"Congrats!" is fine, but forgettable. A congratulations that actually means something recognises the effort behind the moment, not just the moment. Here's how.
Name what it took
Celebrate the work, not only the win: "all those late nights paid off." It shows you saw the journey, not just the headline.
Be specific to them
Tie it to what you know - the degree they nearly quit, the job they've wanted for years. Specifics turn a card line into a personal message.
Share the feeling
Say how you feel: proud, thrilled, a little emotional. Genuine emotion is what people remember.
Skip the backhanded stuff
No "finally!" or "about time." Keep it clean and warm.
Example
"You did it, and I know exactly what it cost you to get here. Two years of early mornings, and you never complained. I'm so proud of you. Let's celebrate soon."
Want help? The congratulations helper builds a message like this from a few answers.