The New Year has begun, and many people might wonder how long they can wish others a "Happy New Year." According to Jonathan Lösel, the head of the German Knigge Council, the etiquette around New Year's greetings suggests the period from mid-December to mid-January is optimal. With many businesses observing holidays until January 6, individuals often don’t return to the regular work rhythm until after the second week of January. Therefore, it is entirely appropriate to extend New Year wishes until then, as people begin to reconnect professionally.
"For the expression of New Year's greetings, the period from mid-December to mid-January is a good guideline," said Lösel, clarifying when these well wishes are most fitting. The festivities surrounding the holiday season make it socially acceptable to greet people enthusiastically, especially when one meets them again after the holiday break. Yet, how does one convey these good wishes with charm if the New Year is already well underway? The advice might be less rigid than one would believe.
Even if it is late January, meeting someone anew still provides the opportunity to extend thoughtful New Year greetings. The presentation can vary to keep it sincere, as Lösel points out, stating, "I hope you entered the new year well. I sincerely wish you many joyful moments this year and exciting opportunities to meet wonderful people." Such suggestions highlight the importance of not merely repeating the phrase "Happy New Year!" as if it were just another passing formality.
Adding personal touches to New Year greetings can leave lasting impressions, showing the person you are addressing matters to you. An example Lösel provides for those who run late with their greetings states, "I look forward to our encounters this year," making it clear the speaker genuinely values the relationship.
Meanwhile, nearly everyone has, at one point or another, forgotten a friend's birthday or failed to congratulate them on their special day. Lösel advises, "One should not delay congratulating or simply overlook the birthday." It is most courteous to acknowledge the oversight as soon as noticed and reach out with belated wishes, without making excuses. An honest approach is favored, as people appreciate genuine intentions over fabricated reasons for the delay.
When one finds themselves months behind on wishing another well, it's key to simply engage with the individual and express best wishes. Whether this be for the New Year or for significant milestones like birthdays, the essence resides within the effort to maintain connections and engage on personal levels.
The act of reaching out for New Year greetings and addressing birthdays, regardless of timing, maintains important social ties. Lösel's insights reflect the broader importance of communication and celebrating one another's lives, whether through timely greetings or acknowledging missed occasions. These connections enrich our lives, reminding us of shared experiences and the human touch involved.
With greetings exchanged, individuals may reflect on the wider significance of relationships built on thoughtfulness, as they also navigate personal interactions through the year. Staying connected has never been more important, and each gesture of goodwill contributes to fostering those bonds.
So, even if you find yourself correcting the course of missed greetings, it’s never too late to express your feelings and make someone's day just a little brighter. The new year's wishes shed light on excitement for relationships yet to bloom, partnerships to strengthen, and moments of joy awaiting discovery.