A man’s sense of purpose is a personal, authentic set of life aims that guide his decisions and give meaning to his existence. It can be found in many ways.
Nurturing a man’s sense of purpose requires commitment and dedication. It also means overcoming obstacles. This is why men like to join support groups such as Mens Group to gain more support and guidance.
- Encourage Open Expression
The UIC Policy on Open Expression frames how free speech and expression of dissent is supported within the university community. It applies to all faculty, staff, students and guests.
Encourage your man to express his opinions and listen respectfully to others. This can help him feel more confident in his ability to contribute. When talking about emotional issues, avoid using phrases that suggest he is suffering or failing, and instead talk about seeking help as a sign of strength and empowerment.
- Be His Sounding Board
Deeply rooted in every man is the need to feel needed. Men are the protectors and providers of their family and, once they attain this long-time ingrained sense of purpose, it makes them feel whole.
Be a sounding board for your man so that he can bounce ideas and thoughts off of you without being judged for it. The term sounding board is actually an idiom, meaning that although the literal meaning of the phrase is a device to reflect or magnify sound, it’s often used metaphorically to mean someone who listens without prejudice and offers feedback.
Having someone to discuss ideas with can help you gain perspective, says Erkfitz, as well as provide clarity when you’re trying to make decisions. Be sure to clarify whether you’re just listening or also offering advice so that the two of you are on the same page.
- Offer Practical Help
Providing practical help to those in need can be an effective way to nurture your man’s sense of purpose. This can include offering emotional support, physical assistance, informational support, and skills training. It can also include developing strategies and tools for overcoming challenges, improving quality of life, and fostering community and connection.
A man with a clear sense of purpose can inspire the women in his life to live their best lives as well. This is because he can serve as a model of what it means to be a man of character and substance. He’ll know how to firmly and graciously end relationships that aren’t a good fit, practice direct communication, and focus on his goals. He’ll also be able to help his future children become the people they want to be by staying committed to his vision.
- Celebrate Successes
Men need a sense of purpose to feel fulfilled and confident in their masculinity. It can be based on their faith, work, hobbies or family – whatever makes them feel like a man.
It is also important for them to find a way to celebrate their successes, both personal and professional. Positive psychology studies show that celebrating small achievements more frequently is more beneficial and motivating than waiting for the big wins.
For example, if you are the leader of a team, take a moment to reflect on what worked well last week and what was accomplished. This will help to foster an intrinsic motivational culture that encourages growth and development. You can even use Hive to create a special celebration channel for your team and make it more fun!
- Nurture His Dreams
Men need to feel that they contribute to a greater whole. They may need to accomplish this in their work, their spiritual life, or by helping others. This sense of contribution gives them a sense of purpose.
Nurturing a man doesn’t have to mean coddling him or trying to get him to “let it all out.” It can involve supporting his goals and encouraging him to follow his heart. It can also include building trust, cultivating emotional intimacy, offering affection, fostering personal growth and handling conflicts with care.
Many men find that their sense of purpose is connected to their work. For instance, a man who wants to open a garage gym and spends hours every day training clients will often find that his purpose is fulfilling.
