The challenges men face in today’s society widely differ from the challenges faced by men in previous generations. In today’s generation, men face an unprecedented amount of self-consciousness, mainly fueled by over inflated standards that are set by social media, causing men to become more and more disconnected from the truth of who they are.

Louis Skupien is the designer, creator and owner of Anvil Tactical Airsoft, a UK-based Airsoft equipment store that has featured in the largest Airsoft magazine in the world, and supplies film production companies with equipment. He is also the founder of XPAND ECOM, a company dedicated to the growth of businesses predominantly in ecommerce. He is also the host of the Talk4 Podcast, where he connects with like minded individuals helping motivate people and telling his story, which he says “proves that you do not need a formal education to think outside the box and pave your own way in this world.”

Comparison Culture Is Affecting Our Self-Image

Today, a large majority of men are failing to execute ideas or speak their minds because they feel underwhelmed compared to the standards of the “influencers” and “rich kids”. Louis believes this to be true, and claims it is the reason why many men fail to innovate and fulfill their dreams.

All too often, men easily fall into the trap of living up to a standard set upon them by society, without realizing that by being their most real and authentic selves, people will accept and respect them even more.

Maintain Self-Integrity And Focus On Your Long Term Desires

Avoiding peer pressure amongst your circle of friends and family is also commonly faced in today’s society, which seeks instant gratification and fulfillment of short term desires. Louis explains, “Avoiding alcohol, drugs, smoking and anything else detrimental to your health is very difficult when you have friends and peers all pushing you to do it too. Being yourself and having a firm “NO” stance towards anything is very powerful.”

When you have a crystal clear vision on your long term goals and desires, it is easier to make clear cut decisions that are aligned with your overall vision. To act in self-integrity means to act in accordance with your word and stay true to your values.

Keep A Simple View On Success

When it comes to striving towards success, Louis wants to keep it as simple as possible. He is determined to continue making choices that align with the greatest version of him. “I am going to be healthy. I will work on myself. I will continuously make myself faster, stronger, fitter, happier, more helpful, more grateful and smarter, until I can no longer do that. So I suspect that until my end, I’ll always be aspiring to be better, all of the time.” Louis shares.

Lastly, Louis believes discipline is a key trait to success, and motivation alone is unreliable. “If you rely on motivation, you’re going to have bad days where you are unable to make things happen. To have discipline means that routines, planning, efficiency and professionalism all fall into its category. I do believe discipline is what keeps me in check on good and bad days.”