In the heart of every man beats the spirit of a Lion. Just like the Lion stands tall in the vast savannahs, proudly surveying his territory, so too do you have an inherent domain – your life, your family, and your responsibilities.
You are not just someone who just provides, nor a fleeting title. You are a key part of the heartbeat of your family. However, sometimes the weight of the world on your shoulders diminishes all of that.
Well, I am here to remind you that there is a hero in you, even when the mirror does not reflect it.
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” ~ Albert Einstein.
In the vast chaos of life, where family, work, and societal expectations merge, it is easy to lose yourself. Even after everything you have ever been through, sometimes you will experience brief but regular periods of feeling diminished, as if the core of your identity has been lost.
Well….this is not the end. This in fact, is a pivotal moment….a turning point in your life.
You want and deserve respect, connection, joy, and most importantly value form your wife and kids. But instead, you feel disrespected, played and like an outsider.
When was the last time you looked in the mirror and truly connected with the man in the mirror? The man who has dreams, passions, fears, and immense love to give. The man who deserves joy in every breath and step.
The solutions to all your problems lie within you. The respect, value and love you want begins with the authentic connection with yourself. And for men, especially middle-aged men, this is confronting and hence not actioned with integrity and honesty with thyself. In other words, most middle-aged men would rather go to the hardware store and get a bag of cement and simply harden the f#$k up! It is unfortunate that the most important changes in life are typically made as a result of hitting “rock-bottom”; reactive, rather than proactive.
So, here are some ways to shift this old-school way of thinking:
1. Speak Your Truth
Time for a confession! Showing vulnerability is one of the highest forms of courage. It is incorrect to believe that men should not disclose their feelings. Talk about your feelings and begin with yourself. Acknowledging is the first step on the path to discovery and not a sign of failure.
2. Embrace Self-compassion
Make a note of the three things you accomplished that day before going to bed and before you brush your teeth in front of the mirror each night. Honour your accomplishments, regardless of how minor they may appear. It is not about glory, but more about realising your own worth and importance. By doing this every day, you will plant the seeds of self-worth, which will grow into a self-respecting “tree.”
3. Connect Beyond Roles
Your family loves you, not just for the support you provide but for who you are. Set aside moments where you just connect – no judgments, no roles. Be it a walk with your spouse or a games night with your kids. Let them see the man behind the ‘titles’. More often than not, they’re yearning for that connection too.
However, the true empowering connection on the journey of discovery begins with self-love. Feeling valued starts with valuing yourself. The world’s perception of you changes when your perception of yourself does. It is as simple as that!
Feeling like just a provider is confining, so invite yourself to break free from that. Recognise that you bring so much more to the table. You bring love, laughter, wisdom, experience, and resilience. Your worth is not determined by how much money you bring home or how many hours you work. Your worth is determined by the depth of your true, authentic heart and the strength of your spirit.
It’s difficult, I know; I’ve been there! Sometimes life can feel like a stormy sea, unpredictable and turbulent. However, just remember that you are the anchor for yourself and your family in the heart of that tornado.
Reconnect with yourself – the Lionheart Leader within. You do have the courage to embrace self-love, pursue self-worth, and cultivate confidence. You have the opportunity to take back your power and shine as the outstanding gentleman you have always been—not just as a provider.
It is also important to know that you are not alone., you are not alone on this journey. As you move forward with love and respect, stay connected and embrace every part of who you truly are in every gracious moment.
Your worth is immeasurable. Not because of what you do or provide, but simply because of who you are.
“In the heart of every man lies the strength of a lion, waiting to be awakened by self-love and purpose.”
Live Your Life Now
Sava
