I feel like with my features acting manly is just performative and pointless because the way I’m perceived is already decided.
Like… yes and no. I also have a high pitched voice and a boyish face. (To the point where I’m looking forward to going grey) a lot of being mature is learning the cards you’re dealt with and playing them effectively. A high pitched voice can cut through with a pointed question. “Hey what’s your plan if the fire travels up the lighter fluid when you pour it on the open flame?”
You may not be able to tower over someone and glower, but a polite grin and fearless stare can give someone pause even if they’re taller.
“Manly” can really steer people down the wrong path sometimes. You can be manly in a pink polo. You can be manly with a polite nod. There are a LOT of very different men out there, and being kind, courageous, and interesting mean far more to most people than “manly”.
Like… yes and no. I also have a high pitched voice and a boyish face. (To the point where I’m looking forward to going grey) a lot of being mature is learning the cards you’re dealt with and playing them effectively. A high pitched voice can cut through with a pointed question. “Hey what’s your plan if the fire travels up the lighter fluid when you pour it on the open flame?”
You may not be able to tower over someone and glower, but a polite grin and fearless stare can give someone pause even if they’re taller.
“Manly” can really steer people down the wrong path sometimes. You can be manly in a pink polo. You can be manly with a polite nod. There are a LOT of very different men out there, and being kind, courageous, and interesting mean far more to most people than “manly”.