Men’s Groups

Men’s Groups are a stepping stone between group therapy and the real world, aimed at dealing with issues from a masculine perspective. You can be open and honest without being labelled sexist or worrying what the women will think. Traditional tribal groups passed on secret men’s business to boys when they were initiated into manhood, but modern western society leaves most boys bewildered when we become men. This is one of the rare opportunities you get to discuss men’s wisdom and pass it on.

Joining a Men’s Group is a great way to build self-confidence.

A good men’s group has a range of ages and life experiences, where everyone can both contribute and learn from each other. It’s also an opportunity to get the fathering that you may have missed out on if your father was passive, physically or emotionally absent. Leadership of the group often rotates, giving you the opportunity to learn to lead other men. It’s a chance to get in touch with your masculine power.

Many of the successful men I know are members of a men’s group. They are highly recommended in Steve Biddulph’s excellent book Manhood. I attend a monthly men’s group, and find it tremendously valuable.

Advantages:

• Massively de-shaming
• Powerfully bonding with other men
• The antidote to Nice Guy Syndrome
• You learn that deep down, you are just like other guys really
• Learn to relate more deeply to other men, and your own masculinity
• Finding a father-figure to get what you missed from your real father
• Get in touch with your masculine power

Disadvantages:

• You don’t get to hear the female perspective
• You don’t get to practise social skills with women
• Can degenerate into women-hating bitterness
• Other men in the group are often out of touch with their masculine power
• Anyone can start a Men’s group without training or experience
• Leaders sometimes have dysfunctional lives and may not be great role models

If you’re interested in finding a group near you, check out the men’s group directory. If there isn’t one close by, starting your own is an excellent way to build your leadership skills and self-confidence around other men. You can find everything you need to know about how to start and run a group at mensgroup.info. If a group setting feels too intense and you’d prefer to talk to a guy 1-on-1 about the challenges in your life, contact me about personal coaching.