I've screenshot this reply, that way I can read it whenever I need it.
Thank you
You're welcome bro.
It also took courage and confidence for you to share what you did.
Easy to forget that.
I'm sure you also know people who could not show any sense of vulnerability like we do in this forum sometimes.
It takes 'balls' to do that.
I used to keep shit to myself thinking it made me seem strong.
And this is conditioned into us by society.
The truth is more subtle than that.
Potentially off topic, but the hardest lesson for many guys is in relation to women.
I like to think of the difference as this between being needy and being authentic and strong.
Metaphorically it's like holding a baby that is crying. Neediness is passing the baby to (in this case a woman) and saying "You take care of it."
Authentic sharing and honesty, is keeping hold of the baby and saying.., "I just need to take some time to take care of this." And if they offer to help, then fantastic.
Mature women hate the first option but respect the hell out of the second.
Just one example, but it applies to many areas of life.
Something I've gotten wrong too many times but am getting better at.
Maybe others reading this can relate.