The Standard of a Man

Ever since the Industrial Era ended, men have struggled to find genuine masculine mentors. Spoiled by comfortable office positions, our hands have grown tender and our determination has weakened. We've transformed into the classic corporate 'yes men' – spineless individuals who sneak around with daggers ready, seeking victims to betray in our climb up the ladder of monetary achievement. We might wonder, "Perhaps women will find me attractive now that I own this stylish vehicle and fancy apartment."

What happened to the authentic men from earlier times? Those who labored intensely until their bodies ached; those with rough hands and hardened feet, the kind of man that captures women's hearts instantly? The reality is simple: "They've passed away, leaving only us – the backstabbing, weak-willed conformists."

While those genuine men are gone, their wisdom endures. We can discover from our ancestors what true masculinity means.

## #1 A Man Must Be Courageous

According to Chinese thought, a man's being consists primarily of Yang energy – the core of masculine force, expressing power and liveliness. Yang moves aggressively, takes charge, and connects with fire and warmth. Women, however, embody Yin energy, the calm, welcoming force that flows through everything. Yin operates gently, receives rather than pursues, and links with moving water.

As a man, you must embody Yang energy fully. There's no room for hesitation, excessive shyness when seeking what you desire, or self-doubt. Courage is essential; it's your responsibility to show bravery. You represent Yang, the initiator. When you want to meet a woman, you must take the first step. You cannot expect her to approach you – she represents Yin. She's the reserved, open one who awaits your move. Allow her to be Yin; don't switch positions and become the timid man who struggles to say hello. Nobody ever remarks, "What nerve he had thinking she'd even notice him..." Instead, you'll hear, "That took real courage! I wish I had that confidence."

Women gravitate toward men who can serve as their foundation, someone dependable, a source of comfort; courage demonstrates that internal fortitude. Courage means 'the willingness to take action', transforming anxiety into power, embracing setbacks and hardship as natural results of pursuing your aspirations.

This principle extends to business and life overall. The British Special Air Service maintains their well-known slogan: "Who Dares Wins". With intelligence, bravery, and persistence, success likely awaits you. Consider what German philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe observed: "Whatever you can accomplish or envision, start it now. Courage contains brilliance, strength, and wonder."

## #2 A Man Must Live with Integrity

Integrity defines the gentleman's character. Possessing integrity means dedicating yourself to specific ethical standards. Others view an honorable person's promise as assurance of consistent moral behavior. Today, we often use 'integrity' to express this same concept.

Mastering integrity will develop your character more than a decade of corporate politics ever could. Your commitments must represent sacred vows you'll honor regardless of circumstances. Your promises should be more reliable than currency itself.

Establishing a reputation for integrity requires tremendous effort. It demands complete dedication to maintaining your principles and following clear moral guidelines. When successful, your reputation will grow. Others will recognize you as dependable, someone they can trust with major responsibilities and private information. Handling greater duties and confidences can elevate your life toward new prosperity and abundance. However, remember this warning: a single selfish or corrupt action can instantly destroy what took years to build.

In today's Information Era, positive news spreads quickly, but negative news travels even faster. The only prevention is ensuring bad news never exists. Monitor your behavior carefully because people notice your words, but they observe your actions.

Place your palm on your chest and declare:

"May my values guide my path, drawn from my deepest understanding of right and wrong. May my ethics remain strong and honest, directing my choices."

Now touch your forehead and state: "So Be It!"

Make today count by standing firm and courageously defending your integrity. Follow your principles. Avoid anything that might damage your character and others' faith in you. Your commitment will create better opportunities; chances will arrive more quickly and frequently. You'll experience life at its peak potential and magnificence. Choose integrity – your future depends on it.

## #3 A Man Must Be Generous

Generous means possessing a giving, understanding, and noble spirit. Simply stated, generous people have compassionate hearts. They show grace and kindness, displaying charitable and caring natures. A generous gentleman offers freely without expecting returns. He finds happiness in others' joy. He engages in fascinating conversations and shares humor to brighten people's days.

A man's generosity prevents him from taking offense easily at others' words or behaviors. Potentially hurtful comments appear as they truly are: breezes moving through branches. Like bamboo, he remains flexible rather than rigid, bending with life's pressures instead of breaking.

Mastering generosity reveals the Universal Law of Multiplied Returns, which declares: "Everything you offer returns amplified tenfold." For instance, if you disrespect someone, ten others will disrespect you. If you steal $500 from an elderly person, eventually you'll lose $5000. Similarly, if you donate $200 from genuine kindness, $2000 becomes available for you to earn – perhaps through business success or unexpected fortune.

Choosing greed over generosity, exploiting others for personal gain, and ignoring those in need only brings poverty, resentment, and failure your way. You harvest what you plant; you receive what you offer. This remains constant throughout the universe.

A generous man understands that assisting others doesn't drain his resources. Due to the Law of Multiplied Returns, it actually multiplies his resources ten times, enabling him to accomplish greater good. He recognizes that helping others ultimately helps himself.

Cultivate the practice of addressing others' challenges and you become more productive. You create and contribute beyond average levels, earning more because you provide greater value to people.

Begin taking small steps today to integrate these qualities into your personality. Assist someone struggling, honor a commitment, find courage to speak your mind. Push yourself to become a complete man: Be Courageous, be a person of Integrity, Be Generous.