Part 1: Build Competence, Radiate Usefulness, Amass Goodwill
A man’s standing in society is largely determined by his perceived usefulness. Before anything else—status, relationships, or respect—his utility score is assessed. A man without value becomes invisible at best and actively avoided at worst, often left dependent on the kindness of others.
Competence and goodwill serve as the foundation for building meaningful relationships. When men feel obsolete, they deteriorate—mentally, physically, and socially. Fortunately, human civilization has embedded reciprocity into our consciousness. Those who contribute meaningfully in their prime can accumulate goodwill that acts as a support system in their later years.
Part 2: Parlay Goodwill into Meaningful Relationships
A fulfilling life for men is one of continuous effort—building, cultivating, and contributing. It’s encoded in our biology. To abandon this drive is to risk irrelevance, isolation, and decline. The modern 躺平 (lying flat) movement, where people disengage due to perceived futility, is a direct path to depression.
When faced with insurmountable odds, the wise move isn’t to give up but to pivot—to find a different game or arena where progress is possible. The desire for respect and significance has remained constant from ancient times to today. The path to achieving it remains unchanged:
1. Climb the competence ladder.
2. Signal value.
3. Invest in relationships that matter.
In the end, masculinity is about staying in the game—evolving, adapting, and continuing to build. Winter is always coming, but preparation makes all the difference.
