In September 2023, I devised the concept of "Foundational Man" to be a comprehensive and insightful way to frame the idea of what it means to be a fully-realized man in the chaos and possibility of modern society.
The term embodies the notion that for a man to reach his "Golden Age," which could be defined as a state of maximal personal, professional, and emotional development, a strong and reliable "foundation" must be laid first.
Similarly, the term also implies that such individuals contribute to the “foundation” of society and may lead it towards a generative or "Golden Age."
Importance of Foundation:
- Personal Growth: Understanding one's foundation can help in recognizing patterns or habits that either contribute to or hinder personal development.
- Mental Health: A strong foundation includes healthy coping mechanisms, emotional intelligence, and the ability to be alone without the need for external distractions, leading to better mental well-being.
- Quality Relationships: A man with a good foundation knows the value of meaningful relationships and takes responsibility for their flourishing. At the same time, the foundational man does not do things just to live up to others' expectations. He lives according to “divine expectations.”
- Societal Contribution: A foundational man is not just inward-focused but also considers his role in society. He understands that his well-being is interconnected with the well-being of his community and beyond. He makes a meaningful contribution to humanity’s future.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: A strong foundation allows for a more agile approach to life's challenges, as the foundational skills and attitudes cultivated are generally applicable across a variety of situations.
Key Questions to Audit One's Foundation:
As a man, how can you assess the sturdiness of your foundation? Here are two questions that have helped me:
- Whose expectations are you living by?: This helps identify if you are truly living your life or one based on societal or familial pressures, which may not lead to true happiness or fulfillment.
- How comfortable are you alone, without external stimulation?: This can serve as a litmus test for emotional independence, self-directed-ness, and self-awareness, key attributes of a foundational man.
By encouraging men to scrutinize these aspects of their life, the concept of "Foundational Man" acts as a proactive, constructive meme.
It prompts individuals to take responsibility for their actions, attitudes, and overall life trajectory, thereby enabling both personal and societal Golden Ages.
To summarize, the idea of a "Foundational Man" serves as a useful tool in stimulating important conversations around male identity, growth, and societal roles. It not only promotes personal introspection but also facilitates a broader dialogue on what it means to be a responsible and fully-realized individual in the modern world.
