Seven Steps to Manliness
My suggestions for growing positive masculinity in your life.
I wanted to reclaim what it means to be ‘manly’, and get away from the narrow big-muscled macho associations that I grew up with, but which never fit me . Every man can be ‘manly’ in his own way, and these steps are available to everyone. Many may apply to women too, but in my mind there are some elements that reflect what’s unique about male physiology and psychology. I believe that being ‘manly’ in these ways can make any man attractive as an ally, a friend or a lover. They’re intended as suggestions for feeling happier and more confident, rather than a list of ‘shoulds’.
He thinks for himself and lives in a way that’s true to his values.
This for me is the starting point of manliness, and boils down to having ‘integrity’. Am I strong/brave enough to live according to my own beliefs and truth and put them into action rather than trying to fit with someone else’s — or society’s — idea of what a hu-man ‘should’ be. Most of us fall short of this ideal, but growing into manliness is about taking daily steps in the right direction. One way to make that journey easier for me has been to join a men’s group where I have a bunch of trusted friends and allies to support and encourage me.
