What Goku Taught Us About Being a Man

Dragon Ball is Akira Toriyama’s most iconic creation. Born in 1984, it’s still going strong (there’s even a new series launching this year!). Over the years, this manga/anime has inspired a cascade of fandom, action figures, video games, movies… and a big part of our childhood.

At one point, the series was banned, cancelled, you name it. Viewed through today’s lens, it’s true that some elements wouldn’t pass the “politically correct” test – there’s a touch of old-school sexism, absent father figures, female characters who start off fierce and end up as housewives, a bit of gratuitous violence, older men getting nosebleeds over teenage underwear collections… you get the idea.

But still, we remember Dragon Ball fondly, a show as positive and optimistic as Goku’s outlook on life (and death) over the years. So, on this Men’s Day, let’s take a look at the lessons about masculinity we absorbed from those after-school TV sessions.

7 Dragon Balls – Life Lessons Goku Left Us on Being a Man

The Eternal Child’s Perspective:

Goku consistently ranks as the most beloved character across all anime. With his mix of unshakeable innocence, trust in others by default, honesty, kindness, and a way of acting that knows no filters or pretenses, Goku is pure sincerity and love.
The Joy of Personal Growth:

Goku doesn’t validate his existence by wanting to be the best – he’s just looking to become the best version of himself. He’s thrilled by stronger rivals because it means there’s always room for him to improve.
Training, Defeats, and Balance:

Hard work beats talent; that’s why Goku trains relentlessly. He loses, dies (a few times) – it’s how he levels up. And, as Master Roshi says, the ultimate training includes “moving well, learning well, having fun, eating well, and resting well.”
The Importance of Mentors and Teachers:

Goku has 10 “official” mentors and a handful of informal ones. From his grandfather Gohan to Master Roshi (who taught him the Kamehameha), and others like Korin, Mr. Popo, and King Kai. Each one was essential to his personal growth, each adding a layer to his journey.
The Family You’re Born Into, and the Family You Choose:

Goku’s family is as diverse as it gets – with aliens, furry creatures, former enemies turned friends, tech billionaires, ... Whoever you are, wherever you come from, there’s room for you, and you’re pretty great just as you are.
Big Things Only Happen in a Team:

Think of every spirit bomb, every fusion. The times he needed everyone’s energy to take down an enemy, or to fuse with another fighter to become even stronger – deep down, this silly choreography holds a big message about teamwork.

7. Planting “Trees” Whose Shade You’ll Never Enjoy:

Projects, family, friends, or sacrificing yourself for people you don’t even know. Your perspective will evolve, enemies (Vegeta, Piccolo, …) may become friends, new challenges will arise, and your understanding of “reality” or “the universe” will expand. But in the end, what matters is your commitment to doing good for others.

Ultimately, some people may focus on the show’s flaws – unnecessary violence, over-the-top body image obsession, even “white supremacy propaganda” But for the rest of us, looking back, we remember the examples we grew up with. Maybe they weren’t perfect, but they’re still relevant and timeless, shaping us into the Saiyans we are today, and into the next version of who we want to become.

WOWYOUNG-CREAM: It may not bring you back to life like the dragon balls, but it’ll shave a few years off your face so you can carry on with the adventures for a few more seasons.