We asked local men from all walks of life what they thought were the best and worst parts of being a man. We didn’t stop there because we even asked many women what they thought those answers would be, and surprisingly, many of the answers were close.
Let’s just get this out in the open right away - peeing standing up was mentioned. A lot. Not one word about leaving the seat up was, though.
So, without any further ado, here are, according to our sources, the best things about being a man:
Never needing makeup.
Can look great bald.
Generally hard working, handy, and strong.
Providing for my family and being their protector.
They don’t experience the physical changes a body goes through when having a child.
You can detach yourself from being very emotional and get the task at hand done.
You are very wonderful problem solvers and very efficient.
You also have a higher metabolism and can eat bigger portions of food.
As opposed to women who get caught up in their emotions, which affects their ability to think clearly and problem solve.
Feeling less vulnerable about safety in public spaces, especially alone at night.
You do not have hormonal changes throughout the month, so your fitness and emotional status are more balanced, and those around you have the perception you’re strong when you’re assertive.
Not giving birth.
Being able to return nearly anything at a store under the guise of “I don’t know, my wife told me didn’t tell me anything other than it needs to go back.”
And the worst things about being a man:
-Allowing the older men in my life to sway how I feel/react to things/deal with emotions.
-Living with the stereotype and pressure of always needing to be the provider, the breadwinner for the family.
-Less connected to emotions, which can sometimes make male and female relationships challenging.
-Many men suffer from loss of hair on their heads and baldness.
-The perception that vulnerability is a weakness, so there’s a ton of pressure to remain “strong” or show no vulnerable emotions, when in reality vulnerability is a strength and holding on to other emotions viewed as “weaker” causes emotional stress and disease. It doesn’t allow you to fully embrace who you are.
-Stressing over responsibilities and not voicing their concerns.
-Being blamed for everything.
-Prostate issues.
-The burden of carrying your own mistakes.
-Not being able to get out of your own way.
-Unless you’re unnaturally talented at it, dancing can look far too goofy.
And for one man, the best and worst thing are identical:
I've come to the interesting conclusion that my least and favorite part about being a man is one in the same. After being raised on that rigid, rugged notion that men must be able to be the provider at all costs, remain invulnerable and self-sufficient, I hate that I have to be. At the same time, the fact that I have that burned in me, I love that no matter how tough the challenges are, I can be that person.