Every year another one of these lists come out and understandably gentlemen wonder how else they need to change in the new year in order to be a modern gentleman. I’ll let you all in on a little hint, though. A modern gentleman is subtly changing with the times. He is constantly aware of the world around him and therefore changes his demeanor to fit what is appropriate. For most men, it is starting to become more and more natural. For others…they may need a quick brush-up. If you want to not look like a douche this year, and you want to exude the confidence and power I know you do, remember, this is what makes a true gent:
Or at least condition. Period.
Because a modern gentleman should be well-read and not still think it is the early 90s and therefore cool to be uniformed. A modern gentleman will understand that the world is not revolving around him and will attempt to understand this. The reason he’ll do this is because it is cool to be in touch with your emotions, bro, it always has been.
Because nothing taught us more this year about the weird way we talk about male and female wages and the disparity between them. A modern gentleman will not only not be intimidated by a powerful woman, he’ll cheer her on in her endeavors. Also, a modern gentleman is transparent about issues that need to be discussed: such as wages, or sexism in the workplace.
And only in a way that makes him feel confident. He isn’t concerned with what he societal norms are anymore, he just wants to feel confident in his own skin. This can include manscaping or not, whatever works for you.
Of a variety he can stand. He doesn’t need to be a big drinker, or even a non-drinker to have it. A gentleman just always keeps a nice bottle around for company and to celebrate big occasions. And a true gentleman always knows the perfect moments to break it out.
And not in a way that is pandering but in a way where they’re aware of making things between himself and the women in his life equal. This can appear in any multitude of ways, the point is that he’s actively and always trying.
Or at least respects her enough to not speak ill of her. Angry mommy issues are not a chic look on any gentleman. Ideally he will also call her at least once a month just to check in.
And has read up on consent and gender issues and generally likes to keep in-the-know with all that.
That isn’t stale beer and burrito juice. A signature fragrance that he can wear to important dates or celebratory business dinners. Something that says he’s a professional.
In a field he feels best suited to be cultured in. This can include (but is not limited to) music, art, film, literature, cooking, etc. etc. Basically, as long as he has a passion and is very knowledgable about it, he’s golden.
And he understands that sometimes monogamy doesn’t work for everyone, or marriage isn’t for everyone. Essentially, he understands and feels confident enough in himself to enter into a relationship where he and his partner get to make up the rules as they see fit.
This isn’t something new to 2016. He doesn’t have to love animals, just as long as he isn’t a total dick to them either.
Because nothing is alluring than a man who doesn’t know what his weaknesses are and how he tries to cope with them.
In relationships, at his job. A true gentleman knows that apathy is passé and actually cares about what he does with his life. He knows it is just as cool to go out for beers with the guys as it is to just stay in and do his laundry. A true gentleman makes his own rules and lives his life the exact way he wants to.
