The opening post, Becoming a Well-Balanced Man, in this current series on maintaining balance stated that learning balance was critical to becoming a mature adult man. This included balancing all the aspects of a man’s life: his emotional, mental, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. The second post, The Benefits of Becoming a Balanced Man suggests that finding balance helps boost your confidence and self-esteem, sense of purpose, and accomplishment. It also fosters adaptability and builds greater resilience which helps men manage their challenges and setbacks effectively. In this next post, I describe the importance of emotional balance; quite often the most difficult of these areas for men. Subsequent posts will cover physical, mental, social, and spiritual balance.
The Difference between Emotional and Mental Health
First, let’s understand that there are key differences between our emotional and mental health. Both are important to our overall well-being. Both affect how we behave, get along with others, and enjoy life.
According to Mindful Health Solutions, emotional health is the capacity to identify and manage your emotions and feelings, as well as the emotions of those around you. It involves developing the ability to express emotions in healthy ways, such as being able to handle stress and take responsibility for your own feelings.
Essentially, good emotional health is fundamental to our mental health, and both are essential for overall well-being but they are different. The next post will cover mental health.
A Man’s Emotions
Over the years of writing my blog, I’ve suggested that control of our emotions is an important mark of maturity in men.
In the summary of Men and Their Emotions, I wrote how the psychological (affecting the functions of our mind) and physiological (affecting the functions of our body) impacts everyone differently. I also stated that everyone learns to manage their emotions differently. Some manage them well; others not at all. For men, each of our emotions of Anger, Fear, Sadness, Happiness, Pride, Guilt, Anxiety, and Boredom manifest differently than they do for females. But that does not mean men should let their emotions define them or get away from them. We must learn to manage and control our emotions as we mature.
In a series about Better Manhood Skills, I also suggested that Controlling Your Emotions is influenced by your biology, upbringing, socialization, and personal experiences. However, control comes through the development of emotional intelligence and regulation which comes from using disciplines and practices, such as:
- Having Self-awareness.
- Identifying Your Triggers
- Having Empathy.
- Improving Your Communication Skills.
- Practicing Mindfulness and Meditation.
- Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle.
- Managing Stress.
- Challenging Negative Thinking.
- Learning Emotional Regulation Techniques.
- Setting Realistic Expectations.
- Seeking Support of Friends and Family.
- Get Professional Help.
Many men allow their emotions to destroy them. That does not imply we should neglect or suppress our emotions. It simply means we must learn how to express them appropriately and in proper proportions.
Friendships That Teach You About Emotions
While emotional balance is difficult for men, having better friendships, especially as we move into young adulthood, can help. Having close friendships with other guys helps men learn how to manage and control their emotions. Your friends can point out when you are out of balance. But remember, Don’t Be “That Guy” because we all have traits that drive a wedge between friends. Being too critical can keep you from making some really good friendships.
I strongly believe that GodBuddies can help you find better emotional balance. These deeper, more authentic friendships, can help you identify your immature emotions and behaviors. They can help you develop emotional intelligence. They can gently hold you accountable and pray for you and with you so you can find more balance. At the very least, they can help you seek professional help.
Next Up
My next post will describe the components of maintaining mental balance as a man.
Wisdom for Men is based on my opinions on topics that help men become better men. The sources used for these posts are not fact-checked, but support my theory that men are better with deeper, more authentic friendships. My GodBuddy theory is based on biblical principles but applies to all men, regardless of their beliefs. Better friendships among men will help solve the crisis of male friendships and many of today’s problems… because the world needs better men!
[Feature Photo by Nubelson Fernandes on Unsplash]
