I used to think being a well-rounded man was impossible for me. I was too quick to anger. I often prioritised the wrong things and unwittingly said the first thing that came into my head.
Family, work, fitness, and personal growth! It feels like it’s a lot, and I sometimes felt like I was failing as a human.
I still do sometimes.
But here’s the truth: you don’t need to perfect everything overnight or all at once.
You have to accept that it’s not going to happen like that. The trick is making progress in small, manageable steps, staying committed, being consistent and practising discipline.
You start by taking control of your daily habits. One of the most life-changing tools I’ve ever gained is the Magic Pause from the Swearing Project. It’s a simple practice inspired by Stoicism that helps you pause before reacting. Pausing to choose your words is super conscious at first. However, it ensures you approach every challenge calmly and deliberately.
Imagine how different your life would be if you could consciously pause before responding to stressful situations — no anger, no impulsive decisions, just calm, collected action.
Yes! You will feel the initial burst of anger, fear, disappointment or resentment. It will explode from your core as your lizard brain kicks into fight, flight or freeze mode. But, by not swearing and pausing to choose your words, you will start to react in a completely different way. A way you have chosen. A more human and deliberate way. A better way.
A well-rounded man is like a rock thrown into a pond; his actions ripple through his family and community, impacting far beyond what he sees.
I’m writing this for the men today and for the men in your life. What if you could be a well-rounded man? It’s possible no matter where you’re starting from. One step at a time, you can.
Start by identifying the areas in your life that need balance, and work from there.
This week, let’s focus on staying curious and disciplined — even when life throws a curveball.
Here’s a link to The Swearing Project so you can start making those ripples today.
