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Saturday, April 2, 2011

5 Gentlemanly Gestures

The high value attributed to being a gentleman has been diminished in recent times, with the need to balance good gentlemanly conduct with respecting a woman’s equality. Many men shy away from traditional "chivalric" gestures, for fear of being labeled a misogynist. The lack of suitable role models to show us how to behave has made true gentlemen increasingly rare. 


Today, we will attempt to redress that balance, by showing you 5 of the most important gentlemanly gestures to use when you are on a date. These are sometimes subtle, but always significant, ways of showing a woman that you are attentive, respectful and well-mannered. Of course, many of them are habits which can be cultivated in any situation -- we should all strive to be gentlemen at all times -- but they are particularly important when you are in the company of a lady. Performing these 5 gentlemanly gestures will go a very long way to ensuring that your first date won’t be your last.  

No.5 Offer Your Jacket

When a woman makes the considerable effort of getting dressed for a date, practicality is not always her first consideration. There are occasions when that dress, while dazzling, simply does not provide adequate protection from inclement climactic conditions. If you notice that it is a cold or wet evening, as a gentleman you should immediately offer her your jacket. She may refuse, but be attentive to the fact that she may get colder, and do not be afraid to repeat your offer should the weather worsen. Again, as a gentleman, if you are feeling the cold, grin and bear it. The comfort of your lady is your first priority. 

No.4 Watch Your Language

A very important point which is increasingly overlooked in the modern world, inappropriate language is not acceptable on a date. A gentleman should pride himself on being erudite and articulate, and be capable of expressing himself without resorting to crude vocabulary. Not only does this demonstrate intelligence, but it also indicates that you have high standards for yourself and for the people you are around. This rule can be extended to include using overly long words that you don’t even understand. Nothing will make you look more foolish than using a malapropism in an attempt to show off.

No.3 Offer Your Seat

Everyone who has a sense of decency would not fail to offer their seat on a bus or train to an elderly person, or a pregnant lady. However, you can go one step further by offering your seat to your date. This is a good one because it shows that you are putting her welfare ahead of your own. The best way to do this is to stand up before offering your seat, rather than making the offer and then standing up. Try not to be too ostentatious, as she may feel uncomfortable if you inadvertently draw attention to her. 



No.2 Introduce Her

Much like taking a call and ignoring her, if you fail to introduce her to someone you bump into, she is left feeling isolated and uncomfortable. A gentleman will always make sure that his date is feeling comfortable, and an important part of this is having the social awareness to introduce her to your friend or acquaintance. All you need do is pause briefly to say her name, and position your body so she is included in the conversation. Even if she says nothing, she will feel more involved and more comfortable.







No.1 Hold The Door

When surveyed, around 90% of women regard this as the No. 1 gentlemanly gesture. It is a very simple one, but makes a woman feel respected. Generally speaking, you should always hold the door for someone entering behind you. Once again, it shows respect for other people, which reflects well on you as a person. An important note to remember is that you should not race your date to get to the door first; this appears try-hard and condescending. As with all these gestures, making them a natural part of your behavior is essential to ensure that your date receives it positively. 



by STEVEN SHAW

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