17 Characteristics That Can Make a Modern Gentleman

As family members, partners, friends, or colleagues, relationships with men can be healthier, happier, and more supportive when these men are mature. It’s great that maturity can be demonstrated by a variety of personality traits, …

As family members, partners, friends, or colleagues, relationships with men can be healthier, happier, and more supportive when these men are mature. It’s great that maturity can be demonstrated by a variety of personality traits, and to help you spot these good men, we’ve compiled a list of traits to look out for.

Resilience

Photo Credit: Ground Picture/Shutterstock

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Resilience means being able to cope with tough events. When something bad happens, you still feel anger, grief, and pain. But you’re able to keep going, both physically and psychologically.” Mature men will also be able to use setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Independence

Photo Credit: Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock

Being able to confidently make decisions and solve problems alone is another sign of maturity. While it’s important to still be open to advice and collaboration where appropriate, men who rely on their own judgment are more autonomous and have a strong sense of self.

Respect

Photo Credit: GaudiLab/Shutterstock

Treating others with dignity and consideration demonstrates mutual respect and cooperation. Mature men will also take time to understand and value people’s differences, which allows them to develop an inclusive approach. Finally, they will actively listen and openly communicate with others.

Emotional Intelligence

Photo Credit: Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

According to Verywell Mind, “emotionally intelligent people tend to be self-aware, empathetic, expressive, and perceptive. They are good at regulating their emotions and staying motivated as they work toward their goals.” Men with a high level of emotional intelligence will also communicate their emotions clearly and be able to listen to others.

Integrity

Photo Credit: Branislav Nenin/Shutterstock

Men with integrity will stay true to themselves, uphold strong moral principles, and act in an ethical manner even when faced with challenging circumstances. They will also be honest and transparent in their communications and build trust with others through consistent words and actions.

Empathy

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Empathetic men will show genuine concern for others’ well-being, as well as take time to listen and understand different perspectives. Empathy can also be demonstrated through kindness to others, and this strengthens their connections with the people around them.

Self-Confidence

Photo Credit: sirtravelalot/Shutterstock

Having trust in his abilities and decisions and facing challenges with assurance are all signs of self-confidence in men. Positive Psychology says, “Typically, when you are confident in your abilities, you are happier due to your successes. When you are feeling better about your capabilities, the more energized and motivated you are to take action and achieve your goals.”

Communication Skills

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Using effective language and non-verbal cues ensures that messages are conveyed in an easily understood and engaging way. Mature men will also engage in constructive communication with others to ensure that any conflicts or issues are communicated respectfully and they can effectively solve problems.

Adaptability

Photo Credit: Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

Adaptability is a key trait in mature men that enables them to adapt to new situations or environments willingly. This allows them to take on new ideas and perspectives, as well as handle any uncertainty or change with a positive mindset.

Self-awareness

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Having a good level of self-awareness is often shown through the ability to reflect on your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors and to understand the effects of these on yourself and others. Mature men will also be able to identify their weaknesses and seek opportunities to enhance their skills or character.

Responsibility

Photo Credit: Arsenii Palivoda/Shutterstock

Responsible men will take accountability for their actions, acknowledge mistakes, and learn from them. According to BetterUp, being self-accountable “means you’re fulfilling your obligations, tasks, and goals without excuses. And, if an unexpected challenge comes your way, being accountable means you can focus on a solution without pointing fingers.”

Humility

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Maturity can often be seen in a person’s level of humility and their ability to acknowledge their limitations and mistakes while appreciating others’ contributions and successes. This helps maintain a learning and growth mindset, meaning they are always looking for ways to improve.

Problem-Solving Skills

Photo Credit: fizkes/Shutterstock

By logically and creatively approaching challenges, mature men are able to analyze problems and find innovative and effective solutions that suit everyone involved. This comes from the ability to consider multiple scenarios and collaborate with others to resolve issues.

Patience

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Patience is a skill that anyone can learn or improve on, but men who are mature are often better at managing their frustration and anger constructively. According to NBC News, “People who are more conscientious, agreeable, and open to new experiences tend to have more patience—and people who have fewer of those traits tend more likely to be impatient.”

Vision and Goal Setting

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Setting clear, achievable objectives helps define what success looks like and how to get there. Mature men will also stay motivated and maintain dedication in their work toward these goals, as well as balance short-term actions with long-term planning.

Generosity

Photo Credit: fizkes/Shutterstock

Sharing time, resources, and knowledge with others is a fantastic trait, and mature individuals will often give this freely without expectation of return. This includes supporting others in their desires and goals, as well as celebrating their successes and contributions, which helps to foster an environment of mutual support.

Assertiveness

couple happy
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Communicating needs clearly and respectfully, mature men will stand up for themselves without encroaching on the rights or feelings of others. This assertiveness will be balanced with empathy for others, and they will also be confident in expressing their viewpoints even when facing criticism.