International Men's Day: A Reality Check Today is International Men's Day—a day to appreciate men and acknowledge their struggles. But are we truly aware of the challenges men face daily while balancing their dreams, responsibilities, and emotions? In our society, men's issues are often overlooked. They rarely express their feelings because doing so is often seen as a sign of weakness. If a man is unemployed, unmarried, or doesn't have financial resources, society often disrespects him. The environment we’ve created forces men to silently endure their battles, with no space to express themselves. The Burden of Traditional Mindsets Outdated beliefs and narrow mindsets have kept us from allowing the younger generation to live on their own terms. Instead, we impose our life experiences and views on them, often filled with negativity, restrictions, and doubts. This limits their potential to explore life and grow in a supportive environment. It's Not Just About Men Women face similar struggles, with societal norms stopping them from openly expressing their thoughts and feelings. Whether men or women, both deserve the freedom to voice their emotions and opinions without fear of judgment. What Can We Do? It’s time to rethink and transform our approach: 1. Foster Open Conversations: Encourage men and women to share their thoughts and emotions freely. 2. Give Respect: Treat unemployed or financially struggling men with dignity. 3. Support the Next Generation: Instead of imposing limitations, help them explore life and reach their potential. The Bigger Picture International Men's Day or Women's Day is not just about celebrating one day; it’s about introspection and bringing real change. The question is: are we creating an environment at home and within families where everyone can live their truth and chase their dreams without fear? Let’s work together to build a society where men and women can thrive, support each other, and live with dignity and freedom. #InternationalMensDay #MenMatterToo #SupportAndRespect #BreakTheStigma #EmpathyForAll
Charu Kumar Mathur’s Post
More Relevant Posts
-
🔔 Today we are celebrating International Men's Day! 🔔 Want to know why? There is growing evidence that men are falling behind. In education, fewer males are graduating from high school or earning primary degrees than ever before. 🎓 Similarly, as the future of work evolves, we are seeing that the industries being impacted most by automation and digitisation, are those dominated by males e.g. manufacturing and production, while those growth industries e.g. education, creative and service, are those being dominated by women. Consequently, we are now seeing a growing and concerning number of men in some cultures, routinely out of work with little prospects of their return. The impact of this dynamic is that we are seeing a significant and detrimental impact on men's mental health and wellbeing, with increased rates of mental health conditions, suicide, divorce and even radicalisation as men struggle to find a place in this new world. While this is absolution NOT calling for a shift or a slow down in the education and economic empowerment of women, we do need to take action. So today, International Men's Day is an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the essential part men and boys play in making our world a better place. It's the value they add as role models, caregivers, bread winners and contributors to our life. So, to all you men, thank you for your contributions. Your role as protectors and providers may be shifting, but you still have a valuable place in the world. #InternationalMensDay #EqualityForAll #FlippingTheGenderGap #SupportMensHealth #InclusiveSystems #MensWellbeing #InclusiveFuture #MenMatter
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Nobody cares about International Men's Day. Have you ever noticed how widely International Women’s Day is celebrated, but Men’s Day often goes unnoticed? This isn’t about comparison, it’s about inclusion. While we take strides to empower and uplift women (rightfully so!), shouldn’t we also take a moment to celebrate the incredible men around us? I often think that we call out men for their wrongdoings; and rightfully so, I do too. But don’t you think men also play pivotal roles in our lives? I know a lot of men who are brothers, friends, mentors, and colleagues who show up daily, balancing responsibilities, breaking stereotypes, and contributing to the betterment of society. Yet, conversations about their challenges; mental health, societal expectations, and emotional well-being; are often overlooked. And with a day dedicated to them, isn’t it time we also recognize and celebrate the good ones out loud? This #InternationalMensDay, let’s start a conversation about appreciation and support. Let’s acknowledge their efforts, highlight their stories, and create spaces where men feel equally valued. Here’s to celebrating all #men Not just for what they achieve, but for Who they are. Happy International Men’s Day! 💙🌟
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
💙 Happy International Men’s Day! 💙 Today, I want to take a moment to personally thank the incredible men in my life—both professionally and personally—for the impact, inspiration, and support you’ve brought into my journey. Your kindness, strength and authenticity are deeply appreciated. As I scrolled through LinkedIn today, I’ve noticed how quiet the celebrations are. Few individuals and organisations are recognizing this important day. As a feminist I believe in true equality, I see this as a moment to highlight that the pendulum swings both ways. True equality means creating space to celebrate, support, and advocate for everyone. In 2024, there remain deeply concerning statistics that demand our attention and action.... 🌍 Mental health: Men account for 75% of global suicides, driven by isolation, societal expectations, and a lack of support. 💭 Stigma: Around 10% of men experience anxiety and depression, yet less than half seek treatment due to societal pressures and the stigma of vulnerability. 🧠 Unrealistic expectations: Traditional definitions of masculinity, such as being the “provider” or suppressing emotions, contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. ⚖️ Body image pressures: Men are increasingly impacted by societal ideals, with a growing prevalence of eating disorders as they strive to meet unrealistic standards of physical appearance. These challenges highlight the importance of fostering open conversations, expanding access to mental health resources, and embracing a broader, more inclusive understanding of masculinity in today’s world. To the men in my network (and there are too many to name): Today, I celebrate you and the positive impact you bring to the world. Your contributions, resilience, and authenticity deserve recognition—not just on International Men’s Day, but every day. 🤗 #InternationalMensDay #MentalHealthAwareness
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Did you know it is International Men's Day today? You may think that, as generally men rule the world, it isn't a celebration that is needed. Or perhaps you subscribe to the feeling that women have enough special preference it is about time men got a look in with their own day. All humans need to be celebrated. We all have the power to make someone's life better, so let us cherish those relationships of people who are a bit different to us and support each other. We know that statistically men between 18 and 35 are more likely to die by suicide, surely society needs to address that. It isn't a mans problem it is an everyone problem. The same as it is an everyone problem for women to feel safe walking alone at night. We need to stop thinking - 'them and us'. It has to be 'we'. So let us celebrate the amazing men in our lives today. From husbands, sons, brothers and son in laws, friends and colleagues - we all know some pretty incredible men. Those who are still learning to be incredible can only get there by our support, not our blame or judgement. If you feel, as I do that we are a human being first and should be accepted and loved on that basis, then you will feel right at home with the Collaboration Global community. Come and meet them at a guest session and with some wonderful people of every configuration find ways to collaborate to make our world a better place. Link to book in comments.👇 Do you think International Men's Day is a good idea? 🤔 #InternationalMenDay #humanbeingfirst #collaboration #CoGlo
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
The Truth Be Told! Today, on International Men's Day, we take a moment to recognize and celebrate men all over the world—our fathers, sons, brothers, mentors, and friends. While there’s no shortage of discussions around women’s empowerment, it’s equally important to acknowledge the often overlooked contributions of men to families, communities, and societies at large. Too often, men are expected to silently bear the weight of responsibilities, to be providers, protectors, and pillars of strength, without the same level of recognition or appreciation. In a world that sometimes underestimates the value of emotional vulnerability, mental health, and the complexities of masculinity, today serves as a reminder to honor the diverse roles that men play in our lives. This isn’t about elevating one gender above another, but rather, recognizing the full spectrum of human experience. Men, like anyone, deserve support, encouragement, and appreciation for their hard work, their struggles, and their contributions. So today, let’s celebrate the men who uplift us, who stand strong even when they don’t feel like it, and who work tirelessly to create a better future for everyone. Let's remind them that their worth isn’t defined by society’s expectations, but by the love, care, and respect they give and deserve in return. Happy International Men’s Day! Let’s appreciate and uplift men everywhere—not just today, but every day. #internationaldayforthemen
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
<#AustralianDream in Sydney🇦🇺>Featured in the #NICHIGOPress as one of the Japanese women working in Australia (the only Japanese-language media outlet in Australia that is approved to carry government greetings). It is a very inspiring article for those who want to work overseas, especially in Sydney. The conversation was an eye-opening experience for those who are thinking about building a career overseas in the future. Had the opportunity to have a conversation with Eri Sasaki from Canva and Iori Forsyth from the Australia Japan Business Co-operation Committee (AJBCC) We talked about how we built their career experience in Australia and how they utilized #Linkedin to build their opportunities. It was an eye-opener. This article was featured in the March 2024 issue of the Australian Japanese Media NICHIGO Press, 'Opportunities abound in Australia.Shining Women: A Roundtable Discussion' (in Japanese). This is WOMENCANFLY.CO 's own English translation of the article. How did you seize opportunities in Australia? ・What exactly did you do? ・What is it about Sydney that attracts you more than other cities? ・What are the advantages of Sydney over other cities? We hope that this article will be empowering for those who want to work overseas in the future. Thank you very much #nichgopress for doing this! ◾️ Feature article in the March 2024 issue of the #NICHIGOPress NICHIGO PRESS PTY LTD, Australia [Opportunities abound in Australia! Shining Women Roundtable] https://lnkd.in/gYuNM3CY #LinkedInSuccess #linkedintips #JapanAustraliarelations #careerdevelopment #entrepreneurship #Sydney #Australia #Overseascareers #internationalstudents #Internship #Employment #Linkedinsuccess #womenempowerment
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Very well formulated. I suggest my network to read this important post below.
Gender Transformative Technical Expert for WFP's 'Youth in Work' Mastercard Foundation Programme in Africa | International gender+inclusion specialist | Youth, agri, climate/DRR/AA, economic empowerment, engaging men
I want to say something briefly about International Men’s Day, as the conversation about it is hugely problematic. First things first, this is not a real international “day” in the sense that many falsely assume it is. It is not recognized by the UN nor was it a product of countries collaborating to establish such a day, in response to the need to support a chronically marginalized and oppressed group. It was started by an individual man, a history lecturer at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad Tabago, in 1999. It was started because this man felt that men in general needed their own day of recognition and celebration - that men faced too much criticism and there should be more attention paid to the other positive things they do. Secondly, and most importantly, the designation of an International Day has historically been to spotlight and support certain groups that have been systematically and historically marginalized, oppressed and violated. Women have an International Day as a group precisely BECAUSE they have been systematically and historically marginalized, oppressed and violated. Other groups follow suit. If folks want to have some kind of annual awareness raising event or campaign that addresses things like men’s mental health issues, or toxic masculinity, etc. that’s fine. I think it could be good. But to have an International Day simply because women have one, “so men should, too” is ridiculous and entirely missing the point. In fact, the expectation that we should have a global “day” to celebrate men (whom we know from mountains and mountains of data and evidence continue to experience tremendous power, privilege and recognition) is absurd, and is merely mirroring the patriarchy right back to us, this incessant demand that men be put at the centre of the conversation over and over again, the very thing we are striving to dismantle - for literally everyone’s sake. To put this point into a more simplified perspective, having an International Men’s Day is akin to: - having an International White People’s Day - having an International Able-Bodied People’s Day - having an International Straight People’s Day When you are already in the dominant social group, it’s absurd to expect, in addition to all your existing power and privilege, an extra special day just for you. I rest my case. 😏
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
I made a big mistake early in my career - and I am paying the price now! 🫣 In my early years of my career, I felt out of place. The pressure to conform to a male-centric culture was overwhelming. The heaviness of wearing a mask, trying hard to fit into the mood, drained me. Adopting behaviors that didn't resonate with me led to a persistent sense of disconnection. 😶 Making work trips, seminars, conferences networking events even more daunting. Now, three years into running my own business, the consequences are clear. I can't do this alone, and I don't want to. Building a network is essential, not just for business growth but there is few things more powerful than feeling seen and heard! This realization has hit hard. And it's not just my story. Many women share this experience. Research shows that women, especially in male-dominated fields, often struggle to network, build authentic connections, and feel genuinely valued. According to the Harvard Business Review, women are more likely to feel isolated and undervalued, which impacts their ability to form professional relationships and leads to missed opportunities for mentorship and career advancement. This lack of connection makes navigating these environments even more challenging. What truly made a difference for me was transitioning from networking to community building. This shift focuses on creating environments where genuine connections can grow and everyone feels seen and heard. Moving to Cape Town has added its own challenges, but it has also pushed me to prioritize building these connections more than ever. I’m looking forward to being back in Berlin in August, with a few coffee dates already in the calendar. 😍 #WomenEmpowerment #FemaleLeadership #AuthenticConnections #SheRising #FemaleNetwork #WomenNetwork
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Return to work with confidence, and a plan! If you would love to return to work after a long career break, then the Women Returners Back to Your Future Conference is just what you need. This virtual conference on 1-2 May, is aimed at returning women professionals, the Conference is packed full of advice, inspiration, tools and connections to get you back to a rewarding role! “I now feel inspired and encouraged to start on my return to work journey!” - 2023 Attendee Here’s what to expect from the Conference: ✅Advice and information from a wide range of Return-to-Work Expert Workshops ✅Connect with other like-minded women returners through 1:1 video conversations and in sector-based small group video chat rooms ✅ Be encouraged by the stories of a Returner panel of women who have successfully returned to work in a variety of different fields, hosted by Jane Garvey ✅Hear from Maria Caulfield MP, Minister for Women ✅Learn more about return to work opportunities and organisations ✅Ask your questions live to our Career Returners (previously Women Returners) coaches Who is the Conference aimed at? 👉Women with a professional/managerial background who have taken a long career break (over a year) and who want to return to work using their professional skills and experience. 👉Your career break could be for 18 months or 18 years, for childcare, eldercare, health, relocation or other reasons. 👉You may be looking to return to a similar role, to pivot or to change completely 👉You may have not done any paid work for a number of years, or have been running your own business or doing lower-level work around other commitments 👉You could be any age Ticket holders can recap and catch up on speaker, panel and main stage workshop sessions for 30 days after the event. Buy your ticket here >>> https://lnkd.in/e-KzPpNq
To view or add a comment, sign in
-
Today is International Men’s Day - a time to reflect, appreciate, and advocate As a QHSE manager and a passionate advocate for DE&I, I’m taking a moment today to shine a spotlight on International Men’s Day. This day is not just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to reflect on the roles men play in society, the unique challenges they face, and how we can foster an environment where everyone thrives. Celebrating men’s contributions International Men’s Day recognizes the positive value men bring to the world, their families, and their communities. Let’s celebrate the mentors, leaders, and friends who inspire us. It’s also a time to appreciate those breaking stereotypes, being allies, and advocating for gender equity. Highlighting men’s mental health In many workplaces and communities, men’s mental health remains a silent crisis. Stigma around vulnerability and seeking help often prevents men from accessing the support they need. It’s crucial that we normalize conversations about emotional well-being and encourage open dialogue. Advocating for inclusive workplaces Men play a critical role in advancing DE&I. By challenging outdated norms and being active participants in creating equitable workplaces, men can be powerful allies for change. Inclusivity benefits everyone, and it starts with listening, learning, and leading by example. Call to action : today, I encourage everyone to: - start a conversation : check in with a male colleague, friend, or family member. Ask how they’re doing beyond the surface. - promote mental health awareness : share resources, attend a workshop, or advocate for better mental health support in your organization. - be an ally : reflect on how you can support gender equity in your personal and professional life. Men - consider how you can actively participate in DE&I efforts. Let’s use International Men’s Day as a stepping stone toward a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable world. Together, we can break down barriers and build bridges - for men, and for everyone. What does International Men’s Day mean to you? Share your thoughts or initiatives in the comments below! #internationalmensday #mensday #happymensday #menshealth #mensrights
To view or add a comment, sign in