Steps to Take to Improve as a Man
Being a modern man isn’t easy. Between work, relationship, and personal responsibilities, it can be difficult to find the time for self-reflection and improvement. Below, we’re going to discuss and reflect on the best steps to take to improve as a man. While the list may seem simple and straightforward, it’s important to ensure that you adhere to these doctrines in a honest attempt at self-improvement.
Self-improvement takes time. Self-improvement takes work. Self-improvement takes persistence. But it is doable. The important thing to understand is that you want to improve. So long as you have a desire and want to improve, then doing so will be much easier and more willing to be accomplished.
Don’t Make Excuses
Making excuses is easy. But if you want to improve as a man, then you need to stop making excuses for your problems, faults, and errors. It’s all too easy to chalk up issues and problems to a scapegoat but one of the crucial steps to self-improvement is to reflect honestly and to stop making poor excuses for your problems.
While easier said than done, it is important to take inventory on your issues and identify where you are making the excuses. Identify and understand why you are making those excuses is a crucial step. Thereafter, you will be able to work on removing those excuses and improving the problematic areas in your life.
Don’t be Angry
Too many men are angry. Angry at their situation, angry at jilted relationships, angry at problems they cannot control. But what differentiates the men from the boys is their ability to redirect their anger. Rather than being angry, utilize that energy to motivate yourself to become a better person. Let go of your anger and begin living your life, today.
And while anger can, and does, occur from time-to-time, working on redirecting that anger and learning how to control it will help you to be a better man and an overall better person.
Be Helpful Everywhere
In times past, men were seen as a strong, capable presence. Men were caretakers and ensured the family unit was cared for. And while we, as a society, have moved to a more equal footing in terms of work capabilities, men are still widely seen as the strong, capable individuals. Again, while many expectations have changed, the core aspect of chivalry remains the same.
If you want to take the steps needed to improve as a man, then begin being helpful, wherever help is needed. Give-up your seat on the subway, hold the door for people behind you, pay it forward whenever you can. These simple steps will not only help to improve you as a man, but they will also make you feel good about yourself.
Listen to Others
No-one knows everything. Be willing to listen to others, their thoughts, and their ideas. Take other people’s opinions into account when making a decision and anticipate other people’s concerns. While a decision may ultimately be your own, it is important to remember that many of your actions have consequences.
Be Willing to Change
The old adage says that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but you’re not really a dog. As a man, it is important to be willing to change and to take on new information. Variables change, information changes, circumstances change. Don’t be so rigid as to refuse to change with these changes.
Similarly, no-one is always right. Taking the input, advice, and opinions of others will not only help you to make the right decision, but will also showcase your maturity and overall willingness to get the job done.
Keep Your Word
A man’s word is his bond. If you say you are going to do something, be sure to do it. And vice-versa, if you say you are not going to do something, don’t do it. Keep your word and your bonds with others and they will pay you the same respect. A man who has lost the trust of others has a much more difficult time in future endeavors.
Don’t Crumble Under Pressure
Pressure and stress are natural feelings. But what is important is how you act when those feelings occur. A man should be strong and clear-headed in the face of pressure and stress. Remain calm, don’t fall to anger, and handle the pressure gracefully and as a natural leader. Others will be impressed by your fortitude and you really are stronger than you think.
Give Others Respect
Whether it’s a significant other or your doorman or your assistant, always give others the utmost respect. Respect goes both ways. However, you can only really judge a man based on how he treats others when he is in a position of power over them. Don’t be fake about it, respect will garner you respect and will allow you to be a better person to all.
Speak with Purpose
Another old adage I love is that the hollowest vessels make the loudest noise. Don’t be someone who speaks without knowledge nor be someone who speaks arrogantly. Speak with purpose and speak with reason. Don’t divulge more than you need nor be so withdrawn as to cause concern. But speak purposely and let others listen to your words.
Quit Your Addictions
Addictions are, by nature, addictive. But addictions aren’t a good look nor are they enviable. Whether you drink too much or indulge in smoking related activities, take small steps daily to remove or reduce those addictions. Not only is it better for your health, you will also feel better without them.
Wake Up Earlier
Another beautiful adage, the early bird gets the worm. Don’t let the day go to waste. Wake up early, go for a run, sit down and have a cup of coffee while reading the news. Waking up early is a great way to start the day and one of the best ways to get ahead of the competition.
Avoid Gossip
Gossip is an ugly trait and one that will inevitably get back to you. Don’t be known as a gossiper, a reputation that. Will precede you and one that will be difficult to escape. Per the above, only speak with purpose and there is never a purpose in gossiping.
Spend Less, Invest More
Debt isn’t sexy and it is often much more difficult to make more money than it is to spend less. And while we encourage personal indulgences, don’t allow those indulgences to impede your personal savings and growth. Pay down and pay off debt and start saving for your future.
Get a Dog
A dog is a man’s best friend and for good reason. They love you unconditionally, they encourage you to go out and exercise, and they help relieve and alleviate stress. Dogs have it all and simply need a loving, caring home. Plus, getting a dog is a great way to meet other people and is definitely a great pick-up line.