Every Single Man Needs to Give This a Shot — Try These Book-Backed Habits First

What does "Every single man needs to give this a shot" mean? It's a phrase that's gone viral to inspire men to try habits that improve discipline, purpose, and emotional strength. But what are those habits? Where should you start? And does it concern only single guys?

You've probably noticed a particular type of guy — calm, confident, and clearly not wasting his evenings anymore. So, what's his secret? He swapped endless scrolling for Headway — an app that helps you turn your downtime into real growth.

Whether you're getting over a breakup or just ready to step up your game, every single man needs to give this a shot. Learn 30 powerful and actionable ideas that every man should try at least once. From this, you can transform your mindset and live a more fulfilling life.

Backed by books like '21 Lessons for the 21st Century' and 'You Are a Badass,' this article shares powerful lessons that every single man needs to give a shot. Want a faster path to becoming your best self? Here's what these popular book summaries reveal:

• Overcoming self-doubt and moving forward

• Tips for setting goals that actually stick

• Simple mindset shifts that can change everything

• How to become the best version of yourself

If you're ready to step up, these life-changing book-backed habits are your fast track to becoming the best version of yourself. Explore the main ideas from these books in the Headway app and prepare for a new, transformative journey!

In this article, you'll learn

• The 30 things every single man should try

• Why the phrase "Every single man needs to give this a shot" resonates

• Practical skills every man should know and do

• What makes a "Single Man's Life" unique

• Why men are seeking growth today, using data and trends

• The must-read books behind every powerful habit for men

• The one app every single man should try. Spoiler: It's Headway

What are 30 things every single man should try?

These aren't just popular self-improvement trends. Each action below is backed by insights from bestselling nonfiction books and designed to help you level up your life.

1. Prioritize healthcare

   Make it a habit to schedule regular health check-ups and screenings. Monitoring things like your blood pressure, cholesterol, and genetic risks can help catch potential health issues early. This is especially crucial as you get older because of different health challenges. This simple step can improve your quality of life and keep you feeling your best.

To help you adopt these tips, try 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear to build lasting routines, and 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle to improve mindfulness and focus.

1. 2Embrace self-care practices

   Adopt skincare routines tailored to your skin type, including daily cleansing, moisturizing, applying sunscreen, and using a grooming kit to maintain healthy, youthful skin and overall well-being. Taking care of your skin and grooming is a vital part of self-respect that supports both your physical health and confidence.

To build lasting self-care habits, try 'The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck' by M. Manson. It teaches how to cultivate self-worth without guilt.

1. 3Express your emotions

   Break cultural norms by openly sharing your feelings, including joy, sadness, or anger. Opening up emotionally isn't a weakness — it's a decisive step toward better mental health and stronger relationships. When men express their feelings, they deepen their connections with friends and family and help break down the stigma around vulnerability.

To help you open up emotionally, try 'Daring Greatly' by Brené Brown to embrace vulnerability, and 'Emotional Intelligence' by Daniel Goleman for practical skills to manage and express your emotions.

1. 4Engage in mindfulness and mental health care

   Practice yoga, try therapeutic hobbies like crocheting, or seek therapy to boost cognitive function, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Mindfulness practices help cultivate emotional balance and resilience.

Strengthen your mental resilience with 'The Gifts of Imperfection' by Brené Brown to accept your emotions without shame.

1. 5Build a fitness habit

   Regular exercise enhances your physical health, boosts energy, and increases confidence in your body. Fitness routines also strengthen mental toughness by teaching discipline and perseverance. The endorphins released during workouts improve mood and reduce stress.

To keep yourself motivated, try 'Can't Hurt Me' by David Goggins for building mental toughness, and 'The 5 AM Club' by Robin Sharma for turning discipline into a lifestyle transformation.

1. 6Wake up early and build a morning ritual

   Starting your day early gives you a head start on tasks and sets a positive tone for the hours ahead. Establishing a morning ritual creates structure and discipline, boosting your overall productivity. This habit also builds confidence by helping you take control of your day from the moment you wake.

   Get key insights on Headway

Design an energizing routine with the help of 'The Miracle Morning' by Hal Elrod for morning productivity hacks. 'Your Best Year Ever' by Michael Hyatt also helps you align your mornings with your long-term goals.

1. 7Meditate daily for 10 minutes

   Meditation isn't just a trend — it's a daily habit that can seriously improve your thoughts and feelings. Just for a few minutes daily can help you:

• Clear your mind

• Sharpen your focus

• Lower stress levels

Meditation makes it easier to handle challenges and make better decisions by encouraging mindfulness and emotional balance. Over time, it brings more clarity, calm, and control into your everyday life. 

For mindfulness insights, read Jon Kabat-Zinn's 'Wherever You Go, There You Are' to deepen your meditation practice.

1. 8Show affection and appreciation among friends

   Give compliments and show unconditional affection to deepen friendships and encourage emotional openness among men. Small gestures can transform male friendships and promote healthier social bonds. Saying things like "I appreciate you" or "You mean a lot to me" can strengthen connections. Support your bros!

Develop stronger social bonds with 'The Art of Friendship' by Kim Wier for practical ways to deepen connections, and 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie for timeless communication tools.

1. 9Develop hobbies without gender stereotypes

   Explore activities traditionally labeled as "girly," such as knitting, dancing, or flower arranging. These hobbies foster creativity, self-expression, and emotional openness, helping you break free from outdated societal expectations.

Try 'The War of Art' by Steven Pressfield to unleash your creative potential, and 'Big Magic' by Elizabeth Gilbert to embrace curiosity without shame.

1. 10Invest in household management

   Share household responsibilities like grocery planning, appointment scheduling, and managing finances. Taking on these tasks builds teamwork, reduces stress at home, and strengthens relationships with your family or partner. Being involved in the household is a way to show respect and care for your loved ones.

Become more intentional about domestic life with the help of 'Fair Play' by Eve Rodsky, which outlines a fair balance of household duties, and 'Essentialism' by Greg McKeown, which focuses on what truly matters at home and beyond.

1. 11Try solo travel

   Traveling alone pushes you out of your comfort zone and fosters independence. It builds confidence by forcing you to navigate new environments and solve problems on your own. Solo travel also broadens your perspective by exposing you to different cultures and ways of life.

To embrace uncertainty and independence, try 'The Art of Travel' by Alain de Botton for philosophical insights on exploring the world, and 'The 4-Hour Workweek' by Tim Ferriss for rethinking freedom, work, and lifestyle design.

1. 12It's okay to be a stay-at-home dad

   Being a stay-at-home dad isn't something to shy away from — it's something to be proud of. Taking on that role shows a real commitment to your family and helps break down old-school stereotypes about what parenting "should" look like. It's a powerful way to show up, support your kids, and create more balance at home.

To reframe masculinity and parenthood, try 'Of Boys and Men' by Richard V. Reeves for data-backed insights on modern manhood, and 'Raising Emotionally Strong Boys' by David Thomas to better support your kids' emotional growth.

1. 13Create a 10-year vision

   Having a long-term vision gives you clear direction and purpose in life. It helps prioritize your goals and motivates you to stay focused on what truly matters. A 10-year plan encourages ambition and provides a framework for measuring your progress over time. After all, your dreams and aspirations deserve clarity.

Get crystal clear on your future with 'Think and Grow Rich' by N. Hill for timeless goal-setting wisdom!

1. 14Embrace failures

   Failure happens to everyone, but it's how you handle it that counts. Instead of seeing it as a dead end, treat it like a lesson. Every setback is a chance to learn about self-growth and come back stronger. When you stop fearing failure, you start taking risks that really move you forward. It builds grit, adaptability, and the kind of confidence that lasts.

Redefine your relationship with failure, try 'Mindset' by Carol Dweck to develop a growth-oriented mindset, and 'The Obstacle Is the Way' by Ryan Holiday to turn setbacks into success using Stoic philosophy.

1. 15Explore new activities

   Try new sports, hobbies, or outdoor activities like fishing with your best friend, or cooking with a cast iron skillet. Engaging in new experiences brings the following benefits:

• Creates joy 

• Broadens your perspective

• Supports continuous personal growth

If you want to learn why generalists thrive, stay curious by reading or listening to 'Range' by David Epstein!

1. 16Start journaling

   Regular writing encourages self-reflection and helps you process your thoughts and emotions. Journaling can reveal specific patterns in your behavior and thinking, guiding personal growth and emotional balance. It also serves as a tool for setting goals and tracking progress over time.

To build a powerful journaling habit, try 'The Bullet Journal Method' by Ryder Carroll for a structured approach.

1. 17Read one book per week

   Consistently reading is beneficial, as it expands your knowledge and exposes you to new ideas and perspectives. It sharpens your thinking skills, making you better equipped to solve issues and make informed decisions. Reading regularly also enhances your vocabulary and communication abilities.

To stay consistent and intentional with reading, try 'How to Read a Book' by Mortimer J. Then, read or listen to an inspirational book like 'Good to Great' by Jim Collins, one of the best business minds of 2017, according to Forbes.

1. 18Take cold showers or cold plunges

   Exposure to cold water challenges your comfort zone and strengthens your mental resilience. This approach trains your mind to stay calm under stress and improves your ability to handle discomfort in other areas of life. Additionally, cold exposure can increase alertness and invigorate your body.

To push through discomfort and train your mind, try 'The Comfort Crisis' by Michael Eastern to learn the value of doing hard things, and 'Can't Hurt Me' by David Goggins to build extreme mental toughness.

1. 19Practice Stoicism

   Stoicism teaches you to accept what you can't control and focus your energy on what you can influence. This mindset helps you manage emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience when facing life's challenges. By adopting Stoic principles, you develop greater mental strength and tranquility.

To master Stoic thinking, try ​​Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' for timeless personal wisdom, and 'The Daily Stoic for a bite-sized daily practice of Stoic resilience.

1. 20Practice self-reflection and gratitude

   Make it a regular habit to pause and give yourself credit for your wins — big or small. When you take a moment to appreciate what you've done and the people who've been there for you, it can lift your mood and motivate you. It's a simple habit that helps you stay positive, bounce back when things get tough, and grow into your best version.

Build these habits into your daily life. Try 'The Gratitude Diaries' by Janice Kaplan to understand the science and joy of gratitude and 'High Performance Habits' by Brendon Burchard to reflect deeply and grow intentionally.

1. 21Master basic financial literacy

   Understand budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. Financial knowledge empowers you to make smart money decisions, avoid unnecessary stress, and build a secure future.

Want to level up your money mindset? Start with 'The Psychology of Money' by Morgan Housel — it's packed with timeless lessons about how we really think about money. Then check out 'I Will Teach You to Be Rich' by Ramit Sethi for super practical tips on budgeting, saving, and investing without feeling overwhelmed.

1. 22Learn basic cooking skills

   Cooking a few simple, healthy meals isn't just good for your wallet — it's a great confidence booster and a way to take charge of your own life. And hey, if you've got the skills to cook on a cast iron skillet, you're definitely leveling up!

To build skills in the kitchen and beyond, try 'The 4-Hour Workweek' by Tim Ferriss to hack learning (including cooking), and 'Own the Day, Own Your Life' by Aubrey Marcus for nutritional tips tied to optimal performance.

1. 23Develop effective communication skills

   Try really listening when someone talks, being clear about what you want to say, and showing empathy. Good communication like this can strengthen your relationships, help you avoid or solve conflicts, and improve how you connect with people — both at work and in life.

To master communication, try 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by D. Carnegie for building better connections, and 'Crucial Conversations' by Joseph Grenny for handling high-stakes dialogue.

1. 24Practice time management

   Learn to prioritize tasks, set goals, and avoid procrastination. Efficient time management increases productivity and frees up time for hobbies, relaxation, and socializing.

Take control of your time with 'Eat That Frog!' by Brian Tracy. It tackles procrastination and helps you focus on meaningful tasks.

1. 25Understand basic first aid

   Knowing how to respond to common injuries or emergencies can save lives. Basic first aid skills are essential for personal safety and helping others in need.

To stay prepared and think clearly in a crisis, try 'The Gift of Fear' by Gavin de Becker for mastering intuition and safety. 'The Checklist Manifesto' by Atul Gawande is perfect for applying systems thinking to emergencies.

1. 26Cultivate emotional intelligence

   Emotional intelligence improves mental health, relationships, and decision-making by helping you recognize and manage your emotions and understand others' feelings.

Level up emotionally with the help of 'Emotional Intelligence' by Daniel Goleman to master EQ fundamentals and 'The Gifts of Imperfection' by Brené Brown to build authenticity and connection.

1. 27Build a supportive social network

   You should surround yourself with positive, like-minded people who encourage growth and provide support. Strong friendships contribute to happiness and resilience.

To deepen meaningful connections, try 'Tribe' by Sebastian Junger to explore the power of belonging.

1. 28Practice regular self-reflection

   Take a moment to check in with yourself, including your goals, choices, and where your head is. A little self-reflection goes a long way. It helps you grow, spot what's not working, and stay true to what actually matters to you.

To make reflection a habit, try 'The Mountain Is You' by Brianna Wiest to uncover self-sabotage and awaken your potential.

1. 29Learn to handle stress effectively

   Adopt coping strategies like meditation, exercise, or hobbies to manage stress. Healthy stress management promotes mental well-being and prevents burnout.

Build resilience under pressure — try Kelly McGonigal's 'The Upside of Stress' for a new perspective on stress and Emily and Amelia Nagoski's 'Burnout' to understand and manage emotional exhaustion.

1. 30Volunteer or give back to the community

   Engage in acts of service to develop empathy, build connections, and create a sense of purpose beyond yourself. Giving back enriches your life and the lives of others.

Helping others builds empathy and gives life more meaning. As '21 Lessons for the 21st Century' reminds us, in a world that's constantly changing, staying kind and connected is more important than ever.

Why the phrase "Every single man needs to give this a shot" resonates

Keep reading to uncover why this phrase resonates so much and learn proven habits that can boost your confidence, health, and happiness. These book-backed strategies are designed to help every man take control and live life to the fullest — don't miss out on what could be a real game-changer.

A shift in masculinity, purpose, and personal growth

This phrase strikes a chord with both single and married men because it mirrors a bigger change in how we think about manhood today. For a long time, being a man meant staying tough, keeping emotions in check, and always focusing on productivity.

But that old-school definition is changing. More and more men are embracing a healthier, more balanced version of masculinity, including vulnerability, emotional well-being, and living with intention.

This change is echoed in bestselling books like: 

• '21 Lessons for the 21st Century' by Y. N. Harari, which explores the challenges of modern life and the importance of adaptability.

• 'You Are a Badass' by Jen Sincero, which encourages breaking limiting beliefs to unlock personal success.

• 'As a Man Thinketh' by James Allen, which demonstrates how one person can shape their destiny by the power of thought.

These works collectively inspire men to rethink their roles and embrace personal growth with intention and courage.

Character is man's greatest strength

Man's greatest strength lies in his character — the ability to choose kindness, resilience, and integrity over fear or anger. This inner strength shapes his actions and relationships, defining his true power beyond physical skills. Embracing this strength allows men to build meaningful connections and lead with authenticity.

Breaking gender norms: Why is it okay for men to try "girly" things?

There's no reason hobbies should be divided by gender stereotypes. More men are starting to embrace that philosophy, and activities like knitting, crafting, or dancing can actually be incredibly rewarding. These so-called "girly" hobbies offer real benefits, like:

• Sparking creativity

• Encouraging emotional expression

• Supporting mental health

• Breaking free from outdated gender norms

• Building deeper, more authentic relationships with yourself and others

Trying something new and unexpected could be one of the best things for your growth. This kind of change presents a different perspective on manliness. Clearly, it lines toward inclusivity and authenticity, allowing men to embrace a fuller range of experiences without judgment. 

Explore the book summaries available in the Headway app for deeper insights and personal growth strategies. Many of our summaries provide actionable wisdom behind these transformative ideas!

What practical skills every man should know and do?

Things every man should know include:

• How to manage finances 

• Cooking basic meals (bonus points for mastering a cast iron skillet)

• Maintaining a grooming kit 

• Carrying essentials like a pocket knife 

These life lessons build confidence and independence, helping you navigate challenges with preparedness and practicality.

Dressing the part: Young man's wardrobe essentials

Make a great impression — buy yourself a good pair of dress shoes, a dress shirt that fits just right, and a scent that's uniquely yours. These things are worth it! These small touches don't just up your style; they also boost your confidence and show you respect yourself, whether you're meeting someone new or heading into an important meeting.

The importance of developing good habits early

When you're single, you've got a unique chance to work on yourself — your health, mental game, and social skills — before jumping into a serious relationship. Building these habits makes your life richer today and prepares you to be the kind of partner, husband, or dad who's truly there when it counts.

Navigating social media and self-image

Social media can influence your self-esteem, making you feel like you're always coming up short against impossible standards. For young men, the important thing is to stay grounded. 

Always know who you are, value your worth, and focus on genuine connections instead of perfect online images. This mindset can help protect your confidence and keep your emotions steady, no matter the noise around you.

How men can improve relationships

Men do better by communicating openly, showing appreciation, and sharing responsibilities. Being a nice guy who listens and supports strengthens bonds and fosters mutual respect. Small acts of kindness and honesty build trust and deepen connections with partners, friends, and family.

What makes a "Single Man's Life" unique?

Being single isn't a gap in your life story — it's a powerful chapter of growth. You have freedom over time, space to make decisions independently, and the ability to focus on your personal development without compromise.

Instead of waiting for the "right relationship," you have the opportunity to become the right person — mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually. This season is where your identity is shaped and your habits are forged. It's your chance to experiment with your lifestyle, push your limits, and invest in your long-term happiness.

Whether you're building a career, traveling the world, or learning how to cook your own meals. And remember: You don't need a partner to live a full, meaningful life!

Why men are seeking growth today: Data and trends

There's a noticeable change happening: More men are embracing personal growth. From emotional intelligence to therapy, solo travel to journaling, today's man is actively investing in his well-being — and the data backs it up.

• Studies show that over 60% of men now say personal development is essential to their identity.

• The global men's mental health market, including books, apps, and coaching, is rapidly expanding.

• Men are increasingly participating in online communities, podcasts, and courses focused on vulnerability, purpose, and growth.

This cultural evolution isn't about "softening up." It's about being better — stronger mentally, emotionally aware, more present, and more purpose-driven. And if you're single, there's never been a better time to use your independence to fuel this transformation.

Advice for young men starting their journey

Embrace self-improvement, be patient with yourself, and know how to balance ambition with kindness. Remember, every man started as a young boy learning the ropes — give yourself grace and keep striving for your best. Your life is a story worth writing with intention and courage. 

Additionally, having positive people and mentors in your corner makes all the difference. They help keep you on track and push you to be your best. Don't be afraid to ask for help or admit when unsure — true growth comes from staying open and humble. Getting into good habits early, like managing your time and taking care of your health, sets you up for success in the long run.

Also, remember to keep an open mind and stay curious — life will throw stuff your way, but how you handle it says a lot about who you are. And don't forget: Respect matters. Treat others — and yourself — with kindness. That's how you build real trust and meaningful connections along the way.

What are the must-read books behind every powerful habit for men?

The powerful habits every man needs to try are inspired by some of the most influential nonfiction books on personal growth, mindset, and success. Don't have hours to read? No problem. The Headway app breaks everything down into quick, 15-minute summaries so you can get the good stuff fast, even by listening. If you're ready to grow, these are the ones to check out: 

• '21 Lessons for the 21st Century' by Y.N. Harari 

• 'You Are a Badass' by Jen Sincero

• 'Your Best Year Ever' by Michael Hyatt 

• 'Good to Great' by Jim Collins

• 'As a Man Thinketh' by James Allen

Taking in the main lessons from these books will give you the tools to build habits that improve your health, relationships, mindset, and overall life. We also have many self-help book summaries you can try to kick off your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself.

Is Headway the app every single man should try?

If you're ready to transform your life by adopting the powerful habits every single man needs to give a shot, there's no faster or easier way than using Headway. Our innovative microlearning app delivers concise, 15-minute summaries of bestselling personal growth books, giving you instant access to the wisdom and actionable strategies behind each habit.

Instead of spending hours reading or searching for the right advice, Headway puts the key insights into your pocket. In a bite-sized format, you can explore and try all these life-changing mindsets and habits at your own pace, fitting personal growth into even the busiest schedules.

These summaries are full of practical, confidence-boosting advice that actually works. And with Headway, you don't need hours to get the message — just 15 minutes and you're good. Whether you're looking to feel better, think clearer, or show up stronger in life, Headway makes it easy to grow a little every day.

Seriously, every single man should give this a shot.

Our app breaks everything down into easy-to-understand bites. Don't wait — grab the Headway app today and unlock your full potential. Every single man needs to give this a shot — and Headway is here to ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity. A stronger, healthier, and more fulfilled you await!