Benjamin Franklin wrote in 1789 that “in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” We’d like to add a third: transition.  

Benjamin Franklin wrote in 1789 that “in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” We’d like to add a third: transition.  
 
We all go through numerous transitions in our lives – leaving high school, leaving home, changing jobs, redundancy, retirement, getting married, getting divorced, having children, losing someone close, facing a mental or physical illness.  
 
These are tough times emotionally, where we move from the comfort of what’s known to the uncertainty of the unknown.  
 
For men, these moments can challenge our notions of masculinity and the traditional expectations of being the provider, always being strong, invulnerable and in control. 
 
We conducted research into the state of male relationships. The findings were worrying: 70% of men surveyed agreed with the statement that 'my friends can rely on me for emotional support'. However, only 48% of the respondents agreed with the statement 'I am able to rely on my close friends for emotional support'. 
  
So, men don't feel that they can count on their friends, yet they are ready to be counted on. And at certain moments in life, that connection might make all the difference. 
  
Let there be no doubt in your mates' minds. Let them know you're there for them.

Ask how it's going, and don't be brushed off with a casual “yeah, I’m good” - always ask the follow up question.  
 
Particularly when a man you know is going through transitions and changes in his life: really listen. Hear what he has to say.
  
To highlight the importance of this issue, we're proud to have created the Movember Podcast: Season Two. This season, we talk to inspirational men from across the globe about the changes they've been through in life. We explore how they handled the changes at the time, or, sometimes, how they didn't deal with those moments. 
  
To listen to Season Two's conversations with inspirational people from around the globe, click here. If you like what you hear there, please subscribe, and share it with your friends - it really helps others find us.

Find resources and information on how to have important conversations yourself, here.