Guys Talk About the Moment They Became “Real Men”

I’m a man. At least on paper. Most days I feel more like a confused kid, or perhaps some kind of forgotten species of weasel whose forthcoming extinction will go unheralded.

I’ve always been a little jealous of the sorts of people who really feel like they’ve got a firm and comfortable grasp on who they are – on what their identity is.

But reading through these submissions on what moments made guys feel like “real men,” I realized something that might just qualify as important. I realized that I’ve had a lot of these experiences too, and they did feel really good. And that that sort of confidence boost probably just isn’t permanent – security comes and goes. And that’s alright. And it’s alright to take note of the moments that make you feel proud.

10. Moving out

And definitely movin’ on up.

9. What’s mine is yours

Not sure why this is accompanied by a picture of a dog leash but I’m not here to judge.

8. Working out

Man, I REALLY gotta start doing this again.

7. I’ll drink to that

If I remember right my first beer purchase was something horribly embarrassing.

6. Vote and tote

Two out of three ain’t bad.

5. Friendly advice

It’s a little frightening and a lot empowering.

4. By the self

Yeah, agreed.

3. Family dinner

“So, do you have any siblings?”

2. Bringing forth

It’s gotta feel so invigorating and so intimidating.

1. A helping hand

That’s awesome.

It’s nice to feel like you’ve really come into your own.

Have you had a moment like that in your life?

Tell us about it in the comments.