Yes you got it right, 24 ways you can become a better man this year.
Life is full of change. Nobody is perfect in every way. Everybody has what they deserve, but if you want to go above and beyond and make your life better right now, you first need to make improvements to yourself. To improve yourself and get rid of your mistakes, you must put in effort.
It is challenging to stay on the path to become a better guy in life without the right instruction. These few actions will point you in the correct path and greatly improve the quality of your presence.
How to Be a Better Man: 24 Actionable Tips
We’ve put together 24 simple yet impactful ways you can start leveling up into a better man this year. These tips range from self-improvement to relationships to wellness and more.
1. Acquire Comfort in “Being a Man”
Being comfortable in your own masculinity is key to leveling up as a man. What does it really mean to “be a man” in this day and age? Here are some tips:
Reflect on what manhood means to you. Forget rigid gender roles or trying to live up to societal pressures. Define your own inner values – things like responsibility, integrity, courage, compassion. Live those values each day.
Build healthy relationships. Be in the company of people who help you reach your full potential. Open up and be vulnerable with close friends or a mentor. Practice empathy by truly listening.
Take care of your body and mind. Eat nourishing foods, exercise, get enough sleep, find stress relief outlets. Be proactive about your physical and mental health.
Find purpose in your work. It’s not only about having a successful career. Consider how your work gives back or helps others in some way. Discover work you find meaningful.
Learn life skills. Know how to cook a few healthy meals, handle basic home or car repairs, manage finances responsibly. Become more self-sufficient.
Embrace your sensitive side. Reject notions that men must be tough and stoic at all times. Allow yourself to fully feel emotions and express them constructively.
Make time for fun and adventure. Let loose and do activities you enjoy. Continue growing through new life experiences.
Contribute to causes beyond yourself. Volunteer, mentor youth, support charities and community groups. Stand up for people needing help or defenses against discrimination.
Accept that some days will be bad days. No one is on top of their game all of the time. As you develop and learn, have patience with yourself. Regret past mistakes, but don’t dwell on them.
2. Take Care of Your Bills and Get Up Early
As we level up in 2024, one area we can’t neglect is taking care of our adult responsibilities. I know, I know – paying bills and getting up early can feel boring or overwhelming. But staying on top of these tasks is part of being the best men we can be.
Set reminders for when your bills are due each month. Missing payments can damage your credit score and lead to expensive late fees.
I put all my due dates in my calendar and set reminders a few days before, so I don’t forget.
Automate payments when possible. Many banks let you set up automatic payments for things like your rent, car loan, utilities, etc. This ensures your bills get paid on time without you having to remember.
Review bank and credit card statements regularly. This helps you catch any fraudulent charges and avoid overdraft fees. I try to log in to all my accounts once a week.
Create a morning routine that gets you up and out the door on time. I have three alarms that go off 15 minutes apart, plus I set my coffee maker on a timer so the smell motivates me too.
Prep things the night before when you can – lay out your clothes, pack your lunch, etc. Making morning decisions while half-asleep never goes well for me.
Build in some wiggle room for traffic or spills. Leaving 30 minutes earlier or having a backup shirt at the office helps me stay cool under pressure.
3. Run a Lot and Lift Some Weight
We get it, going to the gym can be intimidating. But don’t let that stop you from getting in shape. Running and lifting weights are two of the best ways to become a better, healthier man.
Here’s why you need to make running and strength training part of your regular routine:
Running boosts endurance. Start with a couch-to-5k program. Work your way up to running 3-4 times per week for 30-45 minutes. Running improves heart health, burns calories, relieves stress, and boosts energy.
Lifting builds muscle. Aim for complex movements such as rows, overhead presses, bench presses, deadlifts, and squats. Aim for 3 days a week, allowing rest days in between sessions. Added muscle boosts metabolism, supports joint health, improves posture, and builds confidence.
Mix it up with HIIT. Combine running with bodyweight high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for an efficient, effective workout. Try sprints, jump squats, push-ups, and more in 30-60 second bursts.
Improve physique and performance. Increased activity and strength training will enhance athletic capability, physical appearance, stamina, and more. Looking better can inspire you to continue pursuing self-improvement.
4. Eat a Better Diet
Here are some tips for improving your diet and nutrition:
- Eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Cut back on sugar
- Increase plant-based proteins
- Read ingredient labels.
- Cook more meals at home.
- Slash sodium intake.
- Stay hydrated.
- Make breakfast a priority
- Use smaller plates and conscious eating.
- Upgrade your snacking.
- Balance your meals.
- Limit liquid calories.
- Go easy on the alcohol.
- Take a probiotic.
- Stay accountable.
- Meal plan ahead.
- Up your omega-3s.
- Learn new recipes.
- Practice mindful eating.
- Optimize nutrient timing.
5. Take Your Lifestyle More Seriously Now
As a man, it’s time to take ownership of your health, habits, and personal development. This year, commit to implementing positive changes in your day-to-day life. From fitness to finances, relationships to personal growth, keep reading for actionable ways to become the best version of yourself.
Exercise. Getting active not only makes you physically healthier, it boosts confidence and mental clarity. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity like walking, jogging, cycling or lifting weights most days. Gradually increase intensity or duration.
Eat nutritious foods. Fuel your body properly by emphasizing lean proteins, fruits/veggies, whole grains and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks and excessive alcohol. Proper nutrition gives you energy, helps you feel better and prevents disease.
Get enough sleep. Prioritize 7-9 hours per night, going to bed and waking at consistent times. Quality rest recharges your mind and body, improves concentration and decision making, and lowers stress.
Manage stress. From work demands to family obligations, life brings pressure. Set aside time for relaxing hobbies, social connections and self-care. Try yoga, meditation or journaling. Learn techniques to clear your mind.
Set goals. Identify specific personal and professional objectives you want to accomplish this year. Break major goals down into achievable steps. Review and update goals regularly. Achieving aims builds confidence to set more.
Advance your career. Take on new challenges at work, polish skills by taking classes or consider switching fields if unfulfilled. Financial stability enables pursuing interests, providing for loved ones and gaining satisfaction.
6. When It Comes to Style, Also Raise That
When it comes to style, us guys often get a bad rap for wearing the same old shirts and pants every day. But taking some time to develop your own personal style can make you feel more confident and put-together. Here are some tips for upgrading your wardrobe and looking sharp:
Find the right fit. Baggy, oversized clothes do you no favors. Make sure your clothes actually fit your body properly—not too tight and not too loose. Getting properly measured and buying clothes specifically tailored to your proportions makes a huge difference in how you look and feel.
Build a versatile basics wardrobe. Start with neutral colors like black, gray, navy and white. Then mix and match staples like well-fitting jeans, chino pants, button-down shirts, polos, sweaters and sportscoats. With a solid foundation, you can then add trendier statement pieces.
Pay attention to the details. Things like stitching, fabric quality, and subtle design elements differentiate basic pieces from premium ones. Invest in a few higher-end items each season to elevate your whole wardrobe. Also keep clothes clean, pressed and in good repair.
Find your personal style. Once you figure out what flatters your body type and what you feel most comfortable in, develop your own distinctive look. Maybe it’s preppy, athletic, edgy, rugged, trendy, etc. Just own it with confidence!
Mix in some accessories. Watches, belts, wallet chains and other subtle accessories add visual interest. Don’t go overboard, but a few choice pieces can pull a look together.
Care for your clothes properly. Read clothing labels and wash garments appropriately. Fold knits, hang delicate fabrics and steam dress shirts to keep them looking crisp. Protect fine clothes with garment bags. And make sure your shoes are regularly polished!
7. Work Hard, Make Money, Repeat
We get it – making more money is tough. As men, we feel pressure to increase our incomes so we can provide for ourselves and our families. But chasing money non-stop is an easy trap to fall into. The key is balancing your hustle with self-care so you don’t burn out.
Here are some tips for hustling smarter:
Set income goals. Figure out your ideal salary – how much you need to cover expenses plus savings. Then make a reasonable plan to increase your earnings over time.
Pick up a side gig. Drive for a rideshare service, bartend a couple nights a week, or offer your special skills as a consultant. This supplemental income can add up fast.
Learn new skills. Take affordable online classes so you can qualify for a better paying main job down the road. Level up your abilities.
Control expenses. Track where your money goes each month. Identify things you can cut back on so more cash stays in your pocket.
Invest wisely. Put extra funds into assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate. Their growth can turn small deposits into long-term wealth.
Find balance. Hustling harder isn’t always the answer. Make sure to schedule rest, fun with friends, and time with loved ones. Don’t neglect your health.
While bringing home a bigger paycheck provides security and opportunities, it shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Strive for balance in both hustling and self-care. You’ll earn more – and enjoy it more – in the long run.
8. Improve Your Relationship Situation
If you want to level up as a man, one area you’ll want to focus on is your dating life. A lot of guys struggle with dating and relationships, but with some effort, you can turn things around.
Work on your confidence. Women are attracted to men who believe in themselves. Find activities and hobbies that make you feel self-assured.
Expand your social network. Put yourself in situations where you can meet new people, which increases your chances of meeting someone special. Join a club, volunteer, attend meetups, etc.
Improve your flirting skills. Learn how to break the ice, keep conversations flowing, use body language effectively, and show genuine interest. Mastering flirting is key.
Dress well, practice good hygiene, watch your posture and body language. You’ll make a better first impression.
Overcome fear of rejection. Understand that rejection is part of dating. Don’t take it personally.
Ask questions about her interests, let her do most of the talking, and focus on understanding vs. replying.
Don’t obsess over your flaws or past failures. Stay positive. She’ll pick up on your attitude.
Figure out the values and traits most important to you in a partner. This helps you find better matches.
You get what you give, so make it a priority to meet new people and set up dates. Fortune favors the bold!
If she says no, be polite about it. Getting angry or pushy will only confirm you weren’t right for each other.
Think about what went well and what you could improve. Apply those lessons to your next date.
Don’t give up. Finding the right person takes time for most guys. Persistence and continual self-improvement are key.
9. Develop Your Leadership Skills
Join or start a small group focused on personal development. Find like-minded men who want to improve. Support each other in working toward common goals.
Volunteer to lead an existing group or project. Step up to lead a community service project, team at work, or help organize an event. Practice leadership skills in real situations.
Seek out mentors or coaches. Connect with experienced leaders who can advise and guide you. Learn from their wisdom and feedback.
Read books and listen to podcasts on leadership. Expand your knowledge around emotional intelligence, communication, decision-making and other vital abilities.
Observe great leaders in action. Notice how skilled leaders inspire others and create unity. Strive to model their best qualities.
Value the growth process over perfection. Leadership is a journey – focus on learning and developing rather than getting everything right.
Admit mistakes and accept feedback gracefully. Honest self-evaluation and input from others helps us improve as leaders.
First, lead yourself well. As Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see.” Model strong personal leadership in your own life.
Cultivate patience and empathy. Understand different perspectives when making decisions or resolving conflicts between others.
Delegate tasks rather than micromanaging others. Trust people with responsibilities to develop their leadership abilities too.
Thank and appreciate those you lead often. Recognize the efforts of others – it inspires their best work. Gratitude matters.
10. Identify Your Mission
Finding your purpose in life is essential to becoming the best man you can be. When you have a clear sense of purpose, you’ll have more direction, meaning and fulfillment in your daily life.
Take time for self-reflection through journaling, meditation or prayer. Tune out distractions and listen to your inner wisdom. What activities bring you joy and make you come alive? What legacy do you want to leave behind? Let this self-knowledge guide you.
Make a list of things you feel strongly about or that get you excited. These could be hobbies, causes, skills or fields of interest. Finding ways to pursue these regularly will motivate you.
Write down short and long-term goals aligned with your passions and values. Make sure they are specific, measurable and have target dates. Review and update them regularly.
If you don’t find purpose in your job, consider exploring new careers or ways to reshape your current role. Seek work that utilizes your strengths and allows you to make an impact.
Purpose often comes from making a positive difference in other people’s lives. Volunteer, mentor youth, support a cause—helping others will fill your life with meaning.
Identify your core values—honesty, family, spirituality, etc. Ensure your daily choices and actions align with them. This will help you feel centered.
Following your inner wisdom to find your unique purpose takes time and patience. But living a purpose-driven life is worth the effort for the profound sense of meaning it can bring.
11. Put an End to Giving Up Your Power
Getting ahead in life requires believing in your own ability to succeed. When you give others power over you or allow outside forces to determine your self-worth, you hold yourself back from reaching your full potential.
Here are some ways to stop giving away your power and take ownership over your life:
Stop seeking approval from others. Base your opinion of yourself on your own values and accomplishments, not on what others think of you. Their validation is fleeting – your self-confidence needs to come from within.
Don’t compare yourself to other people. Run your own race in life rather than constantly measuring yourself against others. Their journey is not yours to take.
Take responsibility for your mistakes. Owning your errors rather than blaming external factors shows maturity and helps you learn for the future. Don’t diminish your power as an agent of change in your life.
Establish healthy boundaries. You teach others how to treat you – don’t tolerate behaviors from friends or partners that cross your personal lines. Your comfort and dignity matter.
Overcome the fear of rejection. Ask for what you want and accept that you can’t control the response. Let go of needing a certain outcome in any situation.
Trust your gut instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, honor your intuition. Don’t cede your inner wisdom to fit in with the crowd.
Take decisive action. Deferred dreams and goals sap your momentum. Believe in your capability to figure things out, then boldly get started.
12. Track Down Mentors Who Share Your Thoughts
As you work to become a better man in 2024, it can be incredibly helpful to find thought mentors – people whose words, teachings and examples motivate and guide you.
Identify men you admire for their character, wisdom and leadership. They could be historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. or Gandhi, or modern-day role models.
Read biographies and writings by and about your chosen mentors to gain insight into how they think and what motivates them. Studying their lives helps their principles and values rub off on you.
Follow mentors on social media, read their blogs, listen to their podcasts or watch their interviews. This gives you regular doses of inspiration and guidance.
Put their advice into practice. If a mentor stresses service and contribution, find ways to volunteer more in your community. Implementing their wisdom is how real growth happens.
Find mentors and guides in your own life too – fathers, uncles, brothers, friends, co-workers, coaches. Having personal relationships with mentors takes things to an even deeper level.
13. Reduce Porn
I’m not going to lie and say quitting porn is easy. In our digital age, adult content is just a few clicks away. But consuming too much porn can negatively impact relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. As men try to better themselves, decreasing porn consumption is an important step.
Here are some tips to cut back:
- Delete any porn apps or bookmarks. Removing easy access helps curb mindless viewing.
- When urges hit, go for a walk, call a friend, or engage in a hobby instead. Porn is often used to relieve boredom or stress. Find alternate activities.
- Talk to your partner about setting healthy boundaries around porn and intimacy. Open communication builds trust.
- Consider using porn blocking software to restrict access. Many apps allow customization to control usage.
- Identify triggers that make you view porn, like drinking or lack of sleep. Avoid or minimize triggers.
- Set goals, starting small if needed, like porn-free Mondays. Slow progress is still progress.
- Remind yourself why you want to cut back, like improving self-confidence or sexual performance. Your reasons can motivate you.
The occasional slip up is normal. Don’t beat yourself up. Just reflect on why it happened and how to avoid it next time. With perseverance, more meaningful connections and a healthier view of sex and relationships await you porn-free.
14. Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption
As men, we can sometimes overdo it when it comes to drinking. Having a few beers with the guys or a couple glasses of whiskey after work is fine every so often. But regularly drinking too much can take its toll on our health, relationships, and success.
This year, consider cutting back on the booze. Here are some tips:
Set Limits
- Decide on a maximum number of drinks you will have per week. The recommended limit is no more than 14 standard drinks. Track your intake to stay accountable.
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages. This will help you pace yourself.
- Avoid drinking several days in a row. Take regular alcohol-free days to give your body a break.
Find Healthier Alternatives
- Instead of meeting at a bar after work, suggest a restaurant, café, park, gym, or other venue.
- When watching sports or having guys’ night, drink non-alcoholic beer, flavored soda water, juice, or mocktails instead of regular beer some of the time.
Have an Exit Strategy
- Drive your own vehicle so you can leave when you want without depending on others.
- Have a polite backup reason ready for when you’re encouraged to stay for another round, like needing to wake up early or let the dog out.
Consider the Benefits
Cutting down on alcohol can help you sleep better, feel healthier, save money, and improve your relationships. You may even find you enjoy activities more when you aren’t drinking.
Aim to only consume alcohol intentionally in moderation, not mindlessly out of habit or peer pressure. Drinking responsibly takes discipline, but leveling up as a man means being in control. You’ve got this!
15. Enhance Your Self-Control
My dudes, I know it can be tough to stay disciplined on a regular basis. Sometimes we get distracted or lose motivation. But having strong self-discipline is key to achieving your goals and becoming the best man you can be. Let’s talk about some ways we can level up in this area.
Start small and focus on building one habit at a time. Don’t try to overhaul your entire lifestyle at once. Pick one specific thing you want to do consistently, like making your bed every morning or sticking to a workout routine 3 days a week. Once that becomes second nature, move on to the next mini-habit.
Remove temptations and distractions. If you’re trying to work on something important, put your phone on silent and hide it from yourself. If you’re cutting out sweets, don’t have them in your pantry at all. Make it easier on yourself by eliminating temptation.
Create accountability. Tell a friend or family member about the habit you’re building. Check in with them regularly on your progress. Having someone else invested in your success makes it harder to procrastinate or rationalize quitting.
Start a motivation journal. Write down your goals, the reasons why they matter, and words of encouragement to yourself. Review it often, especially when you feel your commitment wavering. Reflecting on your “why” re-lights that fire.
Notice and celebrate small wins. Achieving a big goal happens gradually through sticking to good habits over time. So pat yourself on the back for each little milestone along the way. Even a week of consistent flossing deserves some recognition!
16. Avoid Making Women Your Life’s Purpose
Many men go through life with one main goal—finding and getting a girlfriend or wife. While having a partner is great, making it the sole center of your world is a dangerous path. Trust me, I’ve been there.
When all your time, thoughts and energy revolve around dating, you lose yourself. You become desperate, needy, and place way too much pressure on every interaction with a woman. And that is the biggest attraction killer there is.
Instead, focus that drive on bettering yourself and chasing your own passions and purpose. Find fulfillment in your work, hobbies, friendships and faith. Become the kind of man who has an amazing and interesting life that a woman would love to be a part of.
When you build your confidence from within and have an identity outside of dating, the pressure is off. You won’t feel the need to try so hard or get attached to any one woman. And that relaxed, non-needy vibe will make you infinitely more attractive to the kind of partner you want to attract.
Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, and let relationships happen naturally. Your future wife is out there somewhere, living her life too. When the timing is right, your paths will cross if it’s meant to be. But don’t make her the purpose of your life—you need to be that purpose for yourself first.
17. Lead with Integrity
Strive to do the right thing even when no one is watching. Integrity builds trust and respect.
Be honest in your words and actions. Admit mistakes openly and make amends when needed.
Make commitments carefully and then honor them fully. Your word is your bond.
18. Invest in Personal Growth
Read books, articles or listen to podcasts daily to expand your knowledge and perspectives. Growth comes through learning.
Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Set goals to develop talents and improve weaknesses through effort and practice.
Surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow into the best version of yourself. Peer pressure can be positive.
19. Cultivate Physical Wellness
Make fitness a priority through regular exercise, sports or an active lifestyle. Health impacts everything.
Fuel your body properly with a nutritious, balanced diet high in vegetables, fruits and lean protein. Garbage in, garbage out.
Get adequate sleep nightly for optimal energy, concentration and mood. Sleep is wildly underrated.
20. Focus on Giving Back
Volunteer your time or donate to charities and causes important to you. Serving others provides meaning.
Mentor those less experienced in your field to help them advance. Lift others up along the way.
Show gratitude by thanking those who have helped you. Recognition encourages more service.
21. Mental Health
Taking care of your mental health is like giving yourself a daily dose of kindness. Find activities that bring you peace and relaxation, whether it’s taking a quiet walk, practicing meditation, or simply enjoying a moment of stillness.
Remember, seeking help when you need it is a brave step towards a healthier mind. Talk openly with friends or family about mental health to break down the barriers and create a supportive community around you.
22. Problem Solving
Think of problem-solving as a puzzle – break it into smaller pieces and tackle each one at a time. Embrace challenges with the mindset that each problem is a chance to learn and grow.
Don’t be afraid to collaborate with others; sometimes, a fresh perspective can lead to creative solutions. Stay flexible in your approach, and remember that the journey of finding solutions is just as important as the solutions themselves.
23. Time Management
Imagine your time as a treasure chest – you want to spend it on things that truly matter. Set clear goals, break them into manageable tasks, and use tools like calendars to keep yourself on track. Saying ‘no’ when needed is not a rejection; it’s a way of protecting your time.
Regularly reassess your schedule to ensure it aligns with your priorities and allows room for relaxation. Good time management is like a magic wand that turns busy days into balanced ones.
24. Continuous Learning
Think of life as a grand adventure, and learning as your trusty sidekick. Stay curious, explore new things, and never underestimate the power of learning from every experience. Whether it’s taking a course, attending workshops, or simply trying something new, embrace the joy of discovery.
Don’t shy away from feedback – it’s the secret sauce that adds flavor to your personal and professional growth. In this ever-changing world, being a lifelong learner is like having a superpower that keeps you ahead of the game.
FAQs on How to Be a Better Man
So, you’re looking to level up as a man in 2024? That’s awesome! We’ve got you covered with some frequently asked questions to help you on your journey. Let’s dive in!
How do I improve my communication skills?
- Give your full attention when someone is speaking to you and respond thoughtfully.
- Pay attention to body language and facial expressions to better understand others.
- Expand your knowledge and learn new techniques to express yourself effectively.
How can I become more financially responsible?
- Track your income and expenses to better manage your finances.
- Set aside a portion for savings and explore investment opportunities to grow your wealth.
- Learn about personal finance through books, courses, or online resources.
What steps can be taken to improve physical health?
- Engage in activities you enjoy, whether it’s hitting the gym, playing sports, or going for a run.
- Fuel your body with nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to rejuvenate your body.
How can I develop better emotional intelligence?
- Reflect on your own emotions and understand how they influence your actions.
- Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and try to understand their perspective and feelings.
- Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises.
In what ways can one improve as a leader?
- Demonstrate the qualities you want to see in others, such as integrity, accountability, and empathy.
- Seek opportunities to develop your leadership skills through workshops, seminars, or mentorship.
- Trust others to take on responsibilities and provide support and guidance when needed.
Let Us Turn It Over to You
We hope this post has inspired you to think about how you can become a better man.
That is all. Now it’s just a matter of getting to work.
Continue to grow and learn new things.
This is something you can handle.
Men, advance in triumph. Never give up or give in.
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