My grandfather always told me, “A classy man isn’t defined by his clothes or wealth, but by his behavior and values.”

And you know what? He was right.

In life, class isn’t a product of the money in your bank account or the brand of your suit.

It’s about respect, integrity, humility – the things that really matter.

But you might unknowingly be exhibiting behaviors that are far from classy. No worries, though—we’ve all been there.

So if you’re thinking, “How can I be a real gentleman?”, it’s time to take a hard look at yourself.

There could be some behaviors you need to bid goodbye to in order to be that truly classy man.

What behaviors?

Wel, these seven are a great place to start. 

1) Ditch the arrogance

First things first.

Arrogance is a complete no-no if you’re aiming for a classy persona.

Confidence is great, but confidence and arrogance are two different things.

Confidence is about knowing your worth, while arrogance is thinking you’re superior to others.

A classy man is secure in his abilities but never brags or belittles others.

He appreciates the value in everyone he meets.

2) Let go of the gossip

A few years ago, I was at a social gathering where everyone was engrossed in juicy bits of gossip.

You know, the usual stuff – who’s dating who, who got fired, who’s having a meltdown.

And I found myself getting sucked into it too. But then I remembered my grandfather’s words about being a classy man.

I realized that being part of that gossip circle wasn’t doing me any favors.

Instead, it was making me just another person spreading negativity.

A classy man values privacy – his own and others’. He understands that everyone fights their own battles and respects their journey.

So, if you find yourself indulging in gossip, take a step back.

Remember, it’s always better to be the person who didn’t know than the one who spread the information.

3) Stop the constant one-upmanship

You know that guy who always has to do everything bigger and better than everyone else? The one who always has a story to top yours or a purchase that outshines your latest find?

That’s not class. That’s insecurity shouting from the rooftops.

A classy man doesn’t feel the need to prove his worth through constant competition.

He doesn’t see life as a battlefield where only the strongest survive.

Instead, he celebrates others’ successes and is comfortable in his own achievements.

He knows that life isn’t a race but a journey to be savored.

Are you always trying to be a step ahead of everyone else? If so, it’s time for a reality check.

Step back, take a deep breath, and let go of the competitive mindset. It’s not doing you any favors.

4) Quit the disrespect

Disrespect isn’t just about hurling insults or using derogatory language.

It can be as simple as not listening when someone else is talking or disregarding others’ feelings and opinions.

A classy man knows the value of respect.

He understands that everyone deserves to be heard and acknowledged, regardless of their social status, age, or background.

He speaks his mind, but never at the expense of hurting someone else.

He listens actively and responds empathetically.

5) Cut out the impatience

Did you know that according to some sources the average person spends around five years of their life waiting?

That’s right – waiting in lines, waiting for a call, waiting for a meeting to start.

Well, what separates a classy man from the rest isn’t just how he spends his time but also how he reacts when time isn’t on his side.

He doesn’t huff and puff when his coffee is taking too long.

He doesn’t tap his foot impatiently in the queue or honk relentlessly in traffic.

Instead, he understands that patience is a virtue.

He knows that good things take time and that rushing rarely leads to quality results.

Life is too short to spend it stressed over things you can’t control.

6) Say no to unkind judgments

Picture this: You see a man on the street, dressed in tattered clothes, asking for help.

Do you immediately label him as lazy or unfortunate? Or do you see a fellow human going through a tough time?

A genuinely classy man knows that everyone has their own story and their own struggles.

He doesn’t pass judgment based on appearances or circumstances.

Instead, he offers kindness and understanding.

He knows that kindness is not a sign of weakness but a reflection of the strength of his character.

He treats everyone with dignity and compassion, knowing that we are all just trying to navigate this thing called life.

If you are quick to judge others, it’s time for a change.

Remember, everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

Be kind. Always.

7) Drop the insincerity

At the end of the day, there’s one thing that stands out.

Sincerity.

A classy man is genuine in his words and actions.

He doesn’t put on a mask to impress others or hide his true self.

He is authentic and true to his values, even when no one is watching.

He understands that trust is built with consistency and honesty, not pretense or deceit.

Be true to yourself and others. Because sincerity – that’s what makes a man truly classy.

Wrapping it up

If you’ve been nodding along to these points, it’s possible you’ve been showing some less-than-classy behaviors.

But recognizing is the first step towards changing.

With awareness and deliberate action, you can transform these habits into badges of class.

It’s all about respect and authenticity, toward others and yourself.

Start by observing your behaviors.

Notice when arrogance creeps in, when you’re quick to judge, or when impatience takes over.

Pay attention to how you treat others and yourself.

Question your actions. Are they respectful? Are they sincere? Do they reflect the classy man you aspire to be?

Change won’t happen instantly.

But with mindful practice, you can gradually shift your actions to align with your classy aspirations.

Each small act of kindness, each moment of patience, each honest interaction builds your character.

Being a classy man isn’t about being perfect.

It’s about striving to better oneself, upholding respect and dignity, and remaining true to oneself.