The Masculinity Manifesto

“Never forget, it’s now your job to put yourself out of work.” That’s the uncomfortable truth about leadership so many men are unwilling to acknowledge—that it isn’t about leading perpetually. In fact, if your people (family, friends, colleagues, coworkers, etc.) cannot function without you there, you are the antithesis of a leader, not the embodim

If you’re afraid that someone might replace you or that your children might forget you, you’re operating from a place of scarcity, and you will never realize your full potential as a husband, father, business owner, and/or community leader. In fact, if this describes you, not only are you not a leader, but you are an anti-leader, more concerned wit

Anger and hostility do not garner influence. Resist the temptation to resort to them at all costs. Lashing out at a player, child, employee, wife, etc., is emotional (more on that later), and it does not foster commitment. It may foster compliance, but certainly not commitment.

Consider that maybe the reason you are unhappy is because the world around you is so great, and you have no challenge to push against. Also consider what meaningful pain you would be willing to endure if it meant a life of fulfillment. Then, get to work in all ways of making yourself capable of bearing it.

Here’s the truth: everyone wants to be a leader; few are willing to lead.

To build mental fortitude, you’re going to have to move your chicken list to the front of your task stack. Ask that woman you’ve been eyeing out on a date. Have that difficult conversation with your son or daughter. Ask your wife about your performance as a husband. Ask for a promotion. Call a potential new client. Say yes to something you would no

Leadership has never been about putting yourself above others. In front of others? Possibly. Above others? Never. Pedestals and leadership don’t mix. This is why so many men in positions of authority fall into the trap of “imposter syndrome.” I know. I’ve been there. I’ve been tasked with a job, assignment, or project that I felt completely unquali

But there is a problem. There’s another, often unrecognizable force at play: the natural man. The natural man is the weaker, lesser, more pathetic version of yourself. The natural man wants the results without the effort. He’ll lie, cheat, and steal if he can get away with it. He’s lazy, cowardly, selfish, and seeks immediate gratification.

As you’re leading, ask yourself the following questions: “What am I trying to accomplish?” “What do others need from me?” “What is the best way to give people what they need and help us all win?”