Men make themselves visible in all sorts of ways.
Some time ago, I presented a workshop at the Melbourne Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expo.
17 years earlier I attended this same event as a new dad.
At that time most men were hiding at the back of the hall!
They were sat in the café holding bags or boxes of goodies, supping a latte, checking their bank balance as their expectant partner roamed the stalls.
This time thousands showed up enthusiastically.
Sure, some guys had dazed looks absorbing the hundreds of services, products and toys on display.
Others were engaged with fresh-faced exhibitors being seduced by their discounts and hype.
There were men talking animatedly with stallholders, carrying their newborns, testing out the latest all-terrain strollers, taking their young ones to the animal enclosure and popping along to the workshops.
Then there were those who attended my workshop.
Showing up.
These guys listened, talked and made notes.
They focused on how to become engaged, involved, active fathers and partners.
They reflected on hopes and dreams for their pregnancy, birth and relationship moving forward into parenthood.
In todays world guys are more visible and present. They show up for their kids, their partners and for themselves.
Relationships
Men who are visible in their relationship do so when they are present, expressive, playful, caring and interested in the lives of their partner.
Men also influence the depth of intimacy with their partner by sharing their thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, fears and vulnerabilities.
Family
Today’s dad is no longer just the breadwinner and disciplinarian in the family.
He can be single or married; employed or stay-at home; gay or straight; an adoptive or step-parent.
Men who show their affection and increased involvement in their kids lives significantly influence their children’s social and emotional development.
There are many other areas of life where men show up including their work, community, faith and sporting activities.
The Best Version
The most powerful way for men to show up in the world is when they aim to become the best version of themselves.
Here’s a guide:
