Society, through the media, has portrayed what the perfect man should be.

A successful man with cars and houses. A hardworking man. A strong man who doesn't show emotions. Are you even supposed to have emotions?

A provider. A protector. Someone who is expected to have everything figured out.

And now, there is the growing issue of gym culture, where a man is expected to be fit, muscular and well-built.

We see these expectations every day — in advertisements, movies, television, social media and almost everywhere else.

But what happens to the man who doesn't fit into this picture?

What happens to the man who doesn't have the time to spend hours at the gym? Or the one who simply isn't interested in having a muscular physique? What happens to the man who is struggling financially and cannot afford the lifestyle society expects him to have?

These expectations have placed unrealistic pressure on men, and for some, that pressure can take a serious toll on their mental health.

When a man is unable to meet society's expectation of being the primary financial provider, he may begin to feel like he has failed. The pressure to be self-reliant, independent and strong at all times can also make it difficult for some men to ask for help when they need it.

And sometimes, the pressure becomes too much.

It is time to break free from these stereotypes.

You don't have to fit into society's idea of the "perfect man."

Express your emotions.

Talk when something is bothering you.

Ask for help when you need it.

You don't have to carry everything alone just because you are a man.

Being vulnerable does not make you less of a man.

And society has a role to play too. We need to stop placing unrealistic expectations on men and allow them to be human.

A man can be strong and still cry.

He can be a provider and still need help.

He can be successful without owning a particular car or house.

He can go to the gym, or he can decide that the gym isn't for him.

He can be everything society expects him to be, or he can simply be himself.

Be you. Do you.

#BeYou #DoYou