20 Masculine and Relatable Traits That Defy Stereotypes

What Makes A Man A Man? This is different from before. Learn how we have shifted from dominance and power to understanding and respect!

Traditionally and stereotypically, things like power, strength and lack of emotion are what make a man human. Although these things are not inherently masculine, they have defined masculinity for what seems like forever.

But just because a man can throw a punch or drink beer doesn’t mean he’s a true man. A true man has qualities that make him caring, kind and brave.

How have the things that make humans human changed?

Primitive man is generally defined by his brute strength, ability to provide for his family, generally disinterested conduct and assertiveness.

But just as gender doesn’t make the man, neither does his ability to refrain from showing emotions or win arm-wrestling matches. These days, many would argue that a man who hides his emotions is not a man at all.

Think about it, a father who never hugs his son and tells him that boys don’t cry has no such desire. However, a father allowing his son to express his feelings and find solutions through them is what makes a man a man.

The first way glorifies aggression, violence, continuation of the cycle of toxic masculinity, and misogyny.

These things often stem from a fear of being seen as feminine.

What Makes A Man A Man

Traditional masculinity today has nothing to do with what makes a man a man. Modern masculinity is a little different. This is better for people and their mental health, which has always and unfortunately been neglected.

But while we’ve been talking about what makes a man a man, we haven’t yet considered the specific traits of a real, true man. So, how can you recognize a true one?

1. He feels confident in his masculinity and sexuality

A real man doesn’t need reassurance that he is actually a real man. He knows who he is, and he is comfortable being that person regardless of the opinions of others.

He no longer needs to openly display his masculinity in order to feel confident in who he is. He neither shows off his muscles nor boasts about how many women he has slept with.

2. He respects women

What makes a man a man is his respect for women. And, we mean all women, not just his mother or sister.

He respects women he finds attractive and those he does not find attractive, and he is able to show respect to women of all ages. He does not belittle or sexually exploit women, nor does he believe that they need his help.

3. He is not afraid of losing power

It is a great thing to be able to give up power under any circumstances.

He can find it in himself to step down and let a woman have her say. He will loosen his grip on the room to allow others to have their say. A true man no longer needs to be the center of attention or control others.

4. He always offers to help

A true gentleman will always offer help, but he won’t assume you need it. He is a gentleman! He’ll open your door, help you up the stairs, and pull out your chair. But if you refuse his help, he won’t get defensive or angry. Whenever needed he will be there without any pressure.

He is helpful to mankind rather than only to womankind. If another person needs help, he will not hesitate to offer assistance.

5. He will call other men

It is so neglected yet so important.

You often hear women talk about horrible men who treat them badly, but you rarely hear a man talk about another man like this.

6. He believes in women

A true gentleman will believe a woman when she says she is uncomfortable, does not want to drink, has a boyfriend, has been assaulted, etc.

He won’t cross boundaries, use peer pressure, or try to seduce her. He will respect what he says without question, without requiring any proof, and without blaming.

7. Admit when he’s wrong

Men who still hold on to old ways of manhood have a serious problem with having trouble admitting defeat or wrongdoing.

8. He appreciates what others do for him

Many people do not realize their position in society. No matter what the reasoning, they are in more powerful positions than women, but it’s not for lack of women trying.

However, a true man will appreciate what got him to where he is. He will appreciate the women in his life and the women before him. He will appreciate those in the service industry and respect people of all levels because he has no grandiose ideas about being better than anyone else.

9. She is a feminist

But feminism is really about equality, and a true man knows this.

He knows that men and women deserve equal rights. And he knows that women deserve equal respect, equal opportunities and equal pay rates.

10. He can laugh at himself

A true man has humility. He can laugh at himself, and he doesn’t get embarrassed easily. He’s not defensive about jokes, nor does he take himself too seriously.

11. He’s always learning

A constant desire to continue learning is a true sign of manhood.

He listens and wants to know more, but no matter what he learns, he never thinks he’s the smartest person in the room. He is open to new experiences, never turns off second opinions and welcomes new information.

Most importantly, he never behaves like a know-it-all and will never point out someone else’s mistake with malice.

12. He admits his mistakes

He can accept his shortcomings. He is self-aware and willing to work on himself, and he does not proclaim that he is perfect.

Men who think about masculinity in its traditional context are always so rigid. They think they know what’s best, no matter the situation.

13. He keeps his word

What makes a person human is his ability to express his views. He will not make promises that he has no intention of keeping because he is true to himself, and he is always honest.

14. He enjoys responsibility

The traditional male ideal, which we already know, says that men should be proud of their hard work and responsibility, so not much has changed on this front.

A good person really enjoys being able to take care of their loved ones. He enjoys the responsibility of providing for his family, and he likes to know that he has put in effort and hard work to achieve his goals and make his family and friends proud.

15. He works on his mental health

It’s no secret that traditional masculinity taught boys that they couldn’t cry. If they were upset or worried, they were not allowed to show it. Anger seemed to be the only appropriate emotion for him to display.

However, now, knowing your feelings is healthy and encouraging.

More people than ever before are conscious of their thoughts and feelings, and more people than ever before are involved in therapy. Knowing how to be aware of your emotions and express them effectively is a great tool for anyone!

16. He nurtures beneficial relationships

Now, more than ever, we are more aware of the impact toxic relationships can have on a person.

They create exciting, rewarding, and stable relationships.

17. He cares about his physical health

This is one of those things that has pretty much always been true for guys, but it’s a little different than it used to be.

Historically, men have been associated with strength. The amount of muscle a man had was extremely important, so they tried to increase their muscle mass regularly. Now, it’s about much more than just muscles. That kind of strength no longer defines a person.

It is about overall physical well-being. They generally try to be more conscious about what they are putting into their bodies. They balance their exercise and pay more attention to their health in general.

18. He challenges himself

They are constantly looking for new ways to challenge themselves and get out of their comfort zone. He pushes himself to do more, know more and grow more.

He loves exploring new places and ideas, and pushing the boundaries of what he thinks he can do so he can gain benefits.

19. He respects everyone

A true gentleman is kind to his honor.

He respects every person without any bias. Modern men respect other men, women and children. He does not discriminate on the basis of gender, age or lifestyle.

20. He is ambitious

A person knows how to set goals and reach them. He is always on the path of self-improvement and will do whatever it takes to reach the end. He is not afraid of hard work or the time it takes because he has an inner desire to succeed.

There’s always more than one way to be manly, but these are definitely some solid bases! What makes a man a man is building on these stairs.