Modern society teaches men to be out of touch with oneself. It tells them to suppress the inner man and be weak. “Comply, follow the rules, don’t be a trouble, don’t be toxic, your wants are bad, your opinion is wrong, think like we think, we know better, you should do this, you should want that”. This programming starts in childhood by overprotecting parents and continues by the institutions and government that wants a predictable and obedient person. When that man eventually breaks down, the only option left is to talk to a therapist. Society tells men to hide their true selves, be out of touch with their inner core, and ultimately be weak.

I ask you to be vulnerable instead. Being vulnerable doesn’t mean just crying and telling your sob stories, although sometimes it does. Being vulnerable means being open to people and the world. Tell what you think is true, do what you think is right, even if the majority disagrees. Ask for what you need even if you are afraid of rejection, tell a dumb joke that you like, dress however you prefer, start a hobby, ask a girl out, express your feelings, have an opinion. Sing, dance, write, play even if you don’t know how.

People hide their true selves, fearing rejection and criticism. They undervalue themselves, assuming others undervalue them too. This fear often isn’t grounded in reality. But even if it is, you must choose: they or you. You may loose someone but you will gain yourself. You will gain your integrity back. You will learn yourself. Who you truly are and what is your values.

Once you open up and stop conforming to others you, actually, get more appealing. People are attracted to sincerity and flaws much more than to perfection. More than that, you start building quality relationships because you attract people who appreciate you as you are.

Being vulnerable and revealing yourself to the world is scary, which means you should do it. Fear is mens greatest enemy. By being vulnerable you become accustomed to it, and learn to act in spite of it.

”A warrior is not about perfection, or victory, or invulnerability. It’s about absolute vulnerability. That’s the only true courage”

Socrates - Peaceful Warrior 2006

This is what “being yourself” means. Accept who you are and don’t hide it from others. Penetrate the world, let your personality shine, and remember, don’t take yourself too seriously.