9 Ways to Make Your Man Feel Like a Man

Three simple words made me realize I needed to rethink how I treated my husband: 

– “What about me?”

We were in the middle of an argument when he said, “You do an amazing job managing the finances and making decisions, but sometimes I feel like I don’t even have a say. I’m at the bottom of the list. What about me? How can I contribute? Who am I?”

It hit me hard, but he was right.

As women, we juggle so much – being great moms, reliable friends, career-driven professionals. 

In the midst of it all, our husbands often end up as an afterthought. Sometimes, we even treat them like another child simply because it’s easier to stay in “mom mode.”

But here’s the truth: your husband craves your respect and admiration. 

That doesn’t mean you’re any less important – it simply means recognizing that making him feel like a man strengthens your relationship. 

So, how do you do it? Here are some practical ways that have worked for me.

1. Seek His Advice

Many women make all the household decisions – choosing schools, home décor, and even which streaming service to subscribe to – without consulting their husbands. 

We assume they don’t care, but the reality is, they want to be included.

Show your husband that you respect his opinions by asking for his advice and genuinely listening. 

Don’t just nod along and then do things your way – he’ll catch on quickly. Instead, take his input seriously and let him know his thoughts matter.

2. Pay Attention to His Preferences

I can’t count how many times I’ve brought home bread my husband doesn’t like. Every time, he reminds me, “You got the one with seeds again.” Yet, somehow, I keep forgetting!

Think about how special you feel when your husband remembers something small you mentioned in passing and surprises you with it. 

He feels the same way. Paying attention to his likes and dislikes shows that you care – and it will encourage him to do the same for you.

(For the record, my husband now does all the grocery shopping… problem solved!)

3. Brag About Him

Everyone loves to feel appreciated, and men are no different. A simple, sincere compliment about something your husband did – especially in front of others – can boost his confidence.

Find opportunities to highlight his strengths. For example, my husband is incredibly handy. When a friend asked about attaching a bike rack to their car, I immediately said, “Oh, my husband will figure it out – he’s amazing at stuff like that!” His smile said it all.

4. Understand His Work Life

Many men feel undervalued at work, struggling with stress and self-doubt. You can be the person who reminds him of his worth.

Instead of complaining about his long hours or work frustrations, take an interest in his job. Ask about his projects, his coworkers, or his goals. 

If he’s unhappy at work, help him see why what he does is valuable. Your support can make all the difference in how he views himself and his career.

5. Really Listen to Him

This isn’t about blind obedience – it’s about giving his ideas genuine consideration. Instead of automatically dismissing his opinions, pause and really listen.

By valuing his perspective, you’re showing him that his thoughts and decisions matter in your shared life.

For a deeper look into how traditional gender roles can shape the way we listen and respond in relationships, check out our article Born a Girl, Raised to Obey: The Weight of a Toxic Tradition.

6. Express Verbal Appreciation (Often!)

Would you rather spend time with someone who never acknowledges your efforts or someone who regularly makes you feel appreciated? Your husband feels the same way.

Try this: don’t let 48 hours pass without thanking him for something. It could be for fixing something, helping with the kids, or just being supportive. Small, frequent appreciation adds up.

7. Use Nonverbal Communication

Your words matter, but so does how you say them.

Compare these two:

• “Please, tell me what you think.” (said warmly, with eye contact and a smile)
• “Please, tell me what you think.” (said with sarcasm, an eye roll, and crossed arms)

Same words, completely different meaning. Be mindful of your tone and body language to ensure they match your intent.

8. Support His Goals

Your husband has dreams – some he may not even openly share. Pay attention to his actions and casual comments, as they often hint at his personal ambitions.

Whether it’s career growth, a hobby, or a new fitness goal, be his biggest cheerleader. Attend his work events, show up for his games, and encourage him when he’s feeling discouraged. Your support fuels his drive.

9. Say “I’m Sorry” When Necessary

It’s never easy to admit when we’re wrong. But brushing off mistakes with a casual “Sorry” won’t cut it.

If you’ve hurt your husband, acknowledge it sincerely and ask for forgiveness. Strong relationships aren’t about never making mistakes – they’re about resolving conflicts with love and respect.

When you start showing your husband admiration and respect, something incredible happens: he becomes the man you always knew he could be. 

In turn, he’ll treat you with the same love and appreciation.

And let me tell you – my husband? He’s a hell of a man!

Explore Real Stories, Begin Your Own Quest

If any part of this resonated with you – if you’ve ever wondered how to truly support the man in your life, how to move beyond toxic patterns, or how to stop carrying it all alone – you’re not just reading this for curiosity. You’re here because you’re ready for something deeper.

Heroes’ Stories is where we begin that deeper understanding. It’s more than a blog – it’s a space filled with real voices, hard-earned wisdom, and honest conversations about what it means to love, to hurt, and to heal. 

You’ll find stories of men and women alike, navigating identity, masculinity, and the unseen wounds we carry.

But if you’re ready to take the leap – not just learn, but live the change – then Chaptly is your invitation. Chaptly is the world’s first gamified toxic abuse recovery program for individuals of all ages.

This 90-day immersive journey guides you through powerful storytelling, practical reflection, and gentle transformation. 

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This is your moment to say: “I don’t want to repeat the same cycles.”

Join the waitlist today and be first to access life-shifting tools, guided quests, and a community of brave humans rewriting their stories.

Because understanding a man starts with understanding ourselves.

And healing? It starts with one honest step forward.

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