Is it difficult being a man in today's world?

Now, the answer to this question might be quite subjective, and of course, there are going to be rules and exceptions. For example, men in Ukraine and Russian might argue that they have it harder than the retired men in the south of France given they are being called up for war and are required to fight for their family, for their country and maybe even for a political reason they don't understand or agree with... But, broadly speaking, it seems that the world is shifting and the expectations of male masculinity have shifted considerably, leaving men confused about their place.

I've recently discovered ChatGPT (another aspect of the world that's changed so many things, but I digress). I really enjoy asking ChapGPT questions to test its capability and understanding of 'things' but more so, to see how it sees. I asked it the question - "Is it difficult being a man in today's world" and I personally thought the answers were quite profound and resonated with me...

The platform presented me with the following points:-

Changing Expectations of Masculinity

• Traditional notions of masculinity, such as being stoic, strong, and the primary provider, are evolving. Men are increasingly encouraged to be emotionally open, to express their feelings and to be more vulnerable.

Mental Health Stigma

• Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, often due to societal expectations to "tough it out." This can lead to isolation, depression, and even higher rates of suicide among men.

  
  

Redefined Roles

• Gender roles are shifting, with men navigating new dynamics in relationships, careers, and parenting. Balancing these expectations can create pressure, particularly when traditional role models no longer align with modern realities.

Body Image and Fitness Pressures

• Social media and societal ideals can foster insecurities about body image and physical fitness, which were historically less emphasized for men.

Work-Life Balance

• Expectations to excel in careers while also being present at home can be overwhelming. Achieving a healthy balance between professional and personal life remains a challenge for many.

Navigating Relationships

• Dating, marriage, and friendships come with complex dynamics. Men may struggle with expressing emotions or establishing meaningful connections due to ingrained habits or fear of judgment.

Perceived Decline of Male Influence

• Some men feel alienated by movements that address historical gender imbalances, viewing them as a critique rather than a necessary recalibration. This perception can contribute to feelings of defensiveness or disconnection.

  
  

Ironically, I feel that point 1 and 2 are in contradiction with each other which is inline with how society sees men. How can a man be more emotionally open, but also be expected to "tough it out"? Are men still expected to be the 'bread winner' and does society judge if they're not?

How vulnerable is too vulnerable?

Is it toxic to want to provide for a woman or is that just an outdated concept now?

Should we have a larger physical presence or is that deemed as intimidating and aggressive?

Is it okay to cry... but not too much?

While these challenges are very real, do they present opportunities for growth? Has it created a community for men to come together? Every November, I raise and donate money to 'Movember' a mens' mental health charity (that runs all year) that looks to raise awareness for mens' mental health, male suicide and prostate cancer - did these communities exist 10 years ago, 15 years ago... and if they did, were you aware of them?

Do we need to 'man up' or do we simple need to know when and how to?

Has today's world created imbalance and confusion?

I'm still working on the answer.