A little encouragement can go a long way in any relationship, especially when it comes to bigging your partner up.
Men might not always show it, but they can benefit from small, thoughtful gestures that remind them they’re appreciated and capable. A little heartfelt compliment can go a long way, as can doing little things to prove to him just how much he means to you and brings to your life. Here are just a few ways to send his confidence skyrocketing — they don’t take much effort, but they’ll make all the difference.
1. Compliment him on his strengths.
Source: Unsplash Everyone loves a genuine compliment, and your husband is no exception. Point out the things he’s great at, whether it’s fixing things around the house, nailing a presentation at work, or being a fantastic dad. Specific compliments feel authentic and can instantly lift his spirits.
2. Show appreciation for his efforts.
Even the little things he does—like taking out the rubbish or making you a cup of tea—deserve recognition. A quick “Thanks for doing that, love” lets him know his efforts don’t go unnoticed. Feeling valued makes anyone stand a little taller.
3. Support his hobbies.
Whether he’s into football, painting, or assembling model trains, showing interest in his passions can mean the world to him. Even if you’re not into the same things, asking questions or cheering him on shows you care. That kind of support boosts both his confidence and your bond.
4. Laugh at his jokes (even the bad ones).
Okay, not every joke is going to be a winner, but giving him a chuckle—even a polite one—goes a long way. Laughter is a great way to build connection, and knowing he can make you smile boosts his confidence in himself and his sense of humour.
5. Encourage his dreams.
Big or small, dreams matter, and having someone who believes in you makes chasing them easier. If he’s talking about starting a side hustle or running a marathon, let him know you’re rooting for him. Your belief in his abilities can be a game-changer.
6. Celebrate his successes.
From landing a promotion to making the perfect Sunday roast, celebrate the wins, no matter the size. A simple “Well done!” or an enthusiastic toast at dinner lets him know you see and value his accomplishments. It’s these moments of acknowledgment that build confidence over time.
7. Compliment his appearance.
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to assume men don’t care about how they look, but they appreciate compliments just as much as anyone else. Whether it’s his sharp suit or his favourite hoodie, letting him know he looks good reminds him he’s still got it.
8. Be his biggest fan.
Source: Unsplash In public or private, showing him you’re proud to be by his side does wonders for his confidence. Brag about him to your friends or just give him a cheeky “You’re amazing, you know that?” when it’s just the two of you. Knowing you’re in his corner gives him a confidence boost that lasts.
9. Let him take the lead sometimes.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s planning a weekend outing or choosing the takeaway, giving him the chance to take charge can be empowering. It’s not about traditional roles; it’s about letting him feel confident in his decisions and contributions to your shared life.
10. Ask for his advice.
Everyone likes to feel knowledgeable, and asking for his opinion shows that you value his input. Whether it’s about career decisions or choosing new curtains, showing that you trust his perspective reinforces his confidence in himself.
11. Share your admiration openly.
Don’t keep your admiration bottled up—let him hear it! Whether you love how kind he is to strangers or how he handles tough situations, telling him directly builds his self-esteem. It’s these little affirmations that can brighten his day and keep his confidence strong.
12. Give him space when he needs it.
Sometimes, confidence comes from having time to recharge or work through things independently. Letting him have a quiet moment without taking it personally shows you trust him to handle life’s challenges. That trust reinforces his confidence in himself.
13. Remind him of his achievements.
When he’s feeling down, gently remind him of all the times he’s succeeded. Whether it’s overcoming a tough situation or smashing a goal, reflecting on past wins helps him see what he’s capable of. Confidence often grows from remembering what you’ve already accomplished.
14. Encourage him to take care of himself.
Sometimes confidence is tied to how we feel physically. Encouraging him to exercise, eat well, or just relax when he’s overworked shows you care about his well-being. Feeling good in his own skin will naturally boost his confidence.
15. Laugh with him, not at him.
Sharing a laugh together is a great way to connect, but be mindful of when teasing might go too far. Playful banter is fine, but making him the butt of the joke too often can chip away at his confidence. Keep the laughter kind and inclusive.
16. Be patient when he’s struggling.
Confidence can waver during tough times, and showing patience rather than frustration helps immensely. Reassure him that everyone has ups and downs and that you’re there to support him no matter what. That sense of stability can help him rebuild his confidence.
17. Show him love in his love language.
Whether he feels loved through words, touch, acts of service, or gifts, tailoring your support to his love language can make all the difference. When he feels truly understood and cared for, his confidence will naturally grow stronger.
