What it Means to be a Gentleman

Tags

Fabulous, Gentleman, Glamorous, Mantra, Principles

We’ve heard the questions. We’ve heard the answers. Our fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, friends and others have their own definition of what it means to be a man. Let’s take this one step further. What does it mean to be a gentleman? What does it mean to you?

I could turn this post into a thesis, but I’m sure you don’t want to read that much. I will tell you, as a result of my experiences in life, my answer on the subject.

Being a gentleman doesn’t have one definition. There are many definitions, because life is composed of many types of experiences consisting of many situations. Obviously, the possibilities are endless.

Being a gentleman is about how he reacts. It’s about his attitude and behavior in any given circumstance. We’ve all seen it – the man that negatively exerts his authority over others anywhere. We have seen the man that lashes out for a small, harmless mistake. It’s shows poor character. It shows he isn’t a gentleman.

Being a gentleman is about your character. There is never at time or place to mistreat or act condescending and rudely to anyone. A true gentleman uses excellent judgement and doesn’t judge others. There is a difference between constructive feedback and being an outright impolite person. Accept your fate with grace if you lose. We’ve heard of sore losers, but don’t be a sore winner either. Sure, you can talk about your achievements with pride. However, there’s no need to continue rubbing it in someone’s face.

Unless you like karma’s backhand, there’s no need to be disrespectful. As a gentleman, you are to be kind, thoughtful, caring, respectful. Show that you are truly listening. Get to personally know someone’s likes and dislikes. Pay your blessings forward. You never know who needs it. Be genuine! I can’t stress that enough.

You have obligations and responsibilities, and acknowledge them timely. You don’t call yourself lazy and unreliable, so don’t give anyone a reason to call you that either. You do what it takes to get the job done in your personal and professional life.

Being a gentleman isn’t about what car you drive, how much money you make, taking expensive vacations or showing off. It isn’t about how old you are or how much you lift in the gym. You can be the physically strongest person in any given situation, but how strong is your character?

Being selfless and having humility are two thoughts that come to my mind. If you’re character isn’t strong, it’s time to do some character weight-lifting! Show the world how amazing you can be! Being a gentleman is indeed glamorous and fabulous!

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