Men who truly support women’s success often display these 7 underrated habits

Farley Ledgerwood by Farley Ledgerwood | February 5, 2025, 3:33 am

My father always said, “Behind every successful woman, there is a tribe of other successful people who have her back.”

And boy, was he right!

Supportive men play a crucial role in shaping the success stories of many accomplished women.

From encouraging their ambitions to celebrating their triumphs, these men often exhibit certain distinctive behaviors – habits that often fly under the radar, yet are undeniably influential.

So, you may be wondering, “What are these habits that truly supportive men display?”

Short on time? No problem. I’ve distilled it down to seven underrated habits that men who genuinely champion women’s success tend to exhibit.

The subsequent piece will delve into these habits, shedding light on how they contribute to fostering an environment where women thrive.

Whether you are a man looking to better support the women in your life or a woman seeking to identify these traits in your circle, this piece will serve as an enlightening read.

Remember: Change starts from within.

By recognizing and adopting these habits, we can collectively pave the way for more equitable and prosperous societies worldwide.

And hey, isn’t that what we all want at the end of the day?

1) They listen more than they speak

It’s an underrated skill, really.

Listening.

Active, intentional, focused listening.

It’s not just about nodding your head while a woman shares her dreams or vents about her day.

It’s about truly understanding her perspective, engaging in meaningful conversation, and offering valuable feedback when appropriate.

Men who genuinely support women’s success are often excellent listeners.

They understand that every idea, every concern, and every aspiration holds immense value.

They provide a safe space for women to express themselves without fear of judgment or interruption.

In doing so, they empower women to be their authentic selves and to pursue their ambitions with confidence.

And isn’t that the kind of support we all could use?

2) They champion their accomplishments

Here’s a personal story that I think perfectly illustrates this point.

Growing up, my brother and I were raised to believe in the power of mutual support.

Our parents taught us that celebrating each other’s victories was just as important as achieving our own.

I remember when I got my first article published online. I was over the moon, but also a little uncertain.

Was it any good? Would people like my style of writing?

My brother, an accomplished engineer himself, was the first one to share my article on his social media, proudly announcing to his friends about my achievement.

He didn’t stop there. He also made it a point to leave a comment, appreciating specific points that he liked in the article.

His genuine gesture of celebrating my accomplishment boosted my confidence significantly.

It made me feel seen, validated, and most importantly – supported.

And that’s what men who truly support women do. They amplify their achievements, ensuring they get the recognition they deserve.

They understand that every success, big or small, is worth celebrating.

After all, isn’t it more fulfilling when our victories are celebrated with those who genuinely care for us?

3) They allow space for growth

Listen, no one is perfect.

We all have our strengths and areas for improvement.

And sometimes, in our quest to support and protect the ones we care about, we may unintentionally become a roadblock in their path to self-growth.

Let me explain.

Men who genuinely support women’s success understand the importance of giving them room to grow.

They don’t rush in to solve every problem or cushion every fall. Instead, they stand beside them, providing guidance when asked and silence when needed.

Yes, silence.

Because sometimes, the most supportive thing you can do is step back and let them figure things out on their own terms.

It’s about respecting their capability to handle situations, make decisions, and learn from their experiences.

Here’s the truth: Being supportive doesn’t always mean being involved.

Sometimes, it means having the courage to take a step back and allowing them the space to grow and learn.

After all, isn’t personal growth a vital aspect of success?

4) They challenge stereotypes

Let’s face it.

We live in a society riddled with stereotypes – stereotypes that often undermine women’s capabilities and hinder their progress.

But men who genuinely support women’s success? They’re not afraid to challenge these stereotypes.

They don’t subscribe to outdated notions of gender roles. They understand that women are just as capable, if not more, in any field or aspect of life.

They encourage women to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal norms.

They stand up against discrimination and bias, promoting fairness and equality in all areas.

They’re the ones saying, “You want to be an astronaut? Go for it!” or “You want to start your own business? I believe in you!”

By challenging stereotypes, they help create a more inclusive and equitable environment where women can truly thrive.

Because isn’t that what true support is all about? Creating opportunities for success, regardless of gender.

5) They practice empathy

Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

Seems simple enough, right?

Wrong.

True empathy goes beyond just understanding someone else’s perspective.

It’s about experiencing their emotions as if they were your own.

Research indicates that the human brain actually changes when we practice empathy.

Our neurons “mirror” the emotions of others, allowing us to feel what they’re feeling.

Men who genuinely support women’s success often exhibit a high degree of empathy.

They listen, understand, and share in their joys, struggles, and everything in between.

They don’t merely offer sympathy – they empathize.

They put themselves in the shoes of the women they support, offering comfort, understanding, and compassion when it’s needed most.

Because at the end of the day, isn’t understanding and sharing in someone else’s experience a fundamental part of being supportive?

6) They express their belief in her abilities

Sometimes, all it takes is a little faith.

Believing in someone can have a profound impact on their confidence and self-esteem.

It’s like a spark that can ignite a fire of determination and ambition.

Men who genuinely support women’s success often express their belief in the women they support.

They reassure them of their capabilities, even when they may doubt themselves.

I like to think of it as being a mirror that reflects back the strength, intelligence, and potential that they see in them.

They’re there saying, “I believe in you,” not just with their words but with their actions too.

Because sometimes, a simple expression of belief can make all the difference.

It can shatter self-doubt, inspire courage, and pave the way for success.

After all, doesn’t everyone deserve to have someone who believes in them?

7) They respect their independence

At the heart of it all, there lies one fundamental trait.

Respect for their independence.

Men who truly stand behind women’s success understand the importance of respecting their autonomy.

They acknowledge that women are individuals capable of making their own choices and decisions.

They don’t try to control or dictate their paths. Instead, they respect their journey, their choices, and their right to self-determination.

Because true support stems from a place of respect – respect for their abilities, their dreams, and above all, their independence.

Final thoughts

If you identify with these habits, congratulations – you’re one of those rare gems who genuinely supports women’s success.

But remember, it’s a continuous journey.

Each day presents a new opportunity to learn, grow, and better exemplify these traits.

Keep questioning societal norms. Keep challenging stereotypes.

Keep listening, empathizing, and expressing your belief in their abilities. And most importantly, keep respecting their independence.

Because your actions create ripple effects. They inspire others to follow suit and foster an environment where everyone thrives.

Take a moment to reflect on these habits. Are there areas you can improve? Are there ways you can further empower the women in your life?

It’s about progress, not perfection.

And as the saying goes, “Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful people who have her back.”

Let’s strive to be part of that tribe. Let’s continue to hold space for women’s success.

Because when we lift each other up, we all rise together.