Unveiling Authenticity: Identify Your True Identity with These 10 Methods for Masculine Unmasking
In a groundbreaking exploration of male identity, entrepreneur, former professional football player, and podcast host Lewis Howes delves into the concept of masks in his book, The Mask of Masculinity.
The book, which serves as a guide for open-minded men to identify their masks, also offers valuable insights for women seeking to understand the men in their lives better.
Howes, the author of The School of Greatness, reveals that these masks represent different defense mechanisms men use to protect themselves from emotional pain, judgment, or rejection. He identifies nine masks of masculinity, each serving a unique purpose in shielding a man's true self and emotional needs.
- The Stoic Mask: Hiding vulnerability by refusing to show emotion or weakness.
- The Athlete Mask: Using physical prowess or fitness to prove worth.
- The Material Mask: Defining masculinity through possessions or financial success.
- The Sexual Mask: Using sex or sexual conquests to mask insecurities.
- The Aggressive Mask: Showing anger or aggression to avoid appearing weak.
- The Joker Mask: Using humor or sarcasm to deflect serious feelings.
- The Superstar Mask: Seeking validation through achievements or public recognition.
- The Knowledge Mask: Asserting intellect or expertise to dominate conversations or avoid emotions.
- The Protector Mask: Being overly responsible or controlling to avoid feeling helpless.
These masks, according to Howes, illustrate how men "wear" aspects of masculinity to hide their true selves and emotional needs, often leading to disconnection from themselves and others.
Howes suggests a daily self-reflection routine, including a Morning Gut Check, Midday Trigger Trap, and Nighttime Mask Audit, to help map mask habits and start shedding them. He also recommends finding someone trustworthy to share masks or secrets with, such as a therapist, coach, or close friend, to safely drop the mask.
In his definition of a true alpha, Howes draws a parallel to a silver-backed gorilla in the jungle, confident, poised, and graceful, and directing the energy around him rather than destroying. This contrasts with the aggressive alpha male stereotype often portrayed in media.
For those interested in delving deeper into the topic, Howes's book, The Mask of Masculinity, is available on Amazon, along with additional resources on his website and blog.
Sources: - LewisHowes.com - Amazon - Author's blog
[1] Lewis Howes, The Mask of Masculinity (Hay House, 2018) [2] Lewis Howes, The School of Greatness (Hay House, 2015) [3] Instagram posts by Lewis Howes, various dates.
- Embracing personal growth and self-development, one can learn from Lewis Howes's book, The Mask of Masculinity, a guide that unveils the masks men use in their lifestyle to hide their emotional needs and vulnerabilities, and provides practical steps for shedding these masks.
- In the realm of education-and-self-development, understanding the masks of masculinity as discussed in Lewis Howes's book, The Mask of Masculinity, offers valuable insights for individuals seeking to foster closer, more authentic relationships with the men in their lives.
