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👋 Welcome Back to Thrive

Each week, we challenge the old rulebook and explore what it means to heal, grow, and embrace a healthier version of masculinity. This week, we’re digging into a myth that’s shaped generations:

what it really means to be a man.

1️⃣ Teachable Insight: Deconstructing the Masculinity Myth

The traditional definition of masculinity has long been built on a narrow, outdated model: be tough, be stoic, be dominant.

From childhood, boys are taught to “man up,” suppress emotion, never show weakness, and measure their worth by external markers—status, strength, and control.

But this model of masculinity isn’t just outdated—it’s harmful. It’s linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide in men.

In fact, studies from the American Psychological Association show that adherence to rigid masculine norms is correlated with poorer mental health outcomes and reluctance to seek help.

The truth is, masculinity isn’t the problem—the myth of masculinity is. 

Real strength isn’t about suppression. It’s about self-awareness.

It’s about owning your story, understanding your emotional world, and having the courage to grow beyond the labels that were never truly yours.

In the workplace, the cost of this myth is equally staggering. It leads to emotional disconnection, poor communication, burnout, and an environment where psychological safety is absent.

When leaders model vulnerability and self-awareness, it not only creates healthier teams—it drives performance, innovation, and retention.

Redefining masculinity isn’t just personal healing—it’s cultural leadership.

2️⃣ Key Takeaways

1. You Don’t Have to Fit the Mold: Masculinity isn’t one-dimensional. It's not limited to toughness, stoicism, or dominance. True masculinity allows room for emotion, empathy, nurturing, and introspection.

2. Redefining Manhood Requires Intentional Unlearning: Challenging internalized beliefs takes time. But it’s a necessary step toward building a healthier, fuller identity—and creating better relationships, workplaces, and lives.

3️⃣ Your Next Steps: Reflect, Act, Grow

1. Spot the Scripts:
List 3 phrases or beliefs you were taught about what it means to “be a man.” Where did they come from? How do they show up in your life today?

2. Reframe It:
Take one of those beliefs and rewrite it in a way that aligns with a healthier, fuller definition of masculinity. For example, “Real men don’t cry” becomes “Real men own their emotions.”

3. Start a Conversation:
Open up to one friend, colleague, or family member this week about a time you felt pressure to conform. Vulnerability opens doors to connection—and change.

Closing Thought:

The world doesn’t need more men hiding behind masks of strength.
It needs more men courageous enough to be seen, heard, and felt.

You’re not failing if you question the version of masculinity you were handed—
You’re evolving.

True masculinity is not about power over others…
It’s about power within.

Keep growing. Keep questioning. Keep showing up.
The man you’re becoming is far greater than the myth you’re shedding.

P.S.

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