It’s Time for Change
Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many – the infamous “man up” culture and its undeniable side effects on men’s mental health. We’re exploring why telling guys to toughen up might be doing more harm than good.
The Problem with “Boys Don’t Cry”
From the moment little Johnny scrapes his knee and gets told, “Boys don’t cry,” we’re setting him up for a lifetime of emotional repression. Fast forward to adulthood, and we’ve got a society that expects men to shoulder everything without a peep. Guess what? That’s a recipe for a mental health disaster.
The Myth of Unshakeable Stoicism
Let’s debunk a myth right now – being emotional doesn’t make you weak. It takes serious strength to face your feelings head-on. The “man up” mantra implies that vulnerability equals fragility, and that’s just plain wrong. Real strength lies in acknowledging and addressing what’s going on inside.
Why It’s Okay Not to “Man Up”
Newsflash: guys have feelings too! Telling someone to “man up” dismisses the very real struggles they might be facing. It’s like slapping a band-aid on a bullet wound – it doesn’t fix a thing. Instead, let’s create a space where men feel comfortable opening up without fearing judgment or the dreaded eye roll.
A lot of our clients were brought up with a Father who came from the generation of ‘when men were men’ but this is so unhealthy. With this mindset, habits and belief systems can show up in your daily life whether you realise it or not. Do you think that crying is weak? Do you hide your feelings in fear of vulnerability and weakness? Would you speak with your friends about how you feel or are your relationships built off banter and pints?
We like to use the coffee test. Have a look at your closest circle and ask yourself if you would meet these people on a Sunday morning for a coffee and a chat, not just on a Friday night for drinks after work – is the answer no? Something to think about…
Talk the Talk, Walk the Walk
Now, we’re not saying spill your guts to every Tom, Dick, and Harry on the street. But having a genuine conversation with a friend, family member, or professional can be a game-changer. Our coaching services are here to help you navigate those waters. We’re not about fixing you; we’re about guiding you to be the man you’re capable of being.
Listening > Fixing
Guys, when someone opens up to you, resist the urge to play superhero and fix everything. Sometimes, they just need a listening ear, not a problem solver. Let’s be real – not all problems have quick solutions, and that’s okay. Being there for each other is often the best remedy.
We often think that fixing and rescuing is the answer, but it’s not what’s always needed. Don’t try to offer advice unless it’s asked for.
Healing the Boy to Empower the Man
Our coaching services aren’t about making you fit into some stereotypical mould of masculinity. We’re here to help heal the wounds society might have inflicted on the boy within. It’s about embracing your true self, emotions and all, and empowering you to become the best version of the man you want to be.
Let’s Redefine “Man Up”
So, here’s the deal: let’s scrap the “man up” nonsense. It’s time to redefine what it means to be a man – one who is strong, not because he suppresses emotions, but because he faces them head-on. It’s a journey, not an overnight fix, but trust us, the freedom that comes with embracing your authentic self is worth it.
Here’s to breaking the silence and fostering a culture where men can be vulnerable, talk openly, and support each other without judgment. It’s time to rewrite the script and create a world where being a man means being true to yourself.
Team A-Game
