Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
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Over the years, many articles, books, movies, and such have been written about what makes the perfect gentleman. At their core, there are many similarities. The following list is my take on all of them over the years. Certainly, I have gotten wonderful input from the men in my life and have tried to surround myself with good guys who genuinely care to do the right thing. None of us are ever perfect, but we can try every day to do just a little bit better. I hope this list will inspire men, both young and old, to do the right thing as often as possible.
I want to start out by saying this is not a contrast between men and women, at all. I am not here saying one is better than the other. In the scheme of things, both have their strengths and weaknesses. My hope is to educate, encourage, inspire, and validate some wonderful tidbits I have gotten over the years. I realize not all men have a strong role model, and I hope that these thoughts will help those who just want to be better.
This is not just about wearing the right deodorant or eating right. Taking care of the only body you have is so important. Caring for your skin, your hair, your teeth, your heart—everything. As we grow older, the things we didn’t take care of come back to haunt us in our later years. Having the foresight to be proactive is not only good for you but also for your family and those around you who care for you. You can’t take care of others if you’re not able to take care of yourself.
2. Take Care of Your Family
Regardless of whether you all get along, see each other often, talk on the phone all the time, or not, family should come first. These are hopefully the same people who are there for you in your time of need. ‘You can’t pick your family,’ as they say, so do your part to make things right and be there as often as you can.
3. Have a Plan
When you wake up each day, what are you looking to accomplish? Is it your job, school, a hobby, a business? Having goals is so important to succeeding in whatever you want in life. Nothing good comes easy, and hard work will always beat out good luck.
4. Show Respect
I’ve always had the mantra ‘you get 100%’ with me until you do something to lose it. Respect is given and received. You get what you give. If you do not have respect for others, they probably don’t have it for you. Treating people fairly, not talking down to them, and being courteous are all traits of a true gentleman. Even when others may have a different opinion, belief, or lifestyle, there is no reason not to show respect. To be clear, this isn’t saying you need to agree with everyone, but there is a way to be respectful and still agree to disagree.
5. Look Someone in the Eye When You Shake Their Hand
This is old school but still applies. This is part of the respect factor as well. Whether you meet someone for the first time or have met them before, if you are shaking their hand, look at them. Eye contact is a powerful thing. I would also add that if you are sitting, you should stand as well. People will feel more engaged and see you as a strong, respectful person.
6. Stay Away from Rumor and Gossip
A true gentleman does not get involved in the mess of others’ lives. Decline to comment or, if you know the truth, share it. A true sign of integrity is doing the right thing when no one is looking. Especially now that social media has become a place to attack or bully, let’s not engage.
7.. Donate Your Time
Volunteering has become a challenge for most non-profit organizations. Unfortunately, we are seeing less interest in helping others with their time or money. If you can’t afford to donate money, consider giving some of your time to your favorite cause. Giving back is not only good for your community but good for your soul. Grab a brother to join you!
8. Believe in Something
I would never want to push a religion or a belief system. That is something we all need to decide on our own. That said, some level of faith or spirituality will certainly help guide you internally and within your support circles. Having something to believe in and a place to come together with others could also give you clarity and opportunities to help those around you.
9. Just Be a Good Person
We’ve all grown up hearing ‘do unto others as you would have them do to you.’ Despite where this came from, this is really the Golden Rule. Just think how much nicer life would be if we all did this.
None of us have all the answers. To anything. Life is a constant search for wisdom, happiness, and feeling like you made a difference. Every day we have the opportunity to make that difference. Figure out where you want to be in life and set a course. Use your Brotherhood for guidance and support. Being a true gentleman will separate you from the pack and you will stand out as someone others want to emulate. We all could use a little push every now and then as well!
Colin Furcht – BRO Beard Products CEO
Colin has been a long-time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood.1.
Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood. www.brobeardproducts.shop
