"Stripped of the various masks of masculinity, we're free to be who we actually are. We can love. We can find our purpose. We can connect." - Lewis Howes
As a man living in modern society, we must maintain a certain stature, physically and mentally.
We must uphold an emotionless aura.
We must promote physical strength.
We must be aggressive and protective.
We do not speak about our feelings.
We do not shed any tears.
We are staunch, beer-drinking, wood-chopping, hairy-chested, bearded machines.
When we do not comply with these laws of manliness, there can only be one logical explanation.
We must not be real men.
All of these are outwardly-facing traits.
Facades.
'Hats' we are supposed to put on.
'Masks' we are supposed to wear.
How are men supposed to be pure when our identity with the male gender will be questioned?
How are men supposed to be real when we will be judged for being 'different'?
How are men supposed to live authentically when this burden of identity is shackled to us from birth?
All human beings, regardless of gender, have the right to pure, authentic expression.
Remove the societal masks.
Stop the act.
Break down the walls.
Ignore the negativity and judgement.
Honour yourself, truly.
Express yourself freely and authentically.
In my latest blog post, "Love. Authenticity. Expression.", I share the life-changing experience I had at FlowQuest 2018, Byron Bay, and how simply beautiful life truly is. If you'd like to read more about this amazing experience and the simple, but powerful, shift in perspective, see the full blog post!
Strive to live, live to strive.
Image C/O lewishowes.com