Welcome to Man Morning, a weekly check-in for men who lead at work, at home, and in life.
Stop treating your dreams and your family like enemies.
There’s a question that keeps you up at night:
What's best for you vs. what's best for your family?
I'm learning that these aren't really two different questions.
They're the same question with a longer view.
You skip the industry dinner to be home for bedtime.
But what did you miss in that room that could change your family’s life?
You turn down the cross-country promotion to avoid uprooting everyone.
But what are you teaching your kids about going after what matters?
You cancel a weekend trip with the guys because it overlaps with one soccer game.
You tell yourself it's the right call but part of you stays on that trip.
You skip the early gym class because it interferes with the morning routine.
You’re there, but empty.
Your family is getting your body, but not your fire.
Here’s something your grandfather probably never told you:
A man who only does what’s “best for his family” often becomes someone his family doesn’t respect.
Your kids aren't just watching what you do for them, they're watching what you do for yourself.
Are you showing them how to downplay who they are, or double down on what matters?
Are you showing them what fulfillment looks like or what resentment builds toward?
Sometimes what feels selfish is actually the most selfless thing you can do.
We’re the first generation of men who really even get to ask these questions.
Not because we’re soft, but because we have options.
Your great-grandfather didn’t have that luxury.
He worked the same job for 40 years because he had no choice.
He showed up. He provided.
He disappeared inside a job he never wanted.
Your path is a different one.
That’s not a problem, it’s a responsibility.
The people who changed history weren’t balancing spreadsheets of sacrifice.
They were driven by impact, and that became the gift.
You’re probably not trying to change history.
But you are writing your family’s next chapter.
What story will this chapter tell?
The best version of you is what’s best for them.
– Antonio
P.S. Felt this? Buy me a coffee.
P.P.S. What’s something you want to do for yourself but keep putting off “for the family”? Respond and tell me.
Forwarded this email? Sign up here.