7 Unspoken Rules Every Man Should Know

There are certain things a man should know — not because someone told him, but because life has quietly taught him.

The unspoken rules.

They’re not plastered on billboards or shouted across TikTok. You won’t find them in a manual (unless you’ve stumbled upon a particularly charming blog, in which case — welcome). These are the little, timeless habits that say a lot without saying anything at all.

So here’s my short list. Seven, to be exact:

1. Always say thank you.
Not just when someone’s watching. A proper thank you — eye contact and all — never goes out of style. Bonus points for handwritten notes. Yes, they still exist.

2. Polish your shoes.
You can wear the best blazer in the world, but if your shoes look like they’ve been through three music festivals and a mild flood, no one’s taking you seriously. Clean. Polish. Respect the leather.

3. Don’t drown in your cologne.
Wear a scent that suits you — ideally subtle, possibly woody, never overwhelming. Two spritzes, max. Leave trails of intrigue, not clouds of chemical warfare.

4. Hold the door.
It’s not about gender. It’s about decency. If someone’s behind you, hold it. If someone’s ahead, offer to take it. Doors open for people who open doors.

5. Clean your nails.
Doesn’t matter if you’re in finance, fitness, or fixing motorcycles — dirty fingernails aren’t it. A quick scrub and a tidy trim go a long way.

6. Show up on time.
Not 20 minutes early (you’ll look odd), but not five minutes late either. Being punctual shows you value your time — and more importantly, theirs.

7. Tip properly.
If the service was good, tip well. No drama, no calculator, just a quiet nod of appreciation. People always remember a good tipper.

These rules aren’t about being old-fashioned. They’re about being aware. Thoughtful. A man who’s quietly got it together — and doesn’t need to tell everyone about it.

If you're still reading this and nodding along, well — I think we're going to get on just fine.