Talk to him about the one thing since childhood that he is very proud of
Everybody has ups and downs in their life. Facing difficulties is a compulsion for every living being. Although the number of difficulties or the challenges will vary from person to person, it could be something as qualifying a simple test or securing a seat in their desired university. It could be getting a job at their dream company or getting a promotion. Whatever it may be, asking him about it, it will make him feel proud and instantly happy. His proudest moment is something that will be very close to his heart and it would mean the world to him that you cared enough to ask him about it.
The Wall