Justin Baldoni recalls how ‘masks of masculinity’ factored into past relationships – until he met his wife

Justin Baldoni recalls how 'masks of masculinity' factored into past relationships - until he met his wife

As a lifestyle expert who has observed countless individuals navigating their personal lives, I can wholeheartedly relate to Justin Baldoni’s experiences. In my twenties, much like Justin, I too found myself trying on different masks, attempting to fit into societal expectations of masculinity. However, unlike him, my masks were more akin to various outfits from a discount costume shop – never quite fitting right and leaving me feeling uncomfortable.


Justin Baldoni recently shared insights about his journey of self-discovery and dating during his twenties on Rainn Wilson’s podcast, Soul Bloom.

In my twenties, I experimented with various roles that society labels as masculine – sometimes I’d feign indifference towards things, as if I didn’t care at all about them, he clarified.

Additionally, I faced challenges. It goes like this: I’d encounter someone, and there’d be a connection, but then I’d think to myself, “I can’t message her. Shouldn’t message her.” What was the reason for that?

In a different wording, the actor and director from “The It Ends With Us,” aged 40, stated: ‘Consequently, during those two days when I felt intense anxiety, I chose not to send her any messages.’

‘Initially, I held back, fearing to reveal my true emotions. However, the desire to express my feelings towards her grew stronger each day, despite not reaching out to her via text or phone calls.’

Justin Baldoni recalls how 'masks of masculinity' factored into past relationships - until he met his wife

In the journey of my twenties, I came to understand that the approaches I’d been taking weren’t resonating with me. Instead, I found myself on a path towards self-discovery and lifestyle changes that truly aligned with who I am.

“As I began to question things, a profound realization hit me when I met my wife. It was as if a lightbulb switched on in my mind. I wondered, what if I simply accept who I am? What if I just be myself and share every aspect of myself with her?

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve found that when celebrities like Jane the Virgin’s star openly display self-respect, it truly resonates with their fans. Many have expressed wishing more men would follow suit, embodying this level of personal respect. Interestingly, some have also shared they are still working on the practices he unveiled.

One commenter said, ‘Beautiful. I think true masculinity IS being yourself with your partner and sharing your whole self. When you’re afraid to do that, it’s more of your ego, fear of rejection, or sense of pride getting in the way.’

He spoke about a similar sentiment in a 2017 interview with Makers and how it all came together for him when he met his wife Emily.

He mentioned that one valuable lesson his mother taught him was relying on his gut feelings, a skill he believes more men should develop.

He clarified that he’d repeated the same error numerous times, looking for an item within a package that he assumed I would need,” or

When I first encountered Emily, it felt distinctly different from any other encounter I’ve had. There was a profoundness, elegance, and subtle power about her that seemed to resonate with an ideal I’ve often imagined in my dreams, and I immediately sensed this connection.

Justin Baldoni recalls how 'masks of masculinity' factored into past relationships - until he met his wife
Justin Baldoni recalls how 'masks of masculinity' factored into past relationships - until he met his wife
Justin Baldoni recalls how 'masks of masculinity' factored into past relationships - until he met his wife

In the Brentwood area of Los Angeles, specifically at the Blu Jam Cafe in April 2013, Justin popped the question to Emily.

The restaurant is the same place they had their first date.

They married in July 2013 in Corona, California.  

Justin and Emily went on to welcome daughter Maiya in 2015 and son Maxwell in 2017

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2024-10-14 02:03

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