Seven Traits

Over the years, I’ve discovered seven traits that real men possess other than 
faith in God: 

Integrity – Integrity is more than being honest. It’s a lifestyle set on 
striving towards moral excellence. Real men say what they mean and mean what 
they say. They are the same person whether or not others are watching. They are 
trustworthy, dependable, and unwavering.

Compassion – Compassion is sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress 
together with a desire to alleviate it. In other words, you feel compelled to 
help someone who is hurting. Men aren’t often viewed as being compassionate, but 
it is a trait that helps us to become more connected to the people around us. 
Real men turn their compassion into service and work to make the world a better 
place.

Confidence – Real men are confident. Many people confuse confidence with 
arrogance and self-centeredness. Real men know the difference. Confidence is 
about being self-assured and self-aware. Confident men have faith in their 
abilities and knowledge. They don’t need to tear others down in order to build 
themselves up. They earn people’s trust with their radiant, inner strength. When 
a they walk into the room, everyone takes notice.

Self-control – Hardly a day goes by without a news report about some 
high-profile man who has been destroyed by sex, money, and/or drugs. Too many 
men lack self-control, but it is the foundation of a virtuous life. Self-control 
starts with focus and ridding yourself of distractions. Doing this isn’t easy 
because temptations lurk around every corner. Real men are able to tame their 
desires and channel that energy into positive pursuits.

Perseverance – Perseverance is the product of self-control. It is courageous 
resistance against difficult circumstances. Perseverance is only developed 
through trials. Real men endure the trials and emerge stronger. They never give 
up.

Bravery – Bravery is the courage to do what is right regardless of the 
circumstances. Nothing is ever accomplished with an attitude of passivity. Real 
men stand up in the face of adversity.

Humility – Today’s breed of young men loves to let everyone know how much 
swagger they have. They thump their chests and proclaim to the world, “I’m a Big 
Deal. Look at me!” Real men understand the value of being humble and letting 
someone else’s light shine. They realize that humility is more endearing than 
self-importance. Humility indicates that you are ridding yourself of the poison 
of self-centeredness. Besides, humility softens the blow when someone knocks you 
off your pedestal. 

Many men have or need more than just these few traits.