Today, being International Men’s Day, we recognize all the great men of Mixta. It’s a time to appreciate men of positive impact and remember the value of well-being. This year’s theme, “Positive Male Role Models,” invites us to consider the ordinary heroes that surround us and reflect on what each one of us can do to become that role model for people in our lives.
Why Positive Role Models Are Important?
Now, reflect on the men who have influenced you: a father, brother, friend, coach, or colleague. These are those who show up, even when it’s hard. They lead with kindness; demonstrate integrity; and inspire confidence in others. It is not about grand gestures or public recognition; true role models are defined by small consistent actions that build trust, strength, and a sense of community.
These are the people who remind us that being a role model is not just about material achievements , but how we impact the lives of others, take on challenges, and show empathy. Every supportive conversation, every word of encouragement, even a moment of shared vulnerability, serves as a model for the people surrounding us.
Mental and Physical Health: The Core of Strength
One very important aspect of being a role model is to show that it’s okay to take care of your own health, both mentally and physically. For far too long, men have been taught to be “tough” and never speak about struggles, leading to silent battles regarding mental health. The point is, real strength is understanding we all go through something and taking care of ourselves.
Statistics don’t lie: men underreport their mental health issues much more, and the silence has consequences. In normalising a culture of help-seeking-talking with friends, therapies, and stress-relieving activities-we send a strong message that taking care of your mental health is not a sign of weakness but rather a courageous act of self-respect.
Equally important is physical health. When men commit themselves to regular exercise, proper eating, and periodic health checkups, much more than taking good care of oneself is involved here: a practical example is set that health does count indeed. These habits improve not only our own quality of life but also motivate those around us to do the same.
Steps to Becoming a Positive Role Model
Being a positive influence does not mean being perfect; it is simply being real, trying, failing and learning as one goes. Here’s how to get started:
Present and Empathetic: Show up in people’s lives, listen, and understand. Empathy builds bridges; empathy deepens connections.
Take Care of Yourself: It’s important to show others that one can balance responsibilities with taking care of one’s personal well-being. When one prioritises self-care, so will others.
Share your struggles and successes, too. Open communication allows others to be themselves without judgement; it allows them to open up, too.
Act with Integrity: When it’s hard, do what’s right. Integrity will earn you trust and respect.
Support and Celebrate Others: Mentor someone or celebrate a friend’s successes-either way, these are the moments that leave a mark.
Let’s Honor and Inspire
International Men’s Day is much more than a celebration; rather, it’s a clarion call to action. Take a minute to appreciate those men who have shown the way and commit yourself to being that example too.
Whether it’s prioritising our health, being there for a friend, or just showing up with authenticity, every single positive action counts in building a better world.
Reach out to someone today. Reflect on your journey or make a commitment to take care of your well-being.
Your actions, big or small, have the power to inspire those around you. Take that step. Be the role model that you wish you had.
