Big Boys Don’t Cry, Real Men Do

‘Real men don’t cry’. 

It's one of those sayings that has been deeply embedded in our culture, tied to the traditional notions of what it means to be a man. From a young age, we're told that men should keep their emotions in check, stand firm in tough situations, and present an unyielding facade of toughness. It's almost as if we've carried this directive as a badge of honour, a symbol of our strength.

However, in recent times, the landscape of gender stereotypes has shifted, and our awareness of mental well-being has grown. These changes are challenging the long-standing narrative. The roles we used to think were set in stone are shifting, and we're waking up to the idea that maybe this old notion isn't the best way to go about things.

Emotions are the very essence of our human journey. From the brightest joy to the deepest sorrow, from fiery anger to the gentlest love, they are what makes us inherently human. Refusing ourselves the ability to express these feelings is akin to closing the door on a vital part of who we are, like trying to paint a masterpiece with only half the palette at our disposal.

The concept that real men should be impervious to feelings can cause significant harm, particularly when it comes to mental well-being. The statistics speak volumes: male suicide rates often surpass those of females. Part of this reality can be attributed to the societal pressure that insists men should remain strong in the face of emotional struggles.

However, strength is not found in concealing emotions; it emerges from the courage to acknowledge and navigate them. Far from diminishing one’s masculinity, it enriches it with a heightened authenticity and self-awareness. When a man chooses to openly express his emotions, he is not simply showing vulnerability; he's demonstrating a profound understanding of his inner world and practising healthy masculinity. This ability to connect on a deeply authentic level with others is a sign of immense strength.

Imagine a world in which men are encouraged to share their challenges, where reaching out for help is seen as an act of bravery rather than weakness. It's a vision that could lead to a more compassionate and empathetic society.

We won't sugarcoat it – shifting this old narrative is not an easy journey. It's a collective effort, one that involves dismantling outdated norms, battling the proponents of toxic masculinity, and building a culture that respects and celebrates emotional intelligence. Encouraging young men to explore healthy masculinity traits, and teaching them that it's perfectly okay to shed tears, to feel deeply, and to communicate their inner truths.

Let’s rethink the phrase ‘real men don’t cry’. 

Because real men do cry – not out of weakness, but out of strength, wisdom, and a deep connection to their humanity.