Raising Boys who Stand Tall: Nurturing Self-Esteem with Purpose

Hmmmmmmmm, did you know you know that May 16th was International Boys’ Day? 

The theme for this year 2025 is *“Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard, Be Seen”* hits home for many of us who believe in nurturing the next generation of confident, strong, resilient and kind young men.

A healthy Self-Esteem matters greatly In a world where boys are often told to “man up”, "be a man",  rather than being opportune to speak up. 

Consequently, building self-esteem becomes very crucial. 

It is about teaching boys, young men that being seen and heard is of utmost importance and not to be overlooked.

When boys feel valued and confident, they are better equipped to navigate challenges and embrace who they truly are.

A few points on nurturing confidence in a step by step approach to enrich healthy growth and mental wellness without piling on the usual pressures:

- Affirm Their Worth: Celebrate their small wins, not just achievements but effort, growth, and kindness.

- Encourage Expression: Let them find their voices, speak up to be heard, express their thoughts, even when they fumble. It is a learning curve that builds courage.

- Model Vulnerability: Show that strength and openness can co-exist. It is okay to share feelings, be vulnerable and seek support. 

- Guide, Don’t Dictate: Offer guidance while allowing them to make choices, from holistic point of views. This helps to build decision-making and critical-thinking skills.

- Cultural Wisdom: There’s a saying in Yoruba: “Ọmọkùnrin tó bá gbé ara rẹ̀ ga, èèyàn kò lè fi í ṣèròjê.” (Translation: “A boy who carries himself with dignity cannot be treated with contempt.”)

All of these highlight the importance of nurturing boys to carry themselves with self-worth and pride. When boys value themselves, they naturally earn respect from others. Thus, today's nurturing mean helping them build that sense of dignity and self-assurance.

Adulting - from Boys to Men with a proper, healthy self-esteem does not just happen. It is crafted, woven over years of support, empathy, and nurturing. 

Let us empower boys to see themselves not just as strong (sheer physical strength), but also as thoughtful, kind, and impactful.

What are your thoughts on raising boys or mentoring young men, being intentional, taking into considerations that nurturing their self-esteem today shapes and prepares them as leaders of tomorrow. 

Let us keep the conversation going, how do you build confidence in the boys around you?

#InternationalBoysDay #BuildingSelfEsteem #StandUpBeHeardBeSeen

#shift

#mindfulness

#TheNurturer

Selah