🤍 Character & conduct between spouses · #199
Every time I praise my spouse it feels awkward and forced. How do I praise sincerely?
Sincere praise mentions something specific you genuinely noticed, not bland general praise. Instead of just saying ‘that's nice’, try ‘thank you for sorting out the children's school matter earlier, I'm relieved.’ Specific praise feels true because it shows you really were paying attention. Start with one honest compliment a day, about a small thing that usually goes unnoticed. Say it directly, not through someone else. Over time it stops feeling awkward because your eyes have been trained to look for your spouse's good, not their mistakes. See communication & emotions.