Raising boys to be gentlemen in 2024

EricNew Dad

2w ago1 min read

My dad taught me to always open doors for ladies, respect your word, and stand up for what's right even when it's hard. Now I'm trying to pass that on to my two boys and sometimes I feel like I'm fighting the whole culture. They see content online that's teaching them the opposite. How do you all balance teaching traditional values without coming across as out of touch? I want them to be their own men but with some real character.

8 comments209 views

Comments(8)

JJoshuaNew Dad2w ago

Your dad sounds like a good man. I'm trying to teach my boys the same stuff. It's getting harder when everything around them is telling them different messages, but I think it matters.

SSteveRegular2w ago

Standing up for what's right is the real challenge. It's easy to open doors. It's harder when doing the right thing costs you something. How are you handling that with your boys?

NNeilNew Dad2w ago

This resonates with me man. Between coaching and work I don't always feel like I'm getting it right, but moments like teaching them to stand up for what's right even when it's tough - that's the stuff that matters.

SSam T.Regular2w ago

Your dad sounds like he nailed it. I'm doing the same thing with my boys and honestly the door-opening part has already stuck with my oldest. The respect your word thing is what I'm really focused on now.

JJoeRegular2w ago

I try to do this with my boys too but honestly I think the bigger thing is modeling it yourself. They're watching how YOU treat people and what you actually DO, not just what you say. The words matter but the actions matter way more.

DDavid R.Regular2w ago

The door thing is something I always do, never thought twice about it. My oldest is starting to pick it up naturally just from seeing me do it. Think that's the best way to teach these things.

BBrian M.New Dad2w ago

Being a gentleman doesn't have to mean old school though. It's more about respect, kindness, and integrity. Teaching your son to be a good human who treats everyone with dignity is really what it's about. The door thing is just a nice touch.

SSean M.Regular2w ago

Your dad sounds like he raised you right. Teaching boys those values is even more important now because so many kids aren't getting that foundation. Door holding, keeping your word, standing up for what's right... those are timeless. Good on you for passing it on.