I think men are getting mixed signals these days. We celebrate strength and competitiveness (stereotypically “masculine” qualities) as ever, dismissing unintended side effects of arrogance and aggression as if they were separate things. Any strength can be imbalanced or overused. And we all deserve opportunities, to be honored and treated…

You may have identities ad infinitum, some starkly contradicting Cultural, political, socioeconomic, spiritual, vocational This lends fantastic breadth and can get confused or disempowering Identity is shaped externally first, then invented. To function at your best, choose (and please like what you’re choosing) You’re a dabbler, pleaser or chameleon? Hang…

We don’t think of kind people as fierce They can be the fiercest. The strongest. The most protective. The most dedicated. Like a lion with cubs In front of their causes. Darkness won’t win in a fight against power + love. It’s all there is It’s disarming.

He couldn’t tell… … I was scared. In love with him I grieved hard. Decades of loneliness … I was Defensive Tense and Frozen … I was shocked at first Submitted then performed for him I denied weakness. … I was 33 years unadult when we met And he would…

“Laser focus” isn’t myopic There is strength and savvy in staying flexible and fluid Moving elegantly and efficiently Toward the work of art your life’s work will have been When you realize to your bones (honoring insults and injuries) That you’re the one making it Put differently a good meal Is rarely just about the food. Want more work tips and inspiration? Subscribe to my weekly newsletter at caseyonder.com.

What are you striving for? Wealth? Enjoyment? Well-being? Connection? Leisure? Creativity? Contribution? Choose your own adventure… Reprioritizing when you’ve worked hard to get where you’ve gotten is an accomplishment in itself. Because why go better, faster, harder in things that don’t feel quite right, aren’t empowered or healthy, or that…

I was called “feral” recently (she, my flight companion-turned-BF, meant it as a compliment) !!! Not sure that’s what I was going for … That said I’ve risked everything to get to “I do what I want.” I don’t mean hedonistic (mostly) … I do mean: What feels right instinctively…

Feeling small or stagnant? Do gooders can struggle to access their true potential… We learn to put our heads down and perform to a T, or to be bold, brash and persuasive, whether or not this feels authentic or aligns with our values. …

Vulnerability in the workplace is trendy (and controversial). When does it work in your favor professionally? By vulnerability I mean the Brené Brown variation — taking emotional risks. In work contexts this can mean admitting fears, flaws and mistakes. Alternatively it can mean increased visibility, bigger goals and risks and…