A Woman’s Perspective on 25 Things That Can Be Considered Unmanly or Manly for Men to Do

As a woman, I have observed that society often places a great deal of emphasis on what is considered “manly” or “unmanly” behavior for men. While some of these expectations may seem harmless, others can be quite harmful and limiting. In this essay, I will explore 25 things that can be considered unmanly or manly for men to do, from a woman’s perspective.

1. Crying: It is often considered unmanly for men to cry, but I believe that this is a harmful stereotype. Everyone experiences emotions, and it is healthy to express them. Men should feel free to cry when they need to.

2. Cooking: Cooking is often seen as a feminine activity, but there is nothing unmanly about being able to cook. In fact, it is a valuable life skill that everyone should learn.

3. Cleaning: Similarly, cleaning is often seen as women’s work, but there is nothing unmanly about keeping a clean and tidy home.

4. Taking care of children: Men are often expected to be the breadwinners and leave the childcare to women. However, taking care of children is a rewarding and important job that both men and women should be able to do.

5. Being emotional: Men are often expected to be stoic and unemotional, but this can be harmful to their mental health. It is important for men to be able to express their emotions and seek help when they need it.

6. Being physically strong: While physical strength is often associated with masculinity, it is not the only measure of a man’s worth. Men should be able to pursue whatever physical activities they enjoy, regardless of whether they make them “strong” or not.

7. Being competitive: Similarly, competitiveness is often seen as a masculine trait, but it can be harmful if taken too far. Men should be able to enjoy competition without it becoming toxic.

8. Being assertive: Assertiveness is often seen as a positive trait in men, but it can become aggressive and harmful if taken too far. Men should be able to assert themselves without being disrespectful or violent.

9. Being independent: Independence is often seen as a positive trait in men, but it can become isolating if taken too far. Men should be able to ask for help and rely on others when they need to.

10. Being vulnerable: Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness in men, but it can actually be a strength. Men should be able to share their vulnerabilities with others without fear of judgment.

11. Being romantic: Romance is often seen as a feminine trait, but there is nothing unmanly about being romantic. Men should be able to express their love and affection in whatever way feels natural to them.

12. Being sensitive: Sensitivity is often seen as a feminine trait, but there is nothing unmanly about being sensitive. Men should be able to empathize with others and be attuned to their emotions.

13. Being nurturing: Nurturing is often seen as a feminine trait, but there is nothing unmanly about being nurturing. Men should be able to care for others and show compassion.

14. Being fashionable: Fashion is often seen as a feminine interest, but there is nothing unmanly about caring about one’s appearance. Men should be able to express themselves through their clothing and grooming choices.

15. Being artistic: Artistic pursuits are often seen as feminine, but there is nothing unmanly about being creative. Men should be able to pursue whatever artistic interests they have.

16. Being intellectual: Intellectual pursuits are often seen as masculine, but there is nothing unmanly about being smart. Men should be able to pursue their intellectual interests without fear of being seen as nerdy or uncool.

17. Being spiritual: Spirituality is often seen as a feminine interest, but there is nothing unmanly about seeking a deeper connection to something greater than oneself. Men should be able to explore their spirituality without fear of being seen as weak.

18. Being a caregiver: Caregiving is often seen as women’s work, but there is nothing unmanly about caring for others. Men should be able to provide care for their loved ones without fear of being seen as weak or emasculated.

19. Being a good listener: Listening is often seen as a feminine trait, but there is nothing unmanly about being a good listener. Men should be able to listen to others and provide support when needed.

20. Being a good communicator: Communication is often seen as a feminine trait, but there is nothing unmanly about being a good communicator. Men should be able to express themselves clearly and effectively.

21. Being a good friend: Friendship is often seen as a feminine interest, but there is nothing unmanly about having close friendships. Men should be able to form meaningful connections with others without fear of being seen as weak.

22. Being a good partner: Partnership is often seen as a feminine interest, but there is nothing unmanly about being a good partner. Men should be able to form healthy and fulfilling relationships with their romantic partners.

23. Being a good parent: Parenting is often seen as women’s work, but there is nothing unmanly about being a good parent. Men should be able to be involved in their children’s lives and provide care and support.

24. Being a good citizen: Citizenship is often seen as a masculine interest, but there is nothing unmanly about being a responsible and engaged member of society. Men should be able to participate in their communities and work towards positive change.

25. Being true to oneself: Ultimately, the most important thing for men (and everyone) is to be true to themselves. Men should be able to pursue their interests and passions without fear of being judged or ostracized.

In conclusion, there are many things that can be considered unmanly or manly for men to do, but these expectations are often harmful and limiting. Men should be able to pursue whatever interests and passions they have, without fear of being judged or ostracized. As a society, we need to move beyond harmful stereotypes and embrace the diversity of human experience.