Several decades ago, being a gentleman was more about social status than behavior. For instance, level of education, financial and social status of family, and source of income were the characteristics that distinguished gentlemen from the déclassé. In other words, heritage and birthright trumped actions and behaviors.
Today, the definition of a gentleman could not be more distinct. The overwhelming difference rests in the concept itself. Whether a man is wealthy or poor, old or young, a CEO or a janitor, college educated or a high school dropout, he can still be a gentleman. The modern gentleman is thoughtful, generous, moral, and pleasant. He’s also better equipped for finding and maintaining love and moving up the career ladder.
Here are 3 easy steps to assist in becoming the perfect gentleman.
3 Steps to Become a Gentleman
1. Say “Please”, “Thank You”, and “You’re Welcome”
This one is simple. Demonstrating common courtesy is an easy start to becoming the ideal gentleman. Whether at the office, church, the grocery store, or simply at the dining table with your significant other, using these phrases to those around you can make the small things count.
Better yet, these don’t even have to be spoken! For example, writing a handwritten thank-you letter is a great way to express thanks to someone. Even flashing your pearly whites is a gesture worth making. Ultimately, these little phrases and gestures sure do add up, so start now.
2. Help Others
This one might not be so obvious, but helping other people is a major step to becoming a gentleman. This isn’t a push to try to get more men to visit their local soup kitchen every Tuesday. I mean, that’s an amazing idea if it’s something you want to do, but there are other ways to help others apart from charity work.
Helping a neighbor put up a fence, tipping well at a restaurant, or simply helping a significant other make dinner are all easy ways to assist other people. The reasoning behind these actions lies in the idea that helping others provides personal satisfaction. Generosity, no matter how big or how small, has unworldly benefits.
3. Be Nice
It seems like a given, right? In fact, this might be the most forgotten, overlooked, and most difficult task to accomplish. I know what it’s like: sometimes you come home from a long day at work and all you want to do is veg out in front of the TV. You don’t want to deal with any problems or talk about your day. Sound familiar?
Although treating others with kindness might be obvious, it can be easy to let your cranky side get the best of you. But there are solutions. Start by separating work and home life. Leave work-related stresses at the office. A home should be a sanctuary. Stay positive. As a matter of fact, don’t even talk about work unless it’s something you must get off your chest.
Not letting stress get the better of your wellbeing is one of the biggest issues to overcome in order to unleash your inner pleasantness.
Another option is finding something you enjoy, whether that’s physical recreation, artistic expression, or simply spending time with friends and family. Treating others well starts with treating yourself well.
The Takeaway
Be nice, polite, and help others. It’s real simple, but with these three steps, you should be well on your way to becoming a perfect gentleman.
Featured photo by pasukaru76
1 comment
This was an interesting article and well written. The author reminds the reader about the courtesy that should have been taught in the home by parents, etc. but if oftentimes is neglected or forgotten.
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