The everyday acts that prove you’re a gentleman
Words: Holly
“Anyone can be heroic from time to time, but a gentleman is something you have to be all the time.” These words form Luigi Pirandello couldn’t be more true – being a gentleman is no part time role, reserved for the occasions when romance is on the cards or when people are watching on. A gentleman is a gentleman out of choice rather than conviction; it is a matter of inherent sub-conscious rather than contrived thought, and therefore it has no time constraints.
Here are 5 everyday acts you should be doing naturally.
STAY KERB-SIDE
Street side is the right side. If you’re brushing past the railings you’ll not only appear lazy and a nuisance but you’ll be unable to come to the rescue of any straying pedestrians about to fall in to the road. Stick to the kerb, you’ll appear helpful and chivalric amid the down-town chaos.
PICK UP THE BURDEN
Nothing is more gentlemanly than taking the burden for someone else. Whether it’s a suitcase or heavily laden shopping bag, taking the time to help the less able with a heavy load can mark you out from the crowd as civil and benevolent.
OPEN THE DOORS
Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Taking a few seconds to stand back and open the car or office door to someone will not only give you a feel good factor for the rest of the day but’ll show your regard for common courtesy.
GIVE UP YOUR SEAT
Remember: “a man’s manners are a mirror in which he shows his portrait”, so although the morning commute is a tad stressful, there’s no excuse for letting go of your inner gent. Whether it’s the Tube or bus, giving up your seat to a straggling pensioner or mother-to-be squeezed between a backpacker and the carriage door will stand you out as kind and courteous from your fellow glum passengers.
TAKE A STEP BACK
Stress brings out the worst in people. Whether it’s a heated boardroom meeting or a bust-up over the Oyster Card machine, taking a step back to assess the situation before offering up a calming, reassuring resolution will make you look as confident and commanding as you feel; the facet of any gentleman.
Main photo: Shot by Adam Fussell // Styled by Holly Macnaghten
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