Can anyone suggest techniques to encourage a spouse to have better self esteem and confidence.

Many of the techniques on the site relate to self improvement. I know it is very difficult to change another person but there must be some way to encourage others to feel better about themselves.

Along similar lines (this maybe should be another post) what techniques can and should one use when raising ones children to ensure high self esteem and confidence in ones abilities.

Thanks for your help in advance, I have read many good articles and discussions on the forum.

Regards

Lawrence

In my opinion is it 2 major techniques to build self esteem and confidence.

1 goes on "you". This is said in general terms...I don't know anything about you...but since you ask and want a change...you have to be the leader.

It's very important that you give all parts of your family "praise" and "acknowledge" all the time. You have to be the supporter.
A wifes work is many times taken for "granted".

It's very important that she know that you are aware that housekeeping are a full time job and even more important then your job, even if you bring home the cash.
You might start to help, without her having the need to ask.
If the whole family manage to work like a group.... and you all know that all are depending on each other..... then this will build responsibility in the kids, build their self image,and make the bond stronger in all.
But it is important that you all are doing it together, and not as a imposed task...all have to feel they contribute....make a family gathering with pizza (or what the kids fancy)
once a week....change on the task....ask the kid what they them self think they can manage....let them be a part...give praise...never anything as granted.

For your wife I will also recommend that she start with Meditation and self development..many good books...this will give her more insight in herself....she will be much stronger as person and the whole family will benefit from it.  I know....My wife has done it

Good luck.

Thanks for the sound advice,

I am sure that you are 100% correct with your suggestions. I believe that i do often "Praise" and "acknowledge" her and the rest of the family. It is however a fine line between that and patronizing a person, which I believe would be totally counter productive.

I think that the most effective mechanism is what you have mentioned in conjunction with being around and being generally supportive. The problem is that working 9 hours a day and often at home at night does not lend itself to being around as much as I would like.

I will try some of the other techniques you mentioned.

Thanks for the suppoprt.

Regards

Lawrence