ve earned this time to focus on [specific passion or hobby]. Enjoy every minute!"
9. For Travel Adventures
   "Good luck on your travels to [specific destination], [Name]. Wishing you safe journeys and unforgettable memories!"
10. For a Cooking Competition
    "Good luck at [specific competition], [Name]! Your talent and creativity in the kitchen are unmatched—I’m rooting for you!"
11. For an Academic Exam
    "Best of luck on your [specific exam or test], [Name]. Your dedication to studying and your focus will guide you to success!"
12. For a New Chapter in Life
    "Good luck as you embark on this new chapter, [Name]. Whether it’s [specific event or journey], I know you’ll approach it with courage and positivity!"

1. Be Specific: Mention something you genuinely admire about the recipient, like their persistence or creativity. This adds weight to your encouragement.‍
2. Focus on Positivity: Keep the tone optimistic. Even if there are challenges ahead, emphasize the recipient’s strengths and potential for success.‍
3. Respect Boundaries: Don’t include overly personal details if you’re not sure how comfortable the recipient is with them. Keep it relevant to their professional or personal endeavor.‍
4. Consider a Handwritten Note: In a digital era, a handwritten good luck card can stand out, showing extra thought and care.

1. Using Clichés Excessively: While phrases like “break a leg” or “all the best” are common, overusing them can feel impersonal. Mix in more original sentiments.‍
2. Downplaying Challenges: Comments such as “This will be a piece of cake for you” might undermine the real effort involved. Opt for sincere support.‍
3. Being Vague: Generic messages can feel hollow. If possible, tailor your note to the recipient’s actual goals, milestones, or tests.‍
4. Turning It Into a Sales Pitch: Keep the focus on the recipient’s success. Avoid tacking on a promotional message or hidden agenda.‍
5. Forgetting to Proofread: Typos or spelling mistakes—especially of the recipient’s name—can undermine the warmth and care you’re trying to convey.

A thoughtfully composed good luck card can boost someone’s confidence and remind them they have a supportive network rooting for their success. By matching your tone and details to the recipient’s situation, you create a message that feels genuinely uplifting—be it for a colleague facing a big presentation, a friend embarking on a new venture, or a volunteer stepping into a leadership role.

Consider writing a handwritten note if time permits. This small yet significant step can make your support even more memorable, leaving the recipient feeling truly encouraged and motivated. If you need help with the logistics, PenPals can help you send a handwritten good luck card directly to your contacts without lifting a finger - browse our cards to get started.