Men have lots of pressure on them. One is the pressure to step in and “be the hero.” What does it mean to be a hero? First let’s look closely at its definition.
A hero (masculine) or heroine (feminine) is a person or main character of a literary work who, in the face of danger, combats adversity through impressive feats of ingenuity, bravery or strength, often sacrificing his or her own personal concerns for some greater good. – from Wikipedia
Wow! Adversity, impressive feats of ingenuity, self-sacrificing for the greater good, these are big shoes to fill. Nobody should be asked to perform this way, whether they are male or female. It’s time to revisit the concept, give it a new inspiring meaning.
Heroes are needed
I am here to tell you that women do need heroes, not the self-sacrificing kind or the knight in shining armor but the man who is willing to show up for her and ignite her. I want you to know that men need heroines, not the castrating woman or the strong feminist who wrongs him at every corner but the one who can help bring out the best in him.
Being a hero is about exhibiting extraordinary selflessness and deliver more than is expected without agenda but the desire to make someone else’s life better.
Being a hero is expecting more of yourself and doing your best at all times.
We need to let go of the idea that we have to do it all on our own and can’t ask for help. We must reach out and find others who can help us become who we want to be and lead us where we want to go.
Who’s the new H.E.R.O.?
H = Honesty
Honesty is a way of life. It’s more than just speaking factually about events. It’s about your ability to speak your deepest truth with integrity and kindness. Be real, nicely. It’s about listening to your heart, knowing what you really want, and having the strength to speak it, no matter the risk you might perceive to your relationships.
Honesty is sexy because it shows personal power and authenticity, two of the most powerful and attractive masculine traits. Anything less than full honesty brings hesitation, doubt, or guilt to a relationship, which robs your masculine power.
E = Empathy
Empathy is putting yourself in the other’s shoes. It’s about having emotional intelligence and caring deeply for another. When you understand another’s needs and feelings you can help them develop to their full potential.
Empathy is sexy because it shows your ability to give and receive love . When you can can connect emotionally with a partner they will find you attractive and open their heart to you.
R = Resilience
Resilience is about being flexible, and adapt to new circumstances quickly. It’s about finding the gift in any challenges you are encompassing, it’s about focusing on the opportunity to learn, grow and move forward despite the pain.
Resilience is sexy because it says you know how to cope. It’s about your ability to bounce back from difficult times and it means you are not afraid to stand by your love.
O = Openness
Openness is the path to the heart. It’s your ability to be open and real, and to express your true self, rather than dimming your light, or hiding because of what people think. Dare to show up and let yourself be seen as the unique, powerful expression of You.
Openness is sexy because it reveals the real you, and frees you to live with all your energy. When you are hiding something, you are not bringing your full energy to the relationship, or to your life, and that will always result in less than full intimacy, and it makes it harder to find your masculine power.
Make a difference
If we live our lives by these guidelines any ordinary person can achieve extraordinary results and make a difference in the lives of others.
Because if we want our relationships to be amazing, we must show up and be amazing and that’s really what a hero is.
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Photo: Getty Images