What does having class mean to you? 

Could it be defined as someone walking into a room who is well-groomed, exudes confidence, and commands attention? 

The truth is that class is defined by much more than the way you walk or what you wear. It’s about the way you treat people and your general attitude toward life. 

Classy behavior is about confidence, taking care of yourself, and being admired by others for who you are. 

If you want to earn respect and make the right impression by learning to be a truly classy man, say goodbye to these 12 behaviors. 

1) Forgetting your manners 

Cutting someone off while they’re talking, foul language, and bad etiquette would never be considered classy! 

Are you guilty of this? 

Bad manners are offputting, and if you find yourself badmouthing people behind their backs, slurping at the dinner table, or acting out, you need to re-evaluate your behavior. 

Some might argue that being polite doesn’t mean class, but I beg to differ. 

When you’re respectful and courteous, you earn the respect of someone else. 

You don’t come across as a pushover, but you’re friendly, and you treat others with kindness. 

That’s admirable and classy. 

2) Refusing to show your vulnerable side 

Doesn’t vulnerability mean weakness? 

If I show my vulnerable side, won’t people take advantage of me? 

Society has told many men that strength and bravery are preferred over vulnerability. While being physically and emotionally strong are desirable qualities, if you don’t embrace your emotional side, you can’t make deep and lasting connections.

But how does this relate to being classy? 

Well, vulnerability is actually a quality that women find appealing. 

It’s not about weakness or questioning your masculinity but rather about showing someone your heart and the fact that you have one in the first place! 

Women feel more comfortable around men who can show a softer side.

Men who aren’t afraid to let their guard down tend to feel better about themselves. It helps them connect with others, and that means building trust. 

It’s a sign of maturity. 

So forget about hiding your sensitive side. Embrace emotional intimacy, and you’ll feel more confident in all areas of your life. 

3) Failing to take ownership 

If you spend most of your time blaming others for your hiccups or mistakes, you certainly aren’t taking responsibility for your actions. 

Classy behavior is about taking ownership. 

When you can stop shifting blame and accept your part in something you did or said, you prove to yourself and to others that you can rise above the challenges. 

Being accountable is a class act and an admirable trait. 

4) Being too controlling 

No one likes a bully. 

Trying to take control over every situation or another person is not a sign of confidence or class. 

How do you know if you’re too controlling? 

Let’s look at a few of the signs: 

• You dictate what others should do. 
• You tend to dominate a conversation. 
• You get frustrated and angry when things don’t go your way. 
• You feel the need to be in charge all the time. 
• You pick fights that could easily be resolved with clear communication. 
• You’re highly critical of others. 

In a relationship, don’t merely dish out orders. Be aware of how you treat your significant other, especially if you’re living together with shared responsibilities. It’s never a good look when all you do is tell someone else what to do rather than show some appreciation. 

You’ve got to ask yourself: 

Can I be a bit of a control freak? 

If your answer is yes, then focus on being mindful and self-assured. It’s definitely a classy trait when you can show someone respect and consideration. 

5) Feeling like you don’t matter 

If you’re questioning your self-worth, it’s time to make a serious change. 

Confidence is the key to class. 

A man who is confident is intelligent, and knows how to hold a conversation. 

It’s all about knowing who you are and feeling good about it. Your self-esteem influences your thoughts and behaviors and can help you with self-assurance in most areas of your life. 

A confident man is a natural leader who isn’t arrogant or overbearing. 

So, if you want to be seen as a classy man, you’ll need to confront those feelings of low self-esteem by recognizing your value. 

6) Never being yourself 

Pretentious and lacking originality. 

Do you hide who you really are? 

When you don’t feel comfortable being yourself, it shows. 

Perceptive people and those who know you will quickly spot pretentiousness, and this never puts you in a positive light. 

Putting on another persona or hiding behind a mask is not a healthy way to live. 

Ask yourself the question:

Why do I feel the need to be something I’m not?

Honesty is the best policy, and it starts with being true to yourself by accepting who you are, faults and all. 

7) Holding onto vendettas 

Most of us have been wronged or betrayed by someone at some stage in our lives, but that doesn’t justify making yourself vengeful and bitter about it. 

Seeking revenge or holding onto a vendetta makes you angry and frustrated. It affects the way you treat people and stops you from enjoying fulfilling relationships. 

Walking around with such a huge chip on your shoulder is petty. 

As an adult, it’s time to take responsibility by letting go and moving on. 

Think about this…

Failing to forgive someone is like drinking poison while expecting the other person to die. 

8) A sloppy appearance 

Nobody ever said that sloppiness equated to class. 

While we know that beauty is only skin deep, taking care of your appearance shows that you take pride in yourself. 

There’s no doubt…

A well-dressed man who looks after himself feels good and creates a positive impression wherever he goes. 

If your hair’s messy, you need a new wardrobe, or you want to get into shape, there’s no better time than the present. 

Investing in your appearance improves your style, confidence, and attitude. 

9) Bad choice of friends 

Think about this…

You go out with your group of friends to a restaurant, and they get a bit rowdy. They start disrupting some of the patrons and decide to leave early, so you’re left to foot the bill. Not only does your pocket take a knock, but you also get grim stares from management for questionable behavior. 

You get painted with the same brush. 

So-called friends who don’t have your best interests at heart shouldn’t be a part of your life. They let you down and, more often than not, leave you questioning your judgment and your confidence. 

You might even notice that some of their behaviors and mannerisms start rubbing off on you, influencing your character. 

It’s not easy to let go of a friendship. 

My advice is to sit down and really think about the definition of a friend. Do they support your goals, are they good role models, and do they have your best interests at heart? 

If not, evaluate your social circles and align yourself with trustworthy and classy people. 

10) Lacking empathy 

Most women would agree that the classiest trait in a man is empathy. 

The ability to relate to others by showing that you feel for them is an incredible quality. 

It’s not a sign of weakness. 

It is actually a sign of strength because it shows that you’re attentive and that you care. 

When you have class and confidence, you allow others to share their opinions without getting defensive or dismissive, even if you don’t agree with what they’re saying. 

11) Quick to anger 

Classy and self-assured men know how to control their anger. 

It’s definitely not a good look when you’re climbing out of your car, screaming at the top of your lungs, or throwing things around. 

While anger is an emotion we all experience at some stage, when it becomes frequent and explosive, it’s a serious problem. 

When you allow anger to take hold, you say things that you don’t mean. Don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. 

Stop and walk away. 

Breathe deeply and think about why you feel such extreme anger. 

Activities such as meditation, sports, or seeking professional therapy can introduce strategies to cope with conflict and emotional turmoil. 

12) Never punctual 

I get that things happen, and there are occasions when we can’t make an appointment or meet up with a friend on time, but when it becomes a regular occurrence, it’s completely disrespectful. 

If you want to be a truly classy man, be punctual. 

Plan ahead of time and ensure that you stick to a schedule. 

You’ll notice that friends and colleagues are more likely to take you seriously. 

Final thoughts 

Being a classy man is about authenticity, confidence, and standing up for what you believe in. 

Classy men are described as empathic by showing people that they care without being pushovers. 

When you have class, everybody knows it without feeling intimidated or “less than” in your presence. 

You know what you want, you’re stylish and attractive, and most importantly, you always think before you speak. 

So, start saying goodbye to those unhelpful behaviors, and you’ll be on your way to becoming a confident, classy man.