When thinking of the most manly things a man can do, what do you think about lifting weights or saving a damsel in distress?
These are not manly things. Masculinity isn’t toxic. Some masculine traits, such as being respectful and understanding, are not harmful. They allow men to be themselves without feeling like they have to conform.
A man who is at his manliest is free to be himself regardless of what others think of him.
What does being manly mean?
Being manly may not be the same thing for everyone. A decade or so ago, being manly would only be used to describe Chuck Norris or John Wayne. Nowadays, it can be used to describe actors such as Chris Evans and Hugh Jackman.
These are men who are not only attractive but also have a stance. They show their patience and understanding when it comes to fighting for what is right.
Rather than being attributes only associated with one gender, being manly encompasses a set of characteristics that distinguish a man from other individuals.
The manliest things a man can do
Being confident in one’s masculinity can help avoid over compensating for being too masculine.
1. Be a gentleman
While women would like equality, being courteous isn’t necessarily bad. It shows that you care about other people.
Being a gentleman can also be applied to other people. A real man shows his qualities to kids, the elderly, and strangers.
2. Be respectful
If a woman declines to meet you for a date, then move on. If a woman drinks with you but doesn’t want to go home, then don’t call her a tease or put pressure on her.
Women don’t owe you anything. If you show appreciation, kindness, and understanding, they’ll respond positively.
3. Be patient
It’s appropriate to be patient when it comes to going to bed with someone or when a pedestrian is moving slowly across the street.
Rushing can make it seem like you’re not appreciating what you’re doing or the person you’re with.
4. Remain calm
While men have traditionally been considered strong and aggressive, they don’t need to punch walls or yell at others to be considered manly. Instead, they should remain calm and handle stressful situations with grace and composure.
5. Listen
Being too passive while a woman speaks is not helping. Instead, being able to listen and interact with her is what women desire.
Being able to concentrate on and retain what other people are saying is one of the most manly things a man can do.
6. Be capable
It seems that there is a man-boy complex going on. Women want men who are capable of taking care of themselves. They also want them to cook and clean for themselves.
Some people think that being unable to finish certain adult tasks is manly, but that’s not the case.
7. Smell good
Some women find it appealing that a man has a natural musk. But, not bathing after exercising or working out is not masculine.
It’s gross. You don’t have to use Old Spice to bathe, but using products such as deodorant and soap can help men master certain manly tasks.
8. Be reliable
Even women who are looking for adventure find it satisfying when a man is reliable. Being reliable doesn’t mean that you have to work a 9-5 job. It means that you are there when you promise to be.
True to one’s own world is considered one of the most desirable qualities a man can possess. A man does not cancel plans or wait for better alternatives.
9. Be funny
If a man can overlook how other people view him, he is sexy. He can be as open and honest as he is without being watched. A man who can’t laugh at himself is often perceived as being down-tight.
A man who can effortlessly make others laugh is considered to be comfortable in his skin.
10. Be good with animals
Although this may seem like a personal preference, I believe that anyone who isn’t allergic to animals would agree. A man who can be seen holding a puppy or kitten or even a baby is likely to show a more nurturing side to himself.
11. Be honest
Lying is considered to be one of the most dick moves a man can make. It is not acceptable to get away with being deceitful or tricking someone. Being honest is what is needed to be considered manly.
One of the most desirable qualities a man can possess is the ability to own up to his mistakes. He should apologize and tell the truth when it is hard to do so.
12. Be self-aware
It is very manly for a man to know that he is not perfect. He will continue to improve himself and be happy with who he is. A man who blames others for his own shortcomings shows a lack of effort and self-awareness.
13. Be supportive
Being insecure about a woman’s position, height, or power job is considered misogynistic and vile. Being supportive of women in any role that they choose is very manly.
Rather than dragging a woman down to ensure that your own success is not as slimy as it should be, root on a fellow man instead.
14. Be you
Once you have actually gotten to know yourself and are not trying to copy other people’s perceptions of you, a lot of the faux-macho stuff will disappear.
Being yourself is very important when it comes to being comfortable in one’s skin. You don’t need to hide anything to be considered manly.
The unmanliest things a man can do
While there are many things a man can do that are considered manly, there are also many other things that he can do that are not. Things that were once considered manly are no longer very appealing today.
Women are not looking for a man who can physically overpower someone and know how to beat them up. Instead, they want a man who is capable of doing things on his own.
1. Insult a woman
It is an offense that no woman should engage in. It is a form of pickup method that involves a man complimenting a woman and then wishing to be associated with the individual who insulted her. Such acts will only make you look bad.
2. Mansplain
A lot of men today do not realize that they are doing this, not in bars, not at work, or even on a date.
If a woman asks you explain what your profession is, then go for it. However, if she wants to talk about women’s healthcare, then politely listen.
If a woman says that she loves fishing, then don’t try to explain how to do it. She will know how to fish.
3. Be close-minded
Being closed off to people who disagree with you is very unattractive. A man who stands his ground but lets others hear him out is a real manly man.
4. Be jealous
Ever woman wants to know if a guy is attracted to them. However, you don’t own a woman and she doesn’t owe you anything. Being insecure and jealous are two of the most common ways that men show their insecurity.
5. Be overprotective
It is very sweet to see a man take the time to look out for a woman. He can carry her groceries or provide her with an outfit for cold weather.
Being afraid that other men will try to take advantage of her doesn’t mean that you have the power to stop her from going out with her friends.
6. Fight
If you are a professional boxer, then fighting is manly because it shows that you are dedicated to doing your job. However, getting into a bar fight is not manly.
7. Smoking
Smoking not only pollutes the air, but it also puts people at risk and is unhealthy.
8. Speeding
The Fast and Furious movies are a big deal, but there is a reason why they are fictional. No woman would want a man who endangers his own life and those of others.
9. Being cocky
Being confident and cocky are two different things. Being conceited because of how much money you make or how loud your car is makes you seem like a douchebag.
From a woman’s perspective, these are some of the unmanly and manliest things that a man can do. While you may disagree with me, don’t cry when your unmanliness backfires on you.