biography of a good man

The 27+ Best Biographies for Men to Read that Will Inspire and Motivate You to Become Your Strongest Self

Biographies, unlike self-help books, offer an almost unrestricted look into the lives of our world’s most prolific men and women and give us the rare opportunity to see how they  actually  thought and behaved…not just their theories and “ideas” about living a good life.

In my own journey, I’ve found biographies to be one of the most invaluable sources of wisdom and inspiration and one of the most powerful weapons in my personal development arsenal.

And today, I’m going to share the 27+ best biographies for men to read.

These biographies will not only inspire and motivate you, but they will educate you and help you become a more well-rounded man. You’ll get an insiders look into the mind’s of our species most successful individuals and walk away with a plethora of ideas for improving and optimizing your own life.

Let’s dive in.

The 27+ Best Biographies for Men to Read that Will Help You Become a Grounded Man

1. Leonardo DaVinci by Walter Isaacson 

But the intrigue of his life goes far beyond his accomplishments and inventions. In this excellent biography, easily one of the best biographies for men, Walter Isaacson gives a more complete view of DaVinci’s life, struggles, and accomplishments and with it, reveals powerful insights for living an exceptional life and rising to the top of your given field. A must-read for men of all ages.

2. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson 

In yet another best-selling biography from Walter Isaacson, the veil behind Jobs life and legacy is lifted and we are once more treated to a rare glimpse of the good, the bad, and the ugly responsible for one of our society’s most lauded men.

3. Sherman: Soldier, Realist, American by B. H. Lidell Hart 

Providing an excellent character study in the value of humility and calm strategy, Hart–a man responsible for some of the greatest books on military theory–gives readers a gripping and paradigm-shifting account of one of the most underrated leaders in military history. And every man would be well served to study it.

4. Edison by Matthew Josephson 

With an expertly crafted narrative and an uncanny blend of the personal, political, and scientific realities responsible for Edison’s legacy, Josephson’s biography stands out amidst the sea of dull recollections and over-enthused tomes that attempt to recount Edison’s life.

5. Eisenhower in War and Peace by Jean Smith 

In Eisenhower in War and Peace, author Jean Smith superbly shares a narrative that is both compelling and comprehensive and offers one of the most complete accounts of Eisenhower for the 21st century.

6. Socrates a Man for Our Times by Paul Johnson

7. The Power Broker by Robert A. Carro

Providing a rare glimpse into the history of both Moses and his city, The Power Broker is one of the best biographies of all time and will keep you engaged from beginning to end.

8. Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand 

Whatever challenges you are facing in your life…however bad the hand life has dealt you…this excellent biography will challenge your assumptions about what’s possible and put into perspective even the grimmest of obstacles.

9. Napoleon: A Life by Andrew Roberts

If you read carefully, you’ll walk away from this biography with invaluable insights into the greatest battle of all, the battle of your life, and discover uncommon strategies for winning the war on all fronts.

10. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer 

If you’ve ever felt the call of the wild and desired to eschew your materialistic lifestyle in pursuit of an authentic life, this incredible biography will both inform and inspire your journey (and likely leave you in tears).

11. Churchill: A Life by Martin Gilbert 

In his remarkable biography of Churchill, Martin Gilbert offers us one of the most cogent and complete records of Churchill’s life and with it, reveals powerful life lessons and personal strategies for achieving the impossible. It’s one of the best biographies for men today and one of my personal favorites.

12. My Personal Best by John Wooden 

An invaluable biography that is equal parts a personal memoir, self-help manifesto, and guide to high-performance leadership, My Personal Best is a must read for every man looking to take himself and his life to the next level.

13. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi 

Truly an ineffable masterpiece, words simply cannot capture the gravity or importance of this biography. There’s a reason that the smartest and most accomplished men and women in the world count this book as one of the most important reads of their lives. And I’ll suffice it to say that every man, regardless of age, occupation, or ambition, must read this biography at some point in their life.

14. Not Fade Away by Laurence Shames 

15. Titan by Ron Chernow 

Driven by his desire to please his father, Rockefeller was a quintessential case study in obsession and ambition and Ron Chernow’s unprecedented recounting of his life (based on previously unreleased documents) offers readers one of the most gripping and insightful biographies of all time.

16. The Autobiography of Malcolm X

Though he was known for his firebrand and often violent views on racism, integration, and religion, Malcolm was a far cry from the man the modern media portrays him to be. And his autobiography (finished by Alex Halley) offers one of the most important books about American history and a disturbingly timely discussion about the racial and political realities of our nation.

17. The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin 

And in his autobiography, he offers an intriguing (if biased) look at both his story and his processes for performance. I believe this is one of the all-time best biographies for men and is something that should be read, re-read, and then re-read again.

18. Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson 

19. Washington by Ron Chernow 

When you put this biography down, you’ll walk away with a greater understanding of our first President and invaluable life lessons in leadership, bravery, and ethics.

20. Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie 

What’s most striking about this work, however, is the incisive and highly relevant views Carnegie held about capitalism, wealth, and the obligation of the wealthy to serve those less fortunate (a belief evidenced by the massive sums of money Carnegie donated in his later years). For any young man looking to make something of himself, this is one of the best biographies to read.

21. The Tycoons by Charles Morris

Few biographies offer a more comprehensive understanding of how the American super economy was created and, more importantly, the specific traits, habits, and thought processes that lead to such growth. For those of you looking to make your fortune and leave your own dent in this universe, this is a must-read biography.

22. A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway 

And A Moveable Feast offers a rare glimpse into the man’s mind as he recounts his time in Paris and details many of the real-life stories responsible for his greatest works. This is a must-read biography for men of any age looking to inject more aliveness, adventure, and joy into their daily lives.

23. American Sniper by Chris Kyle 

In his widely acclaimed and criticized autobiography, Kyle recounts his war stories and offers readers a rare glimpse into the realities of the War on Terror and the true cost of our freedoms. Whatever your opinion on the man might be, this biography is well worth reading and will, if nothing else, keep you entertained and enthralled from beginning to end.

24. Chronicles by Bob Dylan 

25. Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela 

This autobiography will move you in a way that few works of literature can and will leave you reconsidering your personal values, your mission, and your very identity as a human being. A must-read biography for men.

26. The Good Neighbor by Maxwell King 

A champion of compassion, equality, and education, Fred Rogers will go down in history as one of the greatest figures in American entertainment and The Good Neighbor provides an insightful and endearing look into the life of one of America’s most beloved characters.

27. John Adams by David McCullough 

Serving as both a biography and a political, religious, and social expose, John Adams is one of the best biographies ever written about one of the most fascinating Americans who ever lived.

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25 Biographies Every Man Should Read

By The Editors of GQ

KING OF THE WORLD by David Remnick (1998)

The greatest boxer of all time got treatment from a narrative-journalism heavyweight. The Champ had been written about as much as any athlete ever. But David Remnick did more than tell a story narrowly focused on Ali's individual experiences with victory and vice. Rather, he crafted a broad social and political narrative, then placed the boxer within it. It's a biography of a man as much as it is a biography of a myth"an American myth," Remnick writes, "who has come to mean many things to many people: a symbol of faith, a symbol of conviction and defiance, a symbol of beauty and skill and courage, a symbol of racial pride, of wit and love."

OPEN by Andre Agassi (2009)

This is the psychologist-couch confessional (that's really how Agassi and his collaborator, J. R. Moehringer, worked through it) that all great sports books strive to be. The abuse of youth training; the depths of disappointment and heights of ecstasy, recounted with acuity; the comings-clean of celebrity dating and crystal meth. (It will put you at ease that you were never the star athlete you'd hoped you'd be.) This would be a crazy book from any athlete; that it's from one of the most talented and popular tennis players in history makes it all the more irresistible.

SANDY KOUFAX

SANDY KOUFAX: A LEFTY'S LEGACY by Jane Leavy (2002)

It will make you fall back in love with baseball. In addition to being unflappable in demeanor, insurmountable in technical talent, and impenetrable in his personal privacy, Sandy Koufax pitched arguably the greatest game of all time. And it's the interplay of these braided narrativesthe life story of one of the best-ever lefties and the granular ticktock of his perfect outing in September 1965that gives Jane Leavy's bio cinematic lift. Koufax was a model of high-order talent and humility, and this book is a blueprint for living a life driven by both those virtues.

WHEN PRIDE STILL MATTERED by David Maraniss (1999)

He's the best-known football coach of all time. But his brand of leadership transcended his profession. At times he sounded like a general, a lawyer, a priest, and he might've been any of those, too. That universality lifted him to the status of deitythe most quoted and misquoted sports figure ever. This book roots him in his rightful place. Come for the football; stay for the nuanced "everything" that "winning isn't."

By Jack King

I AM ZLATAN by Zlatan Ibrahimovi (2012)

No book serves as a more efficient gateway drug to soccer fandom than this one. If Andre's is the shrink-couch confessional, Zlatan's is the barstool confessional. Ibrahimovi is one of the world's best soccer playersand easily its most colorful. Born in a Swedish housing project, he's a brutish attacker with unmatched instincts for goal-scoring. As well, he loves fast cars, reggae, body tats, trash-talking, calling things "advanced bullshit," and speaking in the third person. Even more fantastic is the fact that he put out the book when he was mid-career. He divulged all his secrets and burned all his bridges, even though he'd have to cross back over them again. He'd be your favorite athlete if he lived in America (which really could be his next stop).

JOE DiMAGGIO by Richard Ben Cramer (2000)

Joe DiMaggio was the ultimate ballplayer during the two decadesthe '30s and '40swhen the national gravitation toward baseball and the wattage of its stars was greater than the current-day NFL, NBA, and Hollywood combined. (And then he went ahead and married Marilyn Monroe.) It doesn't take an extraordinary writer and researcher to make Joe DiMaggio's crazy mix of public-private come off, but Richard Ben Cramer happens to be one.

EVERY LOVE STORY IS A GHOST STORY by D. T. Max (2012)

More than any other recent writer, DFW will go down as having influenced writers of future generations. As intelligent and inventive as any practitioner of both fiction and non-, he was purposefully enigmatic, some combination of glowing and wounded, prone to both witheringly awkward interviews and fantastic retorts. Wallace wrote about himselfmore than he probably meant tobut he could only stare in the mirror so long before turning away, or worse. D. T. Max, his first of surely many biographers, picked up the pieces and turned the mirror into a window. We'll long be looking through it, seeking a glimpse.

DE KOONING by Mark Stevens and Annalyn Swan (2004)

De Kooning's toilsome life defies all the stereotypes of what it means to be a "modern master." Sure, aspects of the Abstract Expressionist's life fit the bill of an artist's biographyhe made the scene at the Cedar Tavern with Rothko, Kline, and Rauschenberg, kept up an intense rivalry with Pollock, drank himself into the gutter, and swapped out lovers like painting aprons. But everything else about his story will force you to revise the way you think genius works. Learn to be great, but mostly learn to be patient. He'd grunt and scrape at his canvases for months at a time, painstakingly inching his way toward immortality.

OUT OF SHEER RAGE by Geoff Dyer (1998)

This is the least conventional biography on the list. It's not really even a bio, is it? A book about the extraordinary English writer D. H. Lawrence, it's as much about Geoff Dyer's inability to write that book. We hear you; that sounds like an abysmal premise. But Dyer is in much greater and fantastically entertaining control than he lets on. What he finds in the gaps between his own life and his subject's yields writing on the kinds of human Q's & A's he (Lawrence) and he (Dyer) share with each other and any reader.

LIFE by Keith Richards (2010)

Keith. Because: the Stones. Because: Mick Charlie Ronnie Brian Bill & Bobby. Because: Smack Jack & Coke. Because: Ronnie Anita & Patti. Because: Altamont Hyde Park & Nellcte. Because: open G tuning & the blues. Because: Two bars of "Malaguea" and you're in. This is the best book ever written about sexdrugsrocknroll. Keith Richards is its Gabriel, because who else could it be?

I DREAMED I WAS A VERY CLEAN TRAMP by Richard Hell (2013

Punk rock was as much an attitude as a musical genre, and Hell was the man who first articulated the look, the sound, and the feel. He was also as good a writer as he was a musicianthe poet laureate of punk, as proven line by line here. If you're interested in the history of rock 'n' roll, or of downtown New York, or of American cool, you need to read this book as much as you need to hear any of his records.

LAST TRAIN TO MEMPHIS by Peter Guralnick (1994) & CARELESS LOVE by Peter Guralnick (1999)

Elvis is among the most American of all Americansup there with Abe Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and Henry Fordand after this two-volume masterpiece, nobody needs to write his biography ever again. Just be forewarned: It gets dark. Goddamn, does it get dark. But it's a journey worth taking, because you begin to understand that Elvis is basically American Jesusthe sacrificial lamb who lived our national fall from grace. From guffawing mama's boy to pop king, to an inglorious death facedown in vomit beside the crapper at Graceland.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY by Morrissey (2013)

That voicewarbling, wounded, or spitting acid, and often all three at oncetranslates pitch-perfectly to the page, as Moz, in full-throated lyrical melodrama, relives the afflictions that created him: the knuckle-rapping horrors of Dickensian school days in gray Manchester, the elusive sexual promises of '70s glam and punk, the never-good-enough success of the Smiths, and pinch-me solo fame. Around every mundane corner, misery lurks in the form of judges, suits, and so-called friends as life, it seems, conspires to stifle him. Of course, life didn't.

CHRONICLES: VOLUME ONE by Bob Dylan (2004)

The most written-about songwriter of all time put an end to others' attempts by writing the weirdest, most wonderful version himself. Dozens of writers had tried before, but it took Dylan doing Dylan to get to the heart of it: impressionistic line-writing, fractured chronologies, rivers of metaphor, elliptical anecdotes, andfor those looking for a little more grounding than the poetry providescameo-filled set pieces of the most satisfying sort. Rarely is there a moment when we learn how A led directly to B, but there's a concerted effort to relate not how something was but how something felt/seemed/appeared to have transpired. The sensation inside as a song began to blossom, the bite of winter slipping through his Village floorboards, the thinking made possible by a motorcycle ride along the bayouin the present or in the past or whenever, it's hard to tell. We're never quite fixed in one placeit's one man seeing and feeling kaleidoscopically, the clearest sense yet of the life of that man. Better still: Volume two is still on the slate.

DINO by Nick Tosches (1992)

Dino was the first tell-all about this inscrutable starit's also the best. Tosches pulls no punches in this unauthorized biography, which traces the Rat Packer from his early days as Dino Crocetti, a teenage gambler in Ohio, to Dean Martin, a marquee name with a $500 nose job, a cross-media sensation before "cross-media" was a thing. But Tosches is interested in more than fantastic celebrity; in unsparing detail, he traces Dino's sad, slow decline into a twilight of pills and booze. The result is a lesson in what not to do when you reach the end of your prime.

STORIES I ONLY TELL MY FRIENDS by Rob Lowe (2011)

Hardly any actors pull this off. It takes a lot of nerve to overhype your own celebrity memoir by calling it Stories I Only Tell My Friends. But Rob LoweRob Lowe! the Handsome Guy from DirecTV ads! he was in Tommy Boy !delivers on turning the inside way out. Lowe avoids the Chicken Soup sentimentalities that plague so many celeb memoirs and veers toward unflinching self-reflection and a tabloid reporter's eyehis own tabloid moments included. If every famous person told his tales the way Lowe does, the bookstore section with all the famous faces on the covers would be a much more appealing place to get lost.

ALFRED HITCHCOCK: A LIFE IN DARKNESS AND LIGHT by Patrick McGilligan (2003)

He's the most widely examined director of all time, and he's still wildly misunderstood. McGilligan's book is a master course for anyone interested in moviemaking, a boring-down into the relationships with Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, and company, and a more suitably complex building-out of the 2-D perversions (and stalker accusations) that have come to cloud his legacy in recent decades. It's a hugely big book that never feels longthe definitive take on the master.

THE KID STAYS IN THE PICTURE by Robert Evans (1994)

Evans wrote the Great Hollywood Memoir. A "half-assed actor" in the '50s, he became the head of Paramount Pictures. _Rosemary's Baby, Love Story, The Godfather, Chinatown_that sort of rap sheet. He was the consummate Hollywood cadkisser-and-teller of Gardners and MacGraws (he's been married seven times), wheeler-dealer of Marlons and Jacks, and film inspiration for Dustin Hoffman in Wag the Dog. He strove to be an unapologetic original, a true north he followed to heights from which he had a singular view of the industry. Today's straight-shooting, publicity-choked middle ground will make you restless once you've tasted this.**

** Listen to This Life

The Kid Stays in the Picture is the perfect book off which to pivot to mention that many of these biographies and memoirs are also exceptional audiobooks. Especially since actors and musicians very often read their own. ( Life, for example, features Keith Richards, Johnny Depp, and musician Joe Hurley.) Still, Evans is the ultimate. For those who don't know, he's got a voice that sounds like eight-millimeter film, swimming-pool chlorine, starlet perfume, and melted-down Oscar gold rolling around together in a dryer. Reading it with the voice in your head seems criminal by comparison.

BORN STANDING UP by Steve Martin (2007)

Steve Martin wrote it, and Steve Martin knows how to produce a flash bomb of comedy. Read it if you remember Martin's stand-up shtick in the '70s, but especially read it if you don't. Before he was a white-haired eminence who fathered brides and cheap dozens and novels about shopgirls, Martin was a hustler of the rarest qualitya showman who cut his teeth at Disneyland (!), who zagged in the face of every easier zig. Who struggled maniacally to perform with originality. That's always the best part of any movie, anyway, isn't it? The gritty hustle up the mountain. By the time sold-out arenas and Hollywood blockbusters roll around, Martin seems less to bask in his successes than be bored by them. It's a good lesson for a career and for a memoir: Get out while it's hot. Martin jams through his set and then drops the mike.

THEODORE REX by Edmund Morris (2001)

Teddy's life was so grandiose that this book, confined to merely his eight White House years, manages to amaze without even covering many of the hoary Roosevelt legends (cowboy days in the Dakotas, a heroic Rough Riders phase, that time he took a bullet to the chest but gave a speech anyway). America's youngest, most unusual president is 42 when he begins warring against Wall Street monopolies, creating national parks, and stretching a canal across Panama. "Don't fritter away your time" and "Get action," the president barks, heeding his own advice.

MALCOLM X: A LIFE OF REINVENTION by Manning Marable (2011)

America in 2015 looks a hell of a lot more like the dire 1964 that Malcolm described in his landmark "The Ballot or the Bullet" speech than the cuddly future Dr. King put forth in "I Have a Dream." Yet what's so striking about Marable's book is how the supposedly rigid beliefs of Dr. King's fiery militant foil were constantly evolving, and how he came to have no allies, just enemieswhich makes this book as suspenseful as a double-agent spy novel.

ANDREW CARNEGIE by David Nasaw (2006)

Of all the robber barons, Andrew Carnegie feels the most modern. The most likable, toothough that may sell him short (which, at five feet, he was as well). He was born a pauper and became, in the words of financier J. P. Morgan, "the richest man in the world." Sure, Carnegie was no saintin the laissez-faire Gilded Age, righteousness was rarely rewarded. He sold crap-ass securities and used an early railroad gig to ink insider deals that set him up in the steel business. He made his first million by 35 but vowed to die penniless and began funding libraries, museums, concert halls, and collegessetting an example that modern plutocrats like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett aspire to today.

A BEAUTIFUL MIND by Sylvia Nasar (1998)

It is terrifying to imagine the turns a life can take. One minute you're a rising stud of American mathematics, the brash young heir to Einstein, perhaps. The next, you're announcing that you've been appointed Emperor of Antarctica, that powers from outer space are speaking to you in coded messages. In the late 1950s, John Nash fell in a flash from genius to madness. Decades were lost. But the voices quieted; Nash re-emerged, began working again. Then they gave him the goddamn Nobel Prize. Sure, things can get pretty bleak. But they can turn around, too.

STEVE JOBS by Walter Isaacson (2011)

It's so very many things at oncea panoramic tribute to a singular American mind; the definitive portrait of the definitive American company; a playbook for engineers, designers, marketers, and managers in tech and in the wider world of anybody making products and selling them for money; an "Idiot's Guide to '70s Start-ups and '00s Revivals"; a manual for megalomania (and veganism); and a best-seller of such magnitude that it's dumb to opt out. We know it's the only book your less readerly bros have read since collegebut don't let that suggest anything other than the fact that Jobs offers up entry points for countless kinds of men.

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Blog – Posted on Monday, Jan 21

The 30 best biographies of all time.

Biographer Richard Holmes once wrote that his work was “a kind of pursuit… writing about the pursuit of that fleeting figure, in such a way as to bring them alive in the present.”

At the risk of sounding cliché, the best biographies do exactly this: bring their subjects to life. A great biography isn’t just a laundry list of events that happened to someone. Rather, it should weave a narrative and tell a story in almost the same way a novel does. In this way, biography differs from the rest of nonfiction .

All the biographies on this list are just as captivating as excellent novels , if not more so. With that, please enjoy the 30 best biographies of all time — some historical, some recent, but all remarkable, life-giving tributes to their subjects.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the number of great biographies out there, you can also take our 30-second quiz below to narrow it down quickly and get a personalized biography recommendation  😉

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1. A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar

This biography of esteemed mathematician John Nash was both a finalist for the 1998 Pulitzer Prize and the basis for the award-winning film of the same name. Nasar thoroughly explores Nash’s prestigious career, from his beginnings at MIT to his work at the RAND Corporation — as well the internal battle he waged against schizophrenia, a disorder that nearly derailed his life.

2. Alan Turing: The Enigma: The Book That Inspired the Film The Imitation Game - Updated Edition by Andrew Hodges

Hodges’ 1983 biography of Alan Turing sheds light on the inner workings of this brilliant mathematician, cryptologist, and computer pioneer. Indeed, despite the title ( a nod to his work during WWII ), a great deal of the “enigmatic” Turing is laid out in this book. It covers his heroic code-breaking efforts during the war, his computer designs and contributions to mathematical biology in the years following, and of course, the vicious persecution that befell him in the 1950s — when homosexual acts were still a crime punishable by English law.

3. Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

Ron Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton is not only the inspiration for a hit Broadway musical, but also a work of creative genius itself. This massive undertaking of over 800 pages details every knowable moment of the youngest Founding Father’s life: from his role in the Revolutionary War and early American government to his sordid (and ultimately career-destroying) affair with Maria Reynolds. He may never have been president, but he was a fascinating and unique figure in American history — plus it’s fun to get the truth behind the songs.

Prefer to read about fascinating First Ladies rather than almost-presidents? Check out this awesome list of books about First Ladies over on The Archive.

4. Barracoon: The Story of the Last "Black Cargo" by Zora Neale Hurston

A prolific essayist, short story writer, and novelist, Hurston turned her hand to biographical writing in 1927 with this incredible work, kept under lock and key until it was published 2018. It’s based on Hurston’s interviews with the last remaining survivor of the Middle Passage slave trade, a man named Cudjo Lewis. Rendered in searing detail and Lewis’ highly affecting African-American vernacular, this biography of the “last black cargo” will transport you back in time to an era that, chillingly, is not nearly as far away from us as it feels.

5. Churchill: A Life by Martin Gilbert

Though many a biography of him has been attempted, Gilbert’s is the final authority on Winston Churchill — considered by many to be Britain’s greatest prime minister ever. A dexterous balance of in-depth research and intimately drawn details makes this biography a perfect tribute to the mercurial man who led Britain through World War II.

Just what those circumstances are occupies much of Bodanis's book, which pays homage to Einstein and, just as important, to predecessors such as Maxwell, Faraday, and Lavoisier, who are not as well known as Einstein today. Balancing writerly energy and scholarly weight, Bodanis offers a primer in modern physics and cosmology, explaining that the universe today is an expression of mass that will, in some vastly distant future, one day slide back to the energy side of the equation, replacing the \'dominion of matter\' with \'a great stillness\'--a vision that is at once lovely and profoundly frightening.

Without sliding into easy psychobiography, Bodanis explores other circumstances as well; namely, Einstein's background and character, which combined with a sterling intelligence to afford him an idiosyncratic view of the way things work--a view that would change the world. --Gregory McNamee

6. E=mc²: A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation by David Bodanis

This “biography of the world’s most famous equation” is a one-of-a-kind take on the genre: rather than being the story of Einstein, it really does follow the history of the equation itself. From the origins and development of its individual elements (energy, mass, and light) to their ramifications in the twentieth century, Bodanis turns what could be an extremely dry subject into engaging fare for readers of all stripes.

7. Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario

When Enrique was only five years old, his mother left Honduras for the United States, promising a quick return. Eleven years later, Enrique finally decided to take matters into his own hands in order to see her again: he would traverse Central and South America via railway, risking his life atop the “train of death” and at the hands of the immigration authorities, to reunite with his mother. This tale of Enrique’s perilous journey is not for the faint of heart, but it is an account of incredible devotion and sharp commentary on the pain of separation among immigrant families.

8. Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera

Herrera’s 1983 biography of renowned painter Frida Kahlo, one of the most recognizable names in modern art, has since become the definitive account on her life. And while Kahlo no doubt endured a great deal of suffering (a horrific accident when she was eighteen, a husband who had constant affairs), the focal point of the book is not her pain. Instead, it’s her artistic brilliance and immense resolve to leave her mark on the world — a mark that will not soon be forgotten, in part thanks to Herrera’s dedicated work.

9. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Perhaps the most impressive biographical feat of the twenty-first century, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is about a woman whose cells completely changed the trajectory of modern medicine. Rebecca Skloot skillfully commemorates the previously unknown life of a poor black woman whose cancer cells were taken, without her knowledge, for medical testing — and without whom we wouldn’t have many of the critical cures we depend upon today.

10. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Christopher McCandless, aka Alexander Supertramp, hitchhiked to Alaska and disappeared into the Denali wilderness in April 1992. Five months later, McCandless was found emaciated and deceased in his shelter — but of what cause? Krakauer’s biography of McCandless retraces his steps back to the beginning of the trek, attempting to suss out what the young man was looking for on his journey, and whether he fully understood what dangers lay before him.

11. Let Us Now Praise Famous Men: Three Tenant Families by James Agee

"Let us now praise famous men, and our fathers that begat us.” From this line derives the central issue of Agee and Evans’ work: who truly deserves our praise and recognition? According to this 1941 biography, it’s the barely-surviving sharecropper families who were severely impacted by the American “Dust Bowl” — hundreds of people entrenched in poverty, whose humanity Evans and Agee desperately implore their audience to see in their book.

12. The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

Another mysterious explorer takes center stage in this gripping 2009 biography. Grann tells the story of Percy Fawcett, the archaeologist who vanished in the Amazon along with his son in 1925, supposedly in search of an ancient lost city. Parallel to this narrative, Grann describes his own travels in the Amazon 80 years later: discovering firsthand what threats Fawcett may have encountered, and coming to realize what the “Lost City of Z” really was.

13. Mao: The Unknown Story by Jung Chang

Though many of us will be familiar with the name Mao Zedong, this prodigious biography sheds unprecedented light upon the power-hungry “Red Emperor.” Chang and Halliday begin with the shocking statistic that Mao was responsible for 70 million deaths during peacetime — more than any other twentieth-century world leader. From there, they unravel Mao’s complex ideologies, motivations, and missions, breaking down his long-propagated “hero” persona and thrusting forth a new, grislier image of one of China’s biggest revolutionaries.

14. Mad Girl's Love Song: Sylvia Plath and Life Before Ted by Andrew Wilson by Andrew Wilson

Titled after one of her most evocative poems, this shimmering bio of Sylvia Plath takes an unusual approach. Instead of focusing on her years of depression and tempestuous marriage to poet Ted Hughes, it chronicles her life before she ever came to Cambridge. Wilson closely examines her early family and relationships, feelings and experiences, with information taken from her meticulous diaries — setting a strong precedent for other Plath biographers to follow.

15. The Minds of Billy Milligan by Daniel Keyes

What if you had twenty-four different people living inside you, and you never knew which one was going to come out? Such was the life of Billy Milligan, the subject of this haunting biography by the author of Flowers for Algernon . Keyes recounts, in a refreshingly straightforward style, the events of Billy’s life and how his psyche came to be “split”... as well as how, with Keyes’ help, he attempted to put the fragments of himself back together.

16. Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder

This gorgeously constructed biography follows Paul Farmer, a doctor who’s worked for decades to eradicate infectious diseases around the globe, particularly in underprivileged areas. Though Farmer’s humanitarian accomplishments are extraordinary in and of themselves, the true charm of this book comes from Kidder’s personal relationship with him — and the sense of fulfillment the reader sustains from reading about someone genuinely heroic, written by someone else who truly understands and admires what they do.

17. Napoleon: A Life by Andrew Roberts

Here’s another bio that will reshape your views of a famed historical tyrant, though this time in a surprisingly favorable light. Decorated scholar Andrew Roberts delves into the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, from his near-flawless military instincts to his complex and confusing relationship with his wife. But Roberts’ attitude toward his subject is what really makes this work shine: rather than ridiculing him ( as it would undoubtedly be easy to do ), he approaches the “petty tyrant” with a healthy amount of deference.

18. The Passage of Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson IV by Robert A. Caro

Lyndon Johnson might not seem as intriguing or scandalous as figures like Kennedy, Nixon, or W. Bush. But in this expertly woven biography, Robert Caro lays out the long, winding road of his political career, and it’s full of twists you wouldn’t expect. Johnson himself was a surprisingly cunning figure, gradually maneuvering his way closer and closer to power. Finally, in 1963, he got his greatest wish — but at what cost? Fans of Adam McKay’s Vice , this is the book for you.

19. Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser

Anyone who grew up reading Little House on the Prairie will surely be fascinated by this tell-all biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Caroline Fraser draws upon never-before-published historical resources to create a lush study of the author’s life — not in the gently narrated manner of the Little House series, but in raw and startling truths about her upbringing, marriage, and volatile relationship with her daughter (and alleged ghostwriter) Rose Wilder Lane.

20. Prince: A Private View by Afshin Shahidi

Compiled just after the superstar’s untimely death in 2016, this intimate snapshot of Prince’s life is actually a largely visual work — Shahidi served as his private photographer from the early 2000s until his passing. And whatever they say about pictures being worth a thousand words, Shahidi’s are worth more still: Prince’s incredible vibrance, contagious excitement, and altogether singular personality come through in every shot.

21. Radioactive: Marie & Pierre Curie: A Tale of Love and Fallout by Lauren Redniss

Could there be a more fitting title for a book about the husband-wife team who discovered radioactivity? What you may not know is that these nuclear pioneers also had a fascinating personal history. Marie Sklodowska met Pierre Curie when she came to work in his lab in 1891, and just a few years later they were married. Their passion for each other bled into their passion for their work, and vice-versa — and in almost no time at all, they were on their way to their first of their Nobel Prizes.

22. Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson

She may not have been assassinated or killed in a mysterious plane crash, but Rosemary Kennedy’s fate is in many ways the worst of “the Kennedy Curse.” As if a botched lobotomy that left her almost completely incapacitated weren’t enough, her parents then hid her away from society, almost never to be seen again. Yet in this new biography, penned by devoted Kennedy scholar Kate Larson, the full truth of Rosemary’s post-lobotomy life is at last revealed.

23. Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford

This appropriately lyrical biography of brilliant Jazz Age poet and renowned feminist, Edna St. Vincent Millay, is indeed a perfect balance of savage and beautiful. While Millay’s poetic work was delicate and subtle, the woman herself was feisty and unpredictable, harboring unusual and occasionally destructive habits that Milford fervently explores.

24. Shelley: The Pursuit by Richard Holmes

Holmes’ famous philosophy of “biography as pursuit” is thoroughly proven here in his first full-length biographical work. Shelley: The Pursuit details an almost feverish tracking of Percy Shelley as a dark and cutting figure in the Romantic period — reforming many previous historical conceptions about him through Holmes’ compelling and resolute writing.

25. Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life by Ruth Franklin

Another Gothic figure has been made newly known through this work, detailing the life of prolific horror and mystery writer Shirley Jackson. Author Ruth Franklin digs deep into the existence of the reclusive and mysterious Jackson, drawing penetrating comparisons between the true events of her life and the dark nature of her fiction.

26. The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit by Michael Finkel

Fans of Into the Wild and The Lost City of Z will find their next adventure fix in this 2017 book about Christopher Knight, a man who lived by himself in the Maine woods for almost thirty years. The tale of this so-called “last true hermit” will captivate readers who have always fantasized about escaping society, with vivid descriptions of Knight’s rural setup, his carefully calculated moves and how he managed to survive the deadly cold of the Maine winters.

27. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

The man, the myth, the legend: Steve Jobs, co-founder and CEO of Apple, is properly immortalized in Isaacson’s masterful biography. It divulges the details of Jobs’ little-known childhood and tracks his fateful path from garage engineer to leader of one of the largest tech companies in the world — not to mention his formative role in other legendary companies like Pixar, and indeed within the Silicon Valley ecosystem as a whole.

28. Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

Olympic runner Louis Zamperini was just twenty-six when his US Army bomber crashed and burned in the Pacific, leaving him and two other men afloat on a raft for forty-seven days — only to be captured by the Japanese Navy and tortured as a POW for the next two and a half years. In this gripping biography, Laura Hillenbrand tracks Zamperini’s story from beginning to end… including how he embraced Christian evangelism as a means of recovery, and even came to forgive his tormentors in his later years.

29. Vera (Mrs. Vladimir Nabokov) by Stacy Schiff

Everyone knows of Vladimir Nabokov — but what about his wife, Vera, whom he called “the best-humored woman I have ever known”? According to Schiff, she was a genius in her own right, supporting Vladimir not only as his partner, but also as his all-around editor and translator. And she kept up that trademark humor throughout it all, inspiring her husband’s work and injecting some of her own creative flair into it along the way.

30. Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare by Stephen Greenblatt

William Shakespeare is a notoriously slippery historical figure — no one really knows when he was born, what he looked like, or how many plays he wrote. But that didn’t stop Stephen Greenblatt, who in 2004 turned out this magnificently detailed biography of the Bard: a series of imaginative reenactments of his writing process, and insights on how the social and political ideals of the time would have influenced him. Indeed, no one exists in a vacuum, not even Shakespeare — hence the conscious depiction of him in this book as a “will in the world,” rather than an isolated writer shut up in his own musty study.

If you're looking for more inspiring nonfiction, check out this list of 30 engaging self-help books , or this list of the last century's best memoirs !

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• Relationships

By Paula Thompson

By Paula Thompson • March 13

7 Key Traits of a Good Man (And How to Cultivate Them)

• Integrity shapes character
• Compassion enhances connections
• Reliability builds trust
• Strength beyond the physical
• Growth mindset fosters evolution

Unpacking the Essence of a Good Man

The quest to understand what makes a good man has spanned centuries, touching the corners of philosophy, ethics, and modern social science. It's a question that reverberates through the hallways of personal development and relationship advice, inviting introspection and societal examination. The essence of a good man goes beyond superficial attributes, embedding itself in the core values and actions that define a person's character and impact on those around him.

In today's society, where examples of manhood can vary dramatically, it becomes crucial to distill the timeless traits that contribute to being a good man. This exploration is not just academic; it's deeply personal and practical, offering a roadmap for those seeking to enrich their lives and the lives of others.

At its heart, the concept of a good man intertwines with virtues that have been esteemed across cultures and epochs—integrity, compassion, reliability, strength, respect, self-awareness, and a growth mindset. These traits form the bedrock of character, influencing how a man navigates the complexities of life and relationships.

The journey towards embodying these qualities is continuous, fraught with challenges and opportunities for growth. It's about striving towards the best version of oneself, while also recognizing and embracing one's flaws and vulnerabilities.

This article delves into seven key traits that are quintessential to the making of a good man. By understanding and cultivating these characteristics, individuals can foster a life of deeper fulfillment, stronger relationships, and a lasting positive impact on the world.

Whether you're on a personal quest for improvement, a partner seeking to support your significant other, or simply curious about the qualities that contribute to a meaningful and ethical life, this guide offers insights and practical advice for walking the path of a good man.

Let's embark on this journey together, unpacking the essence of what makes a man truly good, not just in the eyes of others, but in the silent affirmations of his own heart.

1. Integrity: The Foundation of Character

Integrity, often hailed as the cornerstone of moral character, is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It's about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and holding oneself to a consistent set of ethics regardless of the situation.

This trait is fundamental in defining what makes a good man because it influences every action, decision, and interaction. A man with integrity navigates life's challenges with a moral compass that guides him toward fairness, honesty, and respect for others and himself.

The impact of integrity on a person's life and relationships cannot be overstated. It builds a foundation of trust that is essential for healthy, lasting relationships. Moreover, it garners respect from peers, creating a legacy of honor and dignity that transcends the individual.

Cultivating integrity involves self-reflection, a commitment to personal growth, and the courage to stand by one's values, even in the face of adversity. It's a dynamic process, requiring ongoing effort and adjustment as one's understanding of right and wrong evolves.

As we explore the depths of integrity, remember that it's not about perfection but progress. Embracing this foundational trait is a step towards not only being a good man but a profoundly human one, connected to the timeless quest for virtue and meaning.

2. Compassion: Understanding and Empathy

Compassion stands as a beacon of light in the darkness of someone's struggle, offering a hand of support and a heart full of understanding. This fundamental trait of a good man involves recognizing the suffering of others and taking action to help alleviate it. It bridges the gap between mere awareness of another's plight and actively seeking to improve their situation.

At its core, compassion is about empathy—putting oneself in another's shoes and feeling what they feel. It's this deep emotional connection that drives a compassionate person to act, making compassion not just an emotional response but a moral compass guiding actions and decisions.

In the context of relationships, compassion fosters a nurturing and supportive environment, encouraging open communication and mutual respect. It's the glue that binds people together during tough times, offering a reminder that no one has to face their battles alone.

Developing compassion involves active listening, genuine curiosity about others' experiences, and the practice of kindness, even in small gestures. By cultivating compassion, a man not only enriches his own life but also contributes to a kinder, more empathetic world.

3. Reliability: Being Someone You Can Count On

Reliability is the quiet strength of character that assures others of our dependability. A reliable man is consistent in his actions, words, and commitments, making him a pillar of strength and stability in the lives of those he cares about. This trait is crucial in building trust and security in any relationship, be it personal, professional, or social.

Being reliable involves more than just being on time or fulfilling obligations; it's about creating a sense of assurance in others that they can depend on you, no matter the circumstances. It means your word is your bond, and your actions back up that promise.

The importance of reliability extends beyond individual relationships. It plays a significant role in shaping a man's reputation, influencing how he is perceived by others. A reputation for reliability can open doors and build bridges, while its absence can erode trust and undermine relationships.

To become more reliable, it's essential to prioritize commitments, communicate openly about capabilities and limitations, and follow through on promises. It's about making conscious choices to be present and accountable, even when it's challenging.

However, reliability isn't just about others' expectations. It's also about setting and maintaining personal standards. A reliable man knows his limits and sets realistic goals, ensuring that he can meet the commitments he makes to himself and others.

In times of uncertainty, the reliable man is a beacon of trustworthiness, providing stability and support to those around him. Cultivating this trait not only enhances one's character but also deepens the connections with those we value most.

Ultimately, reliability is an ongoing commitment to oneself and others. It's a testament to the strength of one's character and the depth of one's relationships. In the journey of life, being someone others can count on is a powerful way to leave a lasting, positive impact.

4. Strength: Not Just Physical, but Emotional and Mental

The narrative of strength has long been dominated by physical prowess, but the essence of true strength extends far beyond the mere physical. It encompasses emotional and mental resilience—the capacity to withstand life's adversities while maintaining one's core integrity and purpose. This multifaceted nature of strength is what truly defines a good man.

Emotional strength is characterized by the ability to navigate feelings and hardships with grace and wisdom, allowing oneself to feel deeply yet not be overwhelmed. It involves the courage to face one's vulnerabilities and transform them into pillars of resilience. Mental strength, on the other hand, is the tenacity to persevere through challenges, armed with determination and a positive mindset.

This comprehensive view of strength is not innate but cultivated through life's trials and tribulations. It's about learning from setbacks, staying committed to personal growth, and finding strength in the support of loved ones and the community. A man who embodies this holistic strength inspires not just by what he can lift but by what he can overcome.

The journey to build emotional and mental strength is both challenging and rewarding. It requires self-reflection, continuous learning, and the humility to seek help when needed. By embracing this broader definition of strength, one can lead a life of balance, depth, and true fulfillment.

5. Respect: Giving and Earning It

Respect is a two-way street, integral to healthy and meaningful relationships. It's not just about being courteous; it's about recognizing and valuing the worth of every individual, including oneself. A good man understands the importance of giving respect to others as well as earning it through his actions and character.

Giving respect involves listening actively, acknowledging others' feelings and opinions, and treating people with kindness and fairness, regardless of their status or relationship with you. It's about understanding that everyone has their own struggles and stories, and these deserve recognition and consideration.

Earning respect, meanwhile, is rooted in how you conduct yourself—your integrity, reliability, and the consistency of your actions with your values. It's built over time, through the trust you foster and the reliability you demonstrate in all aspects of life.

Respect also extends to boundaries—both setting your own and honoring those of others. A respectful man knows where to draw the line and how to communicate his limits in a clear and respectful manner, fostering mutual understanding and trust.

In the realm of self-respect, it's about holding oneself in high regard, not out of arrogance, but from a place of self-awareness and self-compassion. This involves making choices that reflect one's values, pursuing personal growth, and treating oneself with the same kindness one would offer others.

The dynamic of respect is crucial in navigating the complexities of human relationships. It's the glue that holds communities together, the foundation for empathy and compassion, and a key element in the pursuit of a fulfilling life.

Ultimately, respect is both given and received, a testament to one's character and the relationships one cultivates. By prioritizing respect in all interactions, a man not only enriches his own life but also contributes to a more understanding and cohesive society.

6. Self-Awareness: Knowing Oneself

Self-awareness is the compass that guides a good man through the ever-changing landscapes of life. It's the profound understanding of one's emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and values. This introspective journey is not about achieving a state of perfection but embracing the entirety of one's being with honesty and kindness.

Knowing oneself deeply allows for a life lived with intention. It empowers a man to make choices that align with his true self, rather than being swayed by external pressures or fleeting desires. This clarity of purpose and self-identity fosters a sense of inner peace and satisfaction.

Moreover, self-awareness enhances relationships. It enables a man to communicate more effectively, understand his needs and boundaries, and interact with others in a more meaningful and respectful way. Recognizing one's impact on others and taking responsibility for one's actions are hallmarks of emotional intelligence and maturity.

The path to self-awareness is ongoing and often challenging. It requires courage to confront uncomfortable truths, the humility to accept feedback, and the willingness to engage in continuous self-reflection. Yet, the rewards of this journey are immeasurable, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Practices such as mindfulness, journaling, and therapy can be invaluable tools in cultivating self-awareness. They provide spaces for introspection, helping individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment and gain insights into their behaviors and patterns.

A man who invests in understanding himself is better equipped to face life's challenges with resilience and grace. He knows his limitations and leverages his strengths, navigating his journey with confidence and humility.

Ultimately, self-awareness is about building a relationship with oneself that is rooted in compassion and understanding. It is the foundation upon which personal growth and meaningful relationships are built, a cornerstone of what makes a good man.

7. Growth Mindset: Embracing Change and Challenges

The concept of a growth mindset, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, posits that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. For a good man, embracing a growth mindset means viewing challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for personal development and learning.

This perspective encourages resilience in the face of adversity. Instead of avoiding difficulties or fearing failure, a man with a growth mindset perseveres, knowing that each setback is a chance to grow and improve. This proactive approach to life's hurdles fosters adaptability and innovation.

Furthermore, a growth mindset cultivates a love of learning. It inspires a man to pursue new skills, knowledge, and experiences, continually expanding his horizons and enriching his life. This relentless pursuit of growth contributes to a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Encouraging a growth mindset also enhances relationships. By valuing effort and progress over perfection, a man can support and inspire those around him to embrace their own journeys of growth and self-discovery. This creates a positive, empowering environment for everyone involved.

Adopting a growth mindset requires mindfulness and self-reflection. It involves recognizing fixed mindset patterns, challenging limiting beliefs, and celebrating small victories along the path of personal development. Through perseverance and a positive outlook, a good man demonstrates that with a growth mindset, the potential for transformation is limitless.

Conclusion: The Continuous Journey of Being a Good Man

The journey of embodying the qualities that constitute a good man is both noble and challenging. It demands constant self-evaluation, commitment to growth, and the courage to face one's shortcomings. This path is not defined by a final destination but by the ongoing process of becoming better, both for oneself and for those around us.

Integrity, compassion, reliability, strength, respect, self-awareness, and a growth mindset are not mere traits but guiding lights on the path to personal excellence and meaningful interactions. They weave together to form the fabric of a man's character, influencing how he moves through the world and the legacy he leaves behind.

The pursuit of these qualities is a testament to a man's dedication to living a life of purpose and impact. It is a journey that is as individual as it is universal, reflecting the shared human endeavor to lead lives of value and virtue.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that being a good man is a choice and a responsibility. It is about making a conscious decision every day to live by principles that uplift not only ourselves but also those we encounter.

Let this article serve as a starting point, a beacon to guide you through the darkness and a reminder of the light within each of us. The journey of being a good man is one of endless learning, loving, and giving—a journey well worth undertaking.

So, as we move forward, let us do so with open hearts and minds, ready to embrace the challenges and joys that lie ahead. For It is our actions and choices that define us, sculpting the legacy of what it truly means to be a good man.

FAQ: Common Questions About Cultivating Good Traits

1. How can I start cultivating these traits? Begin with self-reflection. Identify areas for growth and set small, achievable goals for yourself. Practice mindfulness, seek feedback from trusted individuals, and be open to learning and adapting.

2. Is it ever too late to start this journey? It's never too late. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and every step towards self-improvement is valuable, regardless of when you begin.

3. How do I maintain motivation on this path? Set clear intentions, celebrate your progress, and surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage your growth. Remember, the journey itself is as important as the destination.

4. Can these traits be developed in professional settings? Absolutely. These traits are universally applicable and can significantly enhance your professional life by improving leadership skills, teamwork, and interpersonal relationships.

5. How do I deal with setbacks? View setbacks as learning opportunities. Reflect on what they teach you about yourself and your approach to challenges. Stay resilient and maintain a growth mindset.

6. How can I support others in their journey? Be a role model of the traits you value, offer encouragement, share your experiences, and provide constructive feedback. Creating a supportive environment benefits everyone involved.

Recommended Resources

• The Way of the Superior Man by David Deida, Sounds True, 2004
• No More Mr. Nice Guy by Robert A. Glover, Running Press, 2003
• The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate by Gary Chapman, Northfield Publishing, 1992
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• Notice: Some articles on enotalone.com are a collaboration between our human editors and generative AI. We prioritize accuracy and authenticity in our content.

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Biography Online

Great Men Who Changed the World

Important and influential men who changed the world. These powerful men had a major influence on the world, not necessarily in a good way. Including great men from the fields of politics, military, art, music, religion, science and sport.

Political leaders

Writers/Philosophers

Spiritual figures

Other men who changed the world

• Ts’ai Lun (AD 50 – 121) Inventor of paper.
• Johann Gutenberg (1395 – 1468) – Inventor of the printing press.
• Euclid (c. 325 – 265 BC) – Greek mathematician
• Antoine Laurent Lavoisier (1743 – 1794) French chemist and biologist who had leading impact on the chemical revolution.
• Malcolm X (1925 – 1965) Black civil rights activist and leader of the Nation of Islam.
• James Watt (1736 – 1819) Scottish engineer. Watt improved the Newcome steam engine creating an efficient steam engine.
• Orville and Wilbur Wright Orville (1871 – 1948) – Wilbur (1867 – 1912) – Created and flew the first aeroplane.
• Adam Smith (1723-1790) Scottish social philosopher and pioneer of classical economics.
• Thomas Edison (1847 – 1931) – Inventor and businessman helped introduce electricity and electric light bulbs.
• Alexander Graham Bell (1847 – 1922) – Scottish inventor of the telephone.
• Simon Bolivar (1783 – 1830) – Liberator of Latin American countries
• Rene Descartes (1596 – 1650) French philosopher and mathematician. “I think, therefore I am”
• Mark Twain ( 1835 – 1910 ) author
• Oscar Wilde (1854 – 1900) author
• J.R.R. Tolkien (1892 – 1973) author
• John Steinbeck (1902 – 1968) author
• Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 – 1882) poet, philosopher, author
• John Stuart Mill (1806 – 1873) liberal philosopher
• Charles Dickens (1812 – 1870) author, social activist
• Richard Branson – businessman
• Isambard Kingdom Brunel – engineer

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan “Men who changed the World”, Oxford, UK. www.biographyonline.net – 10th March 2015. Last updated 5 March 2018.

People who changed the World at Amazon

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The 30 best biographies to add to your reading list

Some stories involve incredible, larger-than-life characters. these are the best biographies ever written..

Writing a great biography is no easy task. The author is charged with capturing some of the most iconic and influential people on the planet, folks that often have larger than life personas. To capture that in words is a genuine challenge that the best biographers relish.

The very best biographies don't just hold a mirror up to these remarkable characters. Instead, they show us a different side of them, or just how a certain approach of philosophy fueled their game-changing ways. Biographies inform, for certain, but they entertain and inspire to no end as well.

Below, we gathered a comprehensive list of the best biographies ever written. Some of these biographies were selected because of the subject matter and others were chosen because of the biographer. It’s often said that reading biographies is the best way to gain new knowledge, so we suggest you start with these great selections. If you love history, you’ll certainly want to include these best history books to your home library.

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York by Robert Caro

The former parks commissioner of New York, Robert Moses was a man who got power, loved power, and was transformed by power. This 1,000-plus page biography could be the definitive study of power and legacy. It’s a great learning tool of mostly what not to be and who not to become.

Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window by Tetsuko Kuroyanagi

Totto-Chan is a special figure in modern Japanese culture and is on the same celebrity status level as Oprah is to us here in the United States. The book describes the childhood in pre-World War II Japan of a misunderstood girl who suffered from attention disorders and excessive energy and who later was mentored by a very special school principal who truly understood her. The book has sold more than 5 million copies in Japan.

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Eisenhower in War and Peace by Jean Edward Smith

The man who was responsible for winning World War II, twice prevented the use of nuclear weapons, and attempted to keep our soldiers out of Vietnam, all while making it look easy, is none other than Dwight D. Eisenhower. This biography is a history lesson as well as an opportunity to get inside the mind of a brilliant man.

Edison: A Biography by Matthew Josephson

This particular biography dates back more than 50 years, which means it was written without the worry of being politically correct or controversial, but instead focused on providing a conclusive picture of the man. Modern enough to be historically accurate, this biography details a lot of the little-known facts about Mr. Edison in addition to his accomplishments, as well as his failures.

Empire State of Mind: How Jay-Z Went from Street Corner to Corner Office by Zach O’Malley Greenburg

Empire State of Mind is both an unofficial biography of the rap mogul Jay-Z as well as a business book. It shows how the rapper hustled his way to the top of the music industry to become one of the most powerful and influential people in music.

Where Men Win Glory: The Odyssey of Pat Tillman by Jon Krakauer

The story of the professional football player who gave up a $3 million NFL contract to join the Army Rangers after 9/11, only to die under suspicious circumstances in the hills of Afghanistan, is a book about everything that is right and wrong with the U.S. military. Pat Tillman wasn’t perfect, but he was a man we could all learn something from. His incredible story is one of bravery and selflessness -- and will forever be tied to the aftermath of the 2001 terrorist attacks.

Titan: The Life of John. D. Rockefeller Sr. by Ron Chernow

Ron Chernow has written some of the best biographies of our time. In this 832-page biography of John. D. Rockefeller, he shares the main lessons you would take away from someone like Rockefeller, a strangely stoic, incredibly resilient, and -- despite his reputation as a robber baron -- humble and compassionate man. Most successful people get worse as they age, but Rockefeller instead became more open-minded and more generous. The biography also details his wrongdoings and permits you the opportunity to make your own judgment on Rockefeller’s character.

Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow

Another example of Chernow’s brilliance in biographical writing is given in his biography of George Washington. Today, we study Washington not only for his against-the-odds military victory over a superior British Army but also for his strategic vision, which is partially responsible for many of the most enduring American institutions and practices. It’s another long read of the type Chernow is famous for, but it's also a page-turner. Although it’s intimidating to look at, the reading time goes by quickly.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Walter Isaacson has written some of the greatest biographies in contemporary literature. Our modern-day genius, Steve Jobs, will forever be remembered as the mastermind who brought us Apple. This biography shows Jobs at his best, which includes illustrations of his determination and creativity but also details the worst of him, including his tyrannical and vicious ways of running a business (and his family). From this book, you will learn to appreciate the man for the genius that he was, but it will most likely not inspire you to follow in his path.

Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford

Most depictions show the Mongols as bloodthirsty pillagers, but in this biography, we are also shown how they introduced many progressive advances to their conquered nations. You will learn how Genghis Khan abolished torture, permitted universal religious freedom, and destroyed existing feudal systems.

Dostoevsky: A Writer in His Time by Joseph Frank

his five-volume retelling of the life and times of Russian literary giant Fyodor Dostoevsky is considered the best biography available on the subject. The mammoth exploration sheds light on Dostoevsky's works, ideology, and historical context. For those who are not specifically interested in the famous author, the also book paints a picture of 19th-century Russia.

Leonardo da Vinci: The Marvelous Works of Nature and Man by Martin Kemp

Kemp’s account of da Vinci’s life and work is considered the go-to biography of the famous Renaissance figure. This incredible book sheds light on one of the most creative figures who ever lived, guiding readers through a fully integrated account of his scientific, artistic, and technological works, as well as the life events that helped form the man that made them.

Mercury: An Intimate Biography of Freddie Mercury by Leslie-Ann Jones

After the massive success of the movie recently released about rock legend Freddie Mercury and his band, Queen, you might be interested in learning more about the frontman. This biography draws from hundreds of interviews with key figures in his life to create a revealing glimpse into Mercury’s life.

Empire: The Life, Legend, and Madness of Howard Hughes by Donald Barlett

This is an epic biography of an epic man. It shows the heights of his incredible success as well as the depths of his inner struggles. Readers learn about the tough but eccentric figure in a story that details his incredible success as an aviator, film producer, and more.

Alan Turing: The Enigma by Andrew Hodges

The brilliant mathematician, cytologist, and computer pioneer Alan Turing is beautifully depicted in this biography. It covers his heroic code-breaking efforts during World War II , his computer designs and contributions to mathematical biology in the years following, and the vicious persecution that befell him in the 1950s when homosexual acts were still a crime and punishable by law.

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

Of course, we couldn’t highlight Ron Chernow’s best works without including his biography on Alexander Hamilton , which is not only the inspiration for a hit Broadway musical but also a work of creative genius itself. Another more than 800-page book (an ongoing theme for Chernow biographies), this book details every knowable moment of the youngest Founding Father’s life, from his role in the Revolutionary War and early American government to his sordid affair with Maria Reynolds. If you’ve seen the musical, this book will help answer a lot of those burning questions that you may have.

Frida: The Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera

The focal point of this biography is not the suffering that was endured by Frida Kahlo, but instead, her artistic brilliance and her immense resolve to leave her mark on the world. Herrera’s 1983 biography of one of the most recognizable names in modern art has since become the definitive account of her life.

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Recommended reading for any adventurer or explorer -- the story of Christopher McCandless, aka Alexander Supertramp, who hitchhiked to Alaska and disappeared into the Denali wilderness in April 1992 only to have his remains discovered in his shelter five months later -- Into the Wild retraces his steps along the trek, attempting to discover what the young man was looking for on his journey. Krakauer delivers one of the best biography books in recent memory.

Prince: A Private View by Afshin Shahidi

Compiled after the superstar’s untimely death in 2016, this intimate snapshot into the life of Prince is largely visual. The author served as the musician’s private photographer from the early 2000s until his passing. You already know the expression, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” and in this case, they are worth a lot more.

Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson

The “Kennedy Curse” didn’t bring forth an assassination or a mysterious plane crash for Rosemary Kennedy, although her fate might have been the worst of them all. As if her botched lobotomy that left her almost completely incapacitated weren’t enough, her parents then hid her away from society, almost never to be seen again. Penned by Kennedy scholar Kate Larson, the full truth of her post-lobotomy life is finally revealed.

Trump Revealed: The Definitive Biography of the 45th President by Michael Kranish and Marc Fisher

Love him or hate him, Donald Trump is likely the most divisive U.S. president of modern times. The comprehensive biography of Trump is reported by a team of award-winning Washington Post journalists and co-authored by investigative political reporter Michael Kranish and senior editor Marc Fisher. The book gives the reader an insight into Trump, from his upbringing in Queens to his turbulent careers in real estate and entertainment to his astonishing rise as the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination.

Mao: The Unknown Story by Jung Chang

Most are familiar with the revolutionary Mao Zedong. This carefully curated biography by Jung Chang digs deeper into the life of the "Red Emperor." You won't find these interviews and stories about the world leader in history books alone. This extensive account of the man known simply as Mao begins with a horrific statistic: He was responsible for the deaths of more than 70 million people during his regime.

A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II by Sonia Purnell 

Biographies often give us the stories of people we know and love, but they can also reveal new stories about people that may have been lost to history. In her bestseller, Sonia Purnell tells the story of Virginia Hall, a prolific and heroic spy from World War II who took down the Axis Powers on one leg. 

Black Boy by Richard Wright

A standard biography is usually given by a historian after years and years of research and writing, but sometimes it’s better to go straight to the source. In his memoir, Richard Wright details his life as he recalls it as a black American in the 20th century. Black Boy is a harsh, painful, beautiful, and revealing read about race in the United States -- and about a towering figure of literature. 

Leonardo Da Vinci by Walter Isaacson

Isaacson represents the gold standard for contemporary biographers, and his tome on Leonardo da Vinci was a bestseller for a reason. Isaacson is able to show a detailed, intimate portrait of the most famous painter of all time from centuries away.

Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

Want to know how the biggest sports company of all time came to be? Hear it from the man himself. Phil Knight’s book takes you through how his little sneaker company in Oregon became the worldwide leader in sportswear. 

The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley

One of the most famous biographies ever, The Autobiography of Malcolm X remains a classic and an important read. Malcolm X’s politics, though controversial at the time and today, is a valuable and provocative perspective that will make you reconsider how you think about America and the American Dream. 

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Long before becoming Jon Stewart’s successor on The Daily Show, Trevor Noah lived many, many lifetimes. Born to apartheid South Africa, Noah’s story is one of perseverance and triumph, and one that he manages to make funny by some sort of magic trick. 

The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae

Of course, today, you know Issa Rae as the writer, actor, and star of HBO’s Insecure, but before her hit show came her webseries and book of the same name, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl. Rae’s memoir wrestles with the idea of being an introvert in a world that considers Black people inherently cool.

Robin by Davie Itzkoff

One of the most beloved comedians and actors of all time, Robin Williams' passing in 2014 shook fans across generations. In his book, New York Times culture reporter Dave Itzkoff covers the life, work, and emotions of one of the most complicated and misunderstood comedians ever. Oh captain, my captain...

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Mark Stock is a writer from Portland, Oregon. He fell into wine during the Recession and has been fixated on the stuff since. He spent years making, selling, and sipping Pinot Noir in the Dundee Hills before a full return to his journalistic roots in 2016. He's helplessly tied to European soccer, casting for trout, and grunge rock. In addition to The Manual, he writes for SevenFifty Daily , Sip Northwest , The Somm Journal , The Drake , Willamette Week , Travel Oregon , and more. He has a website and occasionally even updates it: markastock.com .

Send all editorial inquiries  HERE .

We're living in crazy times, especially since this whole pandemic mess started a few long years ago. With so much instability out there, it's easy to feel, well, a little uneasy. That's why it's not a bad idea to consider a few self-defense weapons to have at your disposal, just in case. You never know really know what lies ahead but you can be prepared if things do go very, very wrong.

There are many options out there, but the best of the bunch are packable, discreet, effective, and non-lethal (because you don't necessarily have to put somebody six feet under to "take them out"). Now, it's one thing to have one of these on your person and quite another to use it safely and properly. So make sure you know what you're dealing with beforehand and maybe even set up some training time with your new tool. Whether you're planing to get (intentionally) lost in the backcountry or just milling about in the city, it's not a bad idea to consider getting one of these. Here are the best self-defense weapons for protecting yourself in 2023.

We live among walking legends, from LeBron James and Steven Spielberg to Paul McCartney and Meryl Streep. In the category of writing, Stephen King is among the very best. The 76-year-old from Maine has written countless classics, with a signature ability to both instill fear and keep readers helplessly attached to the plot.

Dubbed the "king of horror," King is a living icon, still turning out quality material. Some of the scariest concepts that continue to creep you out — the clowns, the twins in the hallway, the buried pets — are the handy work of King. It's no wonder many consider him to be one of the greatest writers of all time.

Anytime you're wondering what's on TV, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new shows and movies at your disposal. Every weekend brings new debuts across a wide array of streaming services, and it can be hard to keep track of what's worth checking out and what you can skip. Thankfully, we've got you covered with recommendations for movies and TV shows across a wide array of different streaming services. This is what to watch this weekend.

Best new shows to watch What to watch on Netflix

50 Must-Read Biographies

Rebecca Hussey

Rebecca holds a PhD in English and is a professor at Norwalk Community College in Connecticut. She teaches courses in composition, literature, and the arts. When she’s not reading or grading papers, she’s hanging out with her husband and son and/or riding her bike and/or buying books. She can't get enough of reading and writing about books, so she writes the bookish newsletter "Reading Indie," focusing on small press books and translations. Newsletter: Reading Indie Twitter: @ofbooksandbikes

View All posts by Rebecca Hussey

The best biographies give us a satisfying glimpse into a great person’s life, while also teaching us about the context in which that person lived. Through biography, we can also learn history, psychology, sociology, politics, philosophy, and more. Reading a great biography is both fun and educational. What’s not to love?

Below I’ve listed 50 of the best biographies out there. You will find a mix of subjects, including important figures in literature, science, politics, history, art, and more. I’ve tried to keep this list focused on biography only, so there is little in the way of memoir or autobiography. In a couple cases, authors have written about their family members, but for the most part, these are books where the focus is on the biographical subject, not the author.

The first handful are group biographies, and after that, I’ve arranged them alphabetically by subject. Book descriptions come from Goodreads.

Take a look and let me know about your favorite biography in the comments!

All We Know: Three Lives by Lisa Cohen

“In  All We Know , Lisa Cohen describes their [Esther Murphy, Mercedes de Acosta, and Madge Garland’s] glamorous choices, complicated failures, and controversial personal lives with lyricism and empathy. At once a series of intimate portraits and a startling investigation into style, celebrity, sexuality, and the genre of biography itself,  All We Know  explores a hidden history of modernism and pays tribute to three compelling lives.”

Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

“Set amid the civil rights movement, the never-before-told true story of NASA’s African-American female mathematicians who played a crucial role in America’s space program. Before Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, a group of professionals worked as ‘Human Computers,’ calculating the flight paths that would enable these historic achievements. Among these were a coterie of bright, talented African-American women.”

The Life You Save May Be Your Own: An American Pilgrimage by Paul Elie

“In the mid-twentieth century four American Catholics came to believe that the best way to explore the questions of religious faith was to write about them – in works that readers of all kinds could admire.  The Life You Save May Be Your Own  is their story – a vivid and enthralling account of great writers and their power over us.”

The Professor and the Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester

“As definitions were collected, the overseeing committee, led by Professor James Murray, discovered that one man, Dr. W. C. Minor, had submitted more than ten thousand. When the committee insisted on honoring him, a shocking truth came to light: Dr. Minor, an American Civil War veteran, was also an inmate at an asylum for the criminally insane.”

The Wives of Henry VIII by Antonia Fraser

“In a sweeping narrative, Fraser traces the cultural, familial and political roots of each of Henry’s queens, pushes aside the stereotypes that have long defined them, and illuminates the complex character of each.”

John Adams by David McCullough

“In this powerful, epic biography, David McCullough unfolds the adventurous life-journey of John Adams, the brilliant, fiercely independent, often irascible, always honest Yankee patriot — ‘the colossus of independence,’ as Thomas Jefferson called him.”

A Hope More Powerful Than the Sea: One Refugee’s Incredible Story of Love, Loss, and Survival by Melissa Fleming

“Emotionally riveting and eye-opening,  A Hope More Powerful Than the Sea  is the incredible story of a young woman, an international crisis, and the triumph of the human spirit. Melissa Fleming shares the harrowing journey of Doaa Al Zamel, a young Syrian refugee in search of a better life.”

At Her Majesty’s Request: An African Princess in Victorian England by Walter Dean Myers

“One terrifying night in 1848, a young African princess’s village is raided by warriors. The invaders kill her mother and father, the King and Queen, and take her captive. Two years later, a British naval captain rescues her and takes her to England where she is presented to Queen Victoria, and becomes a loved and respected member of the royal court.”

John Brown by W.E.B. Du Bois

“ John Brown is W. E. B. Du Bois’s groundbreaking political biography that paved the way for his transition from academia to a lifelong career in social activism. This biography is unlike Du Bois’s earlier work; it is intended as a work of consciousness-raising on the politics of race.”

Invisible: The Forgotten Story of the Black Woman Lawyer Who Took Down America’s Most Powerful Mobster by Stephen L. Carter

“[Eunice Hunton Carter] was black and a woman and a prosecutor, a graduate of Smith College and the granddaughter of slaves, as dazzlingly unlikely a combination as one could imagine in New York of the 1930s ― and without the strategy she devised, Lucky Luciano, the most powerful Mafia boss in history, would never have been convicted.”

Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang

“An engrossing record of Mao’s impact on China, an unusual window on the female experience in the modern world, and an inspiring tale of courage and love, Jung Chang describes the extraordinary lives and experiences of her family members.”

Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff

“Her palace shimmered with onyx, garnet, and gold, but was richer still in political and sexual intrigue. Above all else, Cleopatra was a shrewd strategist and an ingenious negotiator. Though her life spanned fewer than forty years, it reshaped the contours of the ancient world.”

Einstein: His Life and Universe by Walter Isaacson

“Einstein was a rebel and nonconformist from boyhood days, and these character traits drove both his life and his science. In this narrative, Walter Isaacson explains how his mind worked and the mysteries of the universe that he discovered.”

Enrique’s Journey: The Story of a Boy’s Dangerous Odyssey to Reunite with His Mother by Sonia Nazario

“In this astonishing true story, award-winning journalist Sonia Nazario recounts the unforgettable odyssey of a Honduran boy who braves unimaginable hardship and peril to reach his mother in the United States.”

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann

“After stumbling upon a hidden trove of diaries, New Yorker writer David Grann set out to solve ‘the greatest exploration mystery of the 20th century’: What happened to the British explorer Percy Fawcett & his quest for the Lost City of Z?”

Georgiana: Duchess of Devonshire by Amanda Foreman

“Amanda Foreman draws on a wealth of fresh research and writes colorfully and penetratingly about the fascinating Georgiana, whose struggle against her own weaknesses, whose great beauty and flamboyance, and whose determination to play a part in the affairs of the world make her a vibrant, astonishingly contemporary figure.”

Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik Ping Zhu

“Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg never asked for fame she was just trying to make the world a little better and a little freer. But along the way, the feminist pioneer’s searing dissents and steely strength have inspired millions. [This book], created by the young lawyer who began the Internet sensation and an award-winning journalist, takes you behind the myth for an intimate, irreverent look at the justice’s life and work.”

Wrapped in Rainbows: The Life of Zora Neale Hurston by Valerie Boyd

“A woman of enormous talent and remarkable drive, Zora Neale Hurston published seven books, many short stories, and several articles and plays over a career that spanned more than thirty years. Today, nearly every black woman writer of significance—including Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, and Alice Walker—acknowledges Hurston as a literary foremother.”

Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life by Ruth Franklin

“ Shirley Jackson  reveals the tumultuous life and inner darkness of the literary genius behind such classics as ‘The Lottery’ and  The Haunting of Hill House .”

The Path to Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert A. Caro

“This is the story of the rise to national power of a desperately poor young man from the Texas Hill Country. The Path to Power reveals in extraordinary detail the genesis of the almost superhuman drive, energy, and ambition that set LBJ apart.”

The Life of Samuel Johnson   by James Boswell

“Poet, lexicographer, critic, moralist and Great Cham, Dr. Johnson had in his friend Boswell the ideal biographer. Notoriously and self-confessedly intemperate, Boswell shared with Johnson a huge appetite for life and threw equal energy into recording its every aspect in minute but telling detail.”

Barbara Jordan: American Hero by Mary Beth Rogers

“Barbara Jordan was the first African American to serve in the Texas Senate since Reconstruction, the first black woman elected to Congress from the South, and the first to deliver the keynote address at a national party convention. Yet Jordan herself remained a mystery.”

Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo by Hayden Herrera

“This engrossing biography of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo reveals a woman of extreme magnetism and originality, an artist whose sensual vibrancy came straight from her own experiences: her childhood near Mexico City during the Mexican Revolution; a devastating accident at age eighteen that left her crippled and unable to bear children.”

Florynce “Flo” Kennedy: The Life of a Black Feminist Radical by Sherie M. Randolph

“Often photographed in a cowboy hat with her middle finger held defiantly in the air, Florynce ‘Flo’ Kennedy (1916–2000) left a vibrant legacy as a leader of the Black Power and feminist movements. In the first biography of Kennedy, Sherie M. Randolph traces the life and political influence of this strikingly bold and controversial radical activist.”

The Stranger in the Woods: The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit by Michael Finkel

“In 1986, a shy and intelligent twenty-year-old named Christopher Knight left his home in Massachusetts, drove to Maine, and disappeared into the forest. He would not have a conversation with another human being until nearly three decades later, when he was arrested for stealing food.”

The Lady and the Peacock: The Life of Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma by Peter Popham

“Peter Popham … draws upon previously untapped testimony and fresh revelations to tell the story of a woman whose bravery and determination have captivated people around the globe. Celebrated today as one of the world’s greatest exponents of non-violent political defiance since Mahatma Gandhi, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize only four years after her first experience of politics.”

Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo”   by Zora Neale Hurston

“In 1927, Zora Neale Hurston went to Plateau, Alabama, just outside Mobile, to interview eighty-six-year-old Cudjo Lewis. Of the millions of men, women, and children transported from Africa to America as slaves, Cudjo was then the only person alive to tell the story of this integral part of the nation’s history.”

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

“Her name was Henrietta Lacks, but scientists know her as HeLa. She was a poor Southern tobacco farmer who worked the same land as her slave ancestors, yet her cells—taken without her knowledge—became one of the most important tools in medicine.”

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin

“Acclaimed historian Doris Kearns Goodwin illuminates Lincoln’s political genius in this highly original work, as the one-term congressman and prairie lawyer rises from obscurity to prevail over three gifted rivals of national reputation to become president.”

The New Negro: The Life of Alain Locke by Jeffrey C. Stewart

“A tiny, fastidiously dressed man emerged from Black Philadelphia around the turn of the century to mentor a generation of young artists including Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Jacob Lawrence and call them the New Negro — the creative African Americans whose art, literature, music, and drama would inspire Black people to greatness.”

Warrior Poet: A Biography of Audre Lorde by Alexis De Veaux

“Drawing from the private archives of the poet’s estate and numerous interviews, Alexis De Veaux demystifies Lorde’s iconic status, charting her conservative childhood in Harlem; her early marriage to a white, gay man with whom she had two children; her emergence as an outspoken black feminist lesbian; and her canonization as a seminal poet of American literature.”

Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary by Juan Williams

“Thurgood Marshall stands today as the great architect of American race relations, having expanded the foundation of individual rights for all Americans. His victory in the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954, the landmark Supreme Court case outlawing school segregation, would have him a historic figure even if he had not gone on to become the first African-American appointed to the Supreme Court.”

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

“In April 1992 a young man from a well-to-do family hitchhiked to Alaska and walked alone into the wilderness north of Mt. McKinley. His name was Christopher Johnson McCandless. He had given $25,000 in savings to charity, abandoned his car and most of his possessions, burned all the cash in his wallet, and invented a new life for himself.”

The Mayor of Castro Street: The Life and Times of Harvey Milk by Randy Shilts

“ The Mayor of Castro Street  is Shilts’s acclaimed story of Harvey Milk, the man whose personal life, public career, and tragic assassination mirrored the dramatic and unprecedented emergence of the gay community in America during the 1970s.”

Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford

“The most famous poet of the Jazz Age, Millay captivated the nation: She smoked in public, took many lovers (men and women, single and married), flouted convention sensationally, and became the embodiment of the New Woman.”

How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Attempts at An Answer by Sarah Bakewell

This book is “a vivid portrait of Montaigne, showing how his ideas gave birth to our modern sense of our inner selves, from Shakespeare’s plays to the dilemmas we face today.”

The Silent Woman: Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes by Janet Malcolm

“From the moment it was first published in The New Yorker, this brilliant work of literary criticism aroused great attention. Janet Malcolm brings her shrewd intelligence to bear on the legend of Sylvia Plath and the wildly productive industry of Plath biographies.”

Last Train to Memphis: The Rise of Elvis Presley   by Peter Guralnick

“Based on hundreds of interviews and nearly a decade of research, [this book] traces the evolution not just of the man but of the music and of the culture he left utterly transformed, creating a completely fresh portrait of Elvis and his world.

Mrs. Robinson’s Disgrace: The Private Diary of a Victorian Lady by Kate Summerscale

“Kate Summerscale brilliantly recreates the Victorian world, chronicling in exquisite and compelling detail the life of Isabella Robinson, wherein the longings of a frustrated wife collided with a society clinging to rigid ideas about sanity, the boundaries of privacy, the institution of marriage, and female sexuality.”

Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare by Stephen Greenblatt

“A young man from a small provincial town moves to London in the late 1580s and, in a remarkably short time, becomes the greatest playwright not of his age alone but of all time. How is an achievement of this magnitude to be explained?”

The Invisible Woman: The Story of Charles Dickens and Nelly Ternan by Claire Tomalin

“When Charles Dickens and Nelly Ternan met in 1857, she was 18: a professional actress performing in his production of  The Frozen Deep . He was 45: a literary legend, a national treasure, married with ten children. This meeting sparked a love affair that lasted over a decade, destroying Dickens’s marriage and ending with Nelly’s near-disappearance from the public record.”

Sojourner Truth: A Life, A Symbol by Nell Irvin Painter

“Slowly, but surely, Sojourner climbed from beneath the weight of slavery, secured respect for herself, and utilized the distinction of her race to become not only a symbol for black women, but for the feminist movement as a whole.”

The Black Rose by Tananarive Due

“Born to former slaves on a Louisiana plantation in 1867, Madam C.J. Walker rose from poverty and indignity to become America’s first black female millionaire, the head of a hugely successful beauty company, and a leading philanthropist in African American causes.”

Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow

“With a breadth and depth matched by no other one-volume life, [Chernow] carries the reader through Washington’s troubled boyhood, his precocious feats in the French and Indian Wars, his creation of Mount Vernon, his heroic exploits with the Continental Army, his presiding over the Constitutional Convention and his magnificent performance as America’s first president.”

Ida: A Sword Among Lions by Paula J. Giddings

“ Ida: A Sword Among Lions  is a sweeping narrative about a country and a crusader embroiled in the struggle against lynching: a practice that imperiled not only the lives of black men and women, but also a nation based on law and riven by race.”

Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser

“But the true saga of [Wilder’s] life has never been fully told. Now, drawing on unpublished manuscripts, letters, diaries, and land and financial records, Caroline Fraser—the editor of the Library of America edition of the Little House series—masterfully fills in the gaps in Wilder’s biography.”

Romantic Outlaws: The Extraordinary Lives of Mary Wollstonecraft and Her Daughter Mary Shelley by Charlotte Gordon

“Although mother and daughter, these two brilliant women never knew one another – Wollstonecraft died of an infection in 1797 at the age of thirty-eight, a week after giving birth. Nevertheless their lives were so closely intertwined, their choices, dreams and tragedies so eerily similar, it seems impossible to consider one without the other.”

Virginia Woolf by Hermione Lee

“Subscribing to Virginia Woolf’s own belief in the fluidity and elusiveness of identity, Lee comes at her subject from a multitude of perspectives, producing a richly layered portrait of the writer and the woman that leaves all of her complexities and contradictions intact.”

Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention by Manning Marable

“Of the great figures in twentieth-century American history perhaps none is more complex and controversial than Malcolm X. Constantly rewriting his own story, he became a criminal, a minister, a leader, and an icon, all before being felled by assassins’ bullets at age thirty-nine.”

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

“On a May afternoon in 1943, an Army Air Forces bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean and disappeared, leaving only a spray of debris and a slick of oil, gasoline, and blood. Then, on the ocean surface, a face appeared. It was that of a young lieutenant, the plane’s bombardier, who was struggling to a life raft and pulling himself aboard. So began one of the most extraordinary odysseys of the Second World War.”

Want to read more about great biographies? Check out this post on presidential biographies , this list of biographies and memoirs about remarkable women , and this list of 100 must-read musician biographies and memoirs .

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21 Qualities of a Good Man You Should Look For

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

Women outnumber men in all but 10 states in the US. Not only are you competing to find a man, but also one of good caliber. I don't mean to sound like a party pooper, but I know you know from experience that a good man is hard to find . You'll probably encounter a lot of toxic guys before meeting a high-quality man.

Finding a man who exhibits the traits you're looking for in a partner is like hitting the relationship jackpot . You'll enjoy a type of healthy and supportive romantic relationship or marriage that promotes happiness and well-being.

Today, I'm going to discuss having dating standards and prepare you to recognize 21 qualities of a good man when he crosses your path.

Table of Contents

Can Men Be Taught Good Qualities?

Yes and no . According to scientists, an individual's core personality is set by the time they reach first grade. Their adult behaviors can be predicted relatively accurately at this stage of development. However, humans have the capacity to reshape their thinking and develop new habits, even though it's not that easy .

While it's possible for men to improve themselves, they have to have a certain level of emotional maturity and self-awareness as well as a desire to change .

Should You Try to Fix a Man?

Women are nurturers by nature and have a tendency to try and fix their significant other. Your boyfriend might rebel, become resentful, or reject you for trying to make him change. You'll feel hurt and try even harder, but he'll relentlessly resist. This may lead to lowered self-esteem, codependency , and resentment on your part.

Even if your man tries, he'll quickly relapse into his old behavioral patterns . Behavioral changes take time and cognitive work such as mindfulness, positive affirmations , and cognitive therapy.

Ask yourself if you're looking for a man who got it together or one you have to teach to be a man . According to Bolde , he’s a grown man. You can’t fix him and you shouldn’t have to. You'll only stress yourself out trying to change him .

As a woman of standards and self-respect, you know it's not your job to groom a man. If he needs fixing, he needs to do it on his own or with the help of a behavioral therapist.

You're better off with someone who exhibits the qualities of a good man, someone who's by nature a good partner, father, and friend. 

Instead of having to teach him how to treat you, you can focus on helping him to become a better version of himself. Both of you and the relationship will benefit as a whole.

The Importance of Dating with High Standards

High-quality women have high standards and choose partners wisely . In dating, standards refer to having a list of things or ideal traits in a potential partner that you're not willing to compromise on .

Call them your non-negotiables . I'm referring to qualities that have nothing to do with his looks, career, financial status, or social connections. It's all about his behavior, values, and belief system .

Your dating-with-standards list can range from refusing to settle for a guy who is emotionally unavailable to one who is avoidant . These are big red flags you shouldn't ignore as he will be unable to meet your emotional needs in a relationship.

A guy with an avoidant personality struggles to communicate his needs and shies away from problem-solving. Instead, he will shut down, withdraw, or stonewall, leaving you unheard, frustrated, or feeling undeserving of his love and attention.

Using your personal dating standards as a guide will help you find someone with the qualities of a good man and who is husband material.  Creating boundaries  also helps you to establish a healthy, supportive relationship instead of one filled with drama.

21 Qualities of a Good Man You Should Look for

Physical attraction and chemistry may help a guy get one foot in the door when he's dealing with you, a woman who knows she deserves the best guy out there. However, he still needs to prove he's worthy of your time, attention, love, and your… everything .

You're more interested in the man within . Of course, you're not expecting him to be perfect, but he should at least demonstrate the following qualities of a good man. 

1. Emotionally Available

You're looking for someone who will provide you with a steady stream of love and affection . If he goes back and forth from hot to cold, that's a sign of emotional unavailability. What you will get is a little love and attention for a few days before he pushes you away.

Emotional availability means your partner is comfortable talking about his personal life , family, childhood, and past romantic relationships. He won't seem closed off, avoid conversations about commitment, or display other signs of emotional unavailability .

There was a guy who tried to engage me in a push-pull, let-us-see-where-this-goes relationship. I called him out on his BS and assured him that I knew I deserved better. Looking back, he had zero of these 21 qualities of a good man.

2. Vulnerable

Many men are of the view that showing feelings or vulnerability is a sign of weakness, but it's mostly about protecting their ego. A man of essence is capable of putting his ego aside. You'll recognize he's comfortable having conversations about his thoughts, feelings, weaknesses, and mistakes .

I once met a guy who claimed he wanted to settle down but had difficulties opening up and letting me see who he was at the core. It appeared as if he was hiding things from me and I hated how suspicious and anxious that made me feel.

He was 40 years old, claimed he was never in love, and wanted to experience it. You should see how he clammed up whenever I mentioned the word “love.”

Following that experience, I run as far away as I can from guys who struggle to open up. Don't waste your time trying to break down the emotional walls of a man who's incapable of loving you. 

3. Commitment-minded

Another one of the qualities of a good man is leaning towards commitment. He's not the type to string you along . In fact, he'll show and tell you earlier on in the dating phase that he's interested in exclusivity and a future with you.

Don't worry, it's easy to spot a commitment-phobic. He doesn't like to make plans ahead of time, cancels at the last minute, and has a track record of short-term relationships . You'll soon start to feel like you're at the bottom of his priority list. Things won't change much unless he wants to work on being a better boyfriend.

4. Respectful

Disrespect in any form doesn't spell well for a healthy relationship. Once it starts, it tends to get worse with time. A high-quality man respects himself and others. Respect is shown in many ways.

For example, valuing your opinions even if he disagrees and allowing you to maintain a life outside of the relationship.

A respectful guy will treat you, everyone connected to you, and even strangers well . He's not going to call you out your name, ever, even when he's angry.

On the other hand, a toxic, immature guy will resort to calling you a “bitch” and other defamatory names. Women with low dating standards and low self-worth are the ones who usually put up with that type of guy.

As a high-quality woman, you'd kick him to the curb the moment he thinks of disrespecting you.

5. Kind and Loving

He's a keeper if he is kind by nature and wired for love. Kindness and authentic love usually go together and are non-negotiable qualities of a good man. Ensure you do a kindness and compassion test on him. By that, I mean observing how he treats everyone else.

Does he talk down to people he thinks are inferior to him, e.g, the wait staff at restaurants? He's a wolf in sheep's clothing if he shows you a nice face, but is mean to others, including kids, or cruel to animals.

6. Emotionally Intelligent

It's a game-changer when you find a man who can put himself in your shoes and understand how you feel. It's called empathy and is a big sign of emotional intelligence (EQ) . It's easier for a man to mistreat you if he cannot see or is unwilling to acknowledge how his behaviors affect you.

You'll know the guy you have your eyes on is emotionally intelligent if he is kind and supportive when you're in distress. He has the ability to perceive, understand, use, and manage negative emotions in positive ways .

Even though he's authentic and straightforward, he's mindful of his words , so as not to offend or hurt you. Other signs of EQ include being honest, humble, forgiving, and able to self-reflect and apologize.

7. Good Communicator

Couples complain all the time that a lack of communication is chipping away at their relationship. There's going to be a lot of passive-aggressive behaviors like pouting and refusal to speak if you're dating someone with an avoidant attachment style or narcissistic traits.

Thank your lucky stars if you're seeing a guy who actively listens to you, makes eye contact, doesn't interrupt, and doesn't dismiss your opinions. As a good communicator, he will respond after choosing the right words and provide validation. His attentiveness is a sign that he's connected and values you, your thoughts, as well as your feelings.

8. Trustworthiness

You struck gold if you found a trustworthy guy. Trustworthiness is at the top of my list of qualities of a good man, particularly because it encompasses so many traits that speak to a man's honesty and overall moral integrity .

Characteristics of a trustworthy man include being consistent, reliable, dependable, willing to compromise, and respectful of boundaries. The need to have a man with these standards becomes greater if you're bringing kids into the relationship. You must be fully confident that he will respect and treat them well .

9. Secure-attachment Style

According to John Bowlby's Attachment Theory , individuals with a secure attachment style make better romantic partners. Compared to the anxious and avoidant styles, a secure man won't overbear you with his feelings or push you away. He's emotionally and mentally balanced, well-grounded, and has healthy self-esteem and self-confidence.

He is honest, trusting, trustworthy, and comfortable showing his vulnerable side. This guy is calm and self-assured. Being with him feels like “home . ” You won't have to chase after him because he's not the one to play mind games. Instead, he'll state his romantic intentions upfront , treat you like a priority, and make you feel safe, secure, and protected .

Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, you're in luck.  Over 50% of the population is secure attachment types. I've had the good fortune of marrying a secure man. They're not perfect but come with a long list of amazing qualities that overshadow their shortcomings.

If you find a guy like this, cherish him. Secure attachment style men feel the most committed to their romantic relationships  and usually don't remain on the market for long .

10. Accountable

Toxic men shirk their responsibilities and are unwilling to own up to their problematic behaviors. Not only are they emotionally immature, but they also shift blame and play the victim even when they're the ones causing the chaos.

A good man is confident in himself and will acknowledge his mistakes, instead of lying, denying, defending, or blaming you . People with narcissistic tendencies are known for pathological lying and blame-shifting to avoid accountability. They use gas lighting tactics to abuse you emotionally and make you question your own reality.

Narcissist or not, it's impossible to enjoy a healthy, loving, respecting, and supportive relationship with anyone who is unable to man up.

11. Emotionally Stable

You can enjoy a loving, happy, and healthy relationship with a man who has stable emotions and is able to self-regulate when things go wrong. As women, we need to be 100% honest with ourselves and stop giving men an easy pass because they're cute or financially stable. What about emotional stability or anger problems?

Emotional instability is an instant deal breaker for me, along with lies, game-playing, and disrespect. Unstable emotions are usually a sign of mental illness, such as mood disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD) , or bipolar disorder. Beware!

You're signing up for a rollercoaster relationship if you choose a guy who “looks good on paper” but cannot control his anger or self-regulate negative emotions . And, please, don't try to become his therapist, savior, or fixer.

Stand in your truth knowing you're deserving of love and a happy relationship or marriage . Show empathy and compassion for his struggles, but don't feel guilty if you have to quit him. You'll probably save yourself from physical or emotional abuse if you leave before the guy starts lashing out or becomes unhinged. 

12.  Faithful

A faithful man is a man whose loyalty doesn't waver toward you.   In the good or the bad, a good man makes choices with your best interest in mind .  He considers how his decisions affect you and how others will view you because of his choices. 

For example, Aaron works in an office with many single men and women.  His co-workers know he has a loving and caring wife at home to whom he is devoted and faithful.  Everyone who knows him well is very aware of it.  

One morning, after a disagreement with his wife, Aaron went to work, and his co-workers noticed he didn't seem like himself. 

One of the single ladies in the office (who was attracted to Aaron) tried to get him to open up about the issue that was bothering him, even offering to hug him and treat him to lunch. 

Knowing how it would look to others, Aaron declined to talk about the issue and turned down the offer for lunch, especially if others from the office didn't join them.

He not only wanted to avoid putting himself in a situation that tempted him to be unfaithful, but because of his loyalty toward his wife, he sought to avoid the appearance of unfaithfulness.

13.  Dependable

A good man is a dependable man that you can rely on to do what he says when he says he will do it. No one wants to make a date with a guy who doesn't show up because he forgot or simply didn't make you a priority. 

For instance, Dana really liked Jeffrey, and they both tried dating for a while.  But he lacked dependability, and that was a red flag to her.  They would schedule dates, and she would eagerly show up. 

Still, he either wouldn't show, or he didn't prioritize the date and later talked about rescheduling.  His behavior could have opened the door for Dana to feel insecure had she not been strong enough to walk away. 

14.  Sense of humor

A good man is not just a man who makes you laugh but finds great joy in making you smile when you don't feel like it.   For example, he is witty enough to put on music and sing with a hideous voice just to improve your mood.  

A good sense of humor can brighten a dark day and diffuse tension in a room , like a fresh breeze on a hot summer day.   Being around a man who doesn’t take life too seriously all the time is refreshing. 

For instance, Derrick and Megan have been dating for over 6 months.  They just moved in together a few weeks ago.  The two of them work stressful jobs, often bringing the stress and tension home. 

However, Derrick, devoted to making the home a safe space and peaceful environment, uses his humor to make Megan laugh and relieve much of her stress from the day.  After good laughs, the two talk about their day calmly and reasonably. 

Derrick's humor has helped Megan navigate difficult family moments and personal crises.  As a result, not only has she begun to lean on him, but they rely on each other for advice and comfort after a rough day.  This allows them to move past the stress to enjoy being home and away from the chaos of the outside world.

15.  Romantic

Like being kind and loving, a good man tends to be very romantic.  He consistently thinks of ways to express himself in a relationship that shows the magnitude of his affection for his partner.  

When we hear the word romantic, we often think of physical intimacy, but it goes way beyond that.  Instead, it's loving, serving, and offering kind gestures that outwardly express what is felt on the inside.  

For instance, Kal had deep feelings for his girlfriend, Taylor.  So, each week he made it his priority to do things, aside from going on a date, to let Taylor know she was special to him. 

So, Kal had flowers sent to her office at work, left sweet notes around her house when he visited, and cleaned ice and snow from her car and driveway in inclement weather.  He did those things because her well-being was important to him, and he wanted her to know it.    

16.  Generous

A good man is a generous and giving one.  He always thinks of blessing others , and in many circumstances, he makes others' needs a priority.  For example, Eric is a single guy who makes a good living as a carpenter. 

He is known as a charitable man in the community.  Not only does he give of his money, but he also volunteers much of his time helping the elderly in his city with small projects around their houses.  If he didn't do it, there is no way they could afford to pay someone. 

A generous man believes in leaving people better than he found them.

17.  Cooks and Cleans

A man can be good and not good at cooking or cleaning.  Still, according to psychology , women find that trait in a man irresistible.   Still, if he prioritizes cleanliness and is a good cook, you’ve got a good man on your hands.  

In relationships, we see where one partner (usually the wife) prioritizes cooking, cleaning, and overall home organization. 

But a man willing to cook and clean usually understands the value of partnership to make things go smoothly in the home. He recognizes that it shouldn't fall on one person's shoulders in the relationship.

18.  Confident

Confident men aren’t trying to be something they are not.  Instead, they are comfortable in their own skin and are less likely to be fickle.  When most of you think of a confident man, you may think of a guy who is overconfident and abrasive . 

But a good man can keep that in balance.  He knows who he is and lives life from that perspective .  This means you won't get down the road and discover unsavory things he was afraid to discuss with you because he “didn't want to lose you.” 

Moreover, a confident man believes that his mistakes and shortcoming made him into the strong and bold man he is today.

19.  Moral Integrity (as a Standard of Faith)

Good men have a moral standard they seek to uphold, no matter the circumstances.   You also know a man is good when he will carefully uphold the standards of his faith and treat you, his family, and others well. 

His dedication to God (who is loving, forgiving, and compassionate) should reflect how he treats others and views life as a whole.  Lastly, as a result, he is always looking to grow in integrity and be a better version of himself every day.  

20.  Goal Oriented

A good man sets goals.  It shows that he is willing to improve upon himself and the situations surrounding his life.  It also demonstrates that he doesn’t take life lying down and accepts every situation that befalls him or his family.   He sees better (in his mind) and plans to bring it to pass. 

So, a goal-oriented man is a man who is “going places in life” because he has vision.  And a man with vision later becomes a man who is accomplished.  And an accomplished man is certainly one you will be proud of.  

21.  Humble

Good men are humble.  They aren’t pushovers , but they understand their limitations and don’t mind giving credit where credit is due .  Additionally, a good man will step back to let others shine while playing to their strengths . 

Furthermore, he is not self-absorbed because it doesn't matter who gets the credit as long as everyone wins.  For instance, Chris' wife received a promotion on her job and now makes more money than him.  Naturally, his close friends found out and teased him about it. 

However, Chris expressed to them how proud he was of her and that she worked hard to get where she is.  Furthermore, he has no issues with her bringing home the bigger salary if their goals as a couple and family are accomplished.

Final Thoughts on Qualities of a Good Man

Connecting with a fine gentleman is easier when you know exactly what it is you're looking for . You're able to see through the BS almost immediately and quickly filter out men who are into game playing.

Don't bother trying to love a guy into emotional submission , mold him to suit your taste, compromise your standards or settle.

You deserve someone who is physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to pursue a healthy relationship and marriage. Continue to keep your standards high by repeating  70 Affirmations for Self-Worth and Love Yourself More .

Finally, if you want to identify YOUR personality type, then take one of these 11 personality tests to better understand what makes you tick .

37 Qualities Of a Good Man You Should Look For

Are you looking for a good man? Do you know what to look for?

Dating and finding long-term love involves some forethought.

With something as significant as dating and marriage, you want to figure out what you value in a partner.

You naturally want love and companionship, but you shouldn’t compromise on things that matter to you.

Knowing what you want empowers you to make strategic choices that could lead to a satisfying and happy relationship.

What to look for in a guy varies a little according to individual tastes, but some things stand out as the best qualities in a man.

How Do You Define a Good Man?

1. intelligence, 2. sense of humor, 3. takes responsibility, 4. maturity, 5. treats others kindly, 6. self-directed, 7. shares power, 8. doesn't micromanage, 9. trusts you, 10. shows interest in your friends and family, 11. puts effort into relationship, 12. responds to feedback, 13. emotional self-awareness, 14. sees your emotions as valid, 15. helpful, 16. nurturing, 17. protective, 18. plans for the future, 19. likes to learn new things, 20. shares information, 21. tells you about his needs, 22. honesty, 23. gives you credit, 24. values your career, 26. reliable, 27. courteous manners, 28. self-confidence, 29. patient, 30. positive attitude, 31. wants to build others up, 32. emotional intelligence, 33. future-oriented, 34. laughs a lot, 35. keeps it real, 36. into self-improvement, 37. actually listens, why you should not try to fix a man, can men learn good qualities, final thoughts.

When searching for a partner, many women wonder what qualities make a “good man.” This question has multiple answers depending on individual values and preferences. However, some general traits repeatedly emerge.

• Integrity and honesty – A good man acts with integrity, keeping his word and respecting others. He is honest about his feelings and intentions.
• Work ethic and responsibility – He works hard at his commitments and takes responsibility for his actions. He strives to improve himself and provide for his family.
• Maturity and confidence – A good man behaves maturely, controlling his emotions and dealing effectively with stress. He has quiet confidence in his own abilities.
• Respect and caring – He respects women as equals and shows caring in romantic relationships. He values communication, understanding, and compromise.

The specific traits that define a “good man” ultimately depend on each woman's unique beliefs and what she hopes for in a partner.

37 Qualities of a Good Man

Instead of trying to figure out, “What is the most attractive quality in a man?” you may want to identify your top 10 to 20 qualities.

A man who shows all these qualities of a good man is rare indeed, but someone whose character includes most of what you're looking for in man could delight you for the rest of your life.

Your guy may not need a Nobel Prize in Physics, but intelligence is a highly sought after quality. Someone with a good head on his shoulders should have the mental skill to understand himself and be considerate of others. He should be as smart as you are, so you can both enjoy conversation and interests on the same level.

Can you really fall in love if he doesn't get your jokes? A sense of humor also guides a person through the tough times that inevitably occur throughout life. The ability to lighten the mood counteracts negative emotions and makes things easier for both of you.

You want a man who recognizes that he is accountable for his actions. A good man accepts that he is an adult who must take care of himself and those dependent on him. He follows through on his promises and obligations. 

At some point, the juvenile antics need to end so he can focus on more important things like supporting himself and being responsible. A mature man appreciates other people and can make rational decisions. He also may be ready for a long-term commitment because he has grown past immature desires for instant gratification.

If you want a kind man like most women, you can judge that by how he treats others. Genuine kindness goes beyond how he treats you. Pay attention to how he interacts with service employees or talks about his co-workers. Notice if he expresses sympathy for people's plights and is quick to lend a helping hand.

This trait could spare you arguments about why the house is a mess when you come home. A self-directed person does not need to be told what to do. A man with this quality will see what needs to be done and do it. You won't have to nag him to do anything.

A man who does not need everyone bowing to his authority supports you in feeling capable and appreciated. He is happy letting you make your own decisions and values your independence. He does not care about having the final word about everything.

Sometimes people believe that they are helpful when they stand over your shoulder and tell you exactly what to do. You'll be better off with a man who doesn't assume that you need his guidance about everything.

A man who trusts you won't be vulnerable to unreasonable jealousy . He'll know you well enough to have faith that you're committed to him. He'll be comfortable letting you go about your business without needing to control what's happening.

This behavior signals that he values you enough to give time and energy to the people who matter in your life.

Showing your family courtesy and socializing with your friends means that he wants to embrace the big picture of what life with you entails.

Maintaining a meaningful relationship requires ongoing work. Romance should last beyond the first few dates. A man who stays attentive to your needs , suggests new things to do for fun, or maintains his appearance is making an effort to keep the flames of love going.

All couples in relationships have complaints and disputes. His willingness to correct annoying behavior when asked shows that he's listening to you. He cares enough to accept that you were upset and that he can do better.

Men often lack the skill of understanding their emotions. They assume that they're rational when that is the farthest thing from the truth.

A man who knows why he's sad, mad, afraid, or happy possesses self-awareness. He has a greater capacity to cope. This skill protects him from the destructive impulse to shove emotions away without examining them.

You've heard the joke that the worst things a man can say to a woman are “calm down” or “you're overreacting.” Phrases like these represent a complete dismissal of your feelings. A man willing to accept your emotions as they are and proceed from there will make you feel heard and supported.

Relationships are all about helping each other. Helpfulness is an excellent trait in a man because he wants to make a difference in your life. He’s willing to inconvenience himself and go the extra mile because he cares for you and wants to help you.

Stereotypes give women the role of nurturer, but some men are innate nurturers. You may know the word “husband” as a noun, but it also has an archaic meaning as a verb — to till and cultivate. A nurturing man grows things. Don't underestimate the value of this trait.

Biologically, men are generally bigger and stronger than women. They also have an instinctual drive to protect their families and communities. As long as a man's protective trait does not cross the line into overly controlling behavior, he'll have your back.

Living in the moment has its merits, but wise people think about what comes next. A man who engages in long-term thinking has an advantage over most people. Knowing he has plans gives you a sense of security and knowledge about who he is and what he wants from life.

A man who pursues new knowledge and perspectives can adapt to change. Long-term love requires accepting that some things will change. He'll have the right attitude to cope with changing situations at home or work.

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When he keeps you informed about what's going on in his life, he's showing you courtesy. He realizes that being mysterious about what he's doing could make you worry needlessly. He doesn’t hold back information to control or manipulate you. He feels secure enough with you to share. 

Many men aren't great about sharing their feelings, but a man who'll honestly tell you what he feels is doing you (and himself) a favor. You won't have to guess what he wants and wonder what’s in his heart. Essentially, he says what he means and doesn't expect you to read his mind.

Everyone, regardless of gender, needs honesty in a relationship. You should consider this a mission-critical trait in a partner. He needs to be honest in the small things as well as the large. 

When he lets others know that you're the one responsible for something great, you can know that he's proud of you. He never downplays your talents or switches the spotlight to himself when he doesn't deserve it.

You'll want to look for a man who appreciates your independence and ambition. A man who sees your job as an essential part of your life is ready to help you succeed. Your success doesn’t threaten him.

You certainly want to look for a man who will be faithful to the relationship. You'll be able to spot a man capable of loyalty because he's sincere. He also possesses personal integrity, which means his principles guide his decisions and actions.

A man can love you with all of his heart but still forget to pick you up at the airport. You want a man who does what he says he'll do. A reliable person reduces relationship stress because you can count on him.

Good manners are free to all. A man who displays good manners has learned that everyone deserves basic courtesy. Good manners reflect that he respects not only you but also himself. 

You'll see confidence high on lists of desirable traits for men. Self-confidence prevents insecurity and neediness in the relationship, which can lead to misunderstandings and fights.

Confidence is a highly attractive quality — unless it slides into arrogance. Be mindful of how you evaluate a man's confidence. He may be faking it to appear in control but is really insecure behind the facade.

Patience can fix many problems and even prevent them. A good man knows time is the best cure for strong emotions. He'll give you or himself time to cool down before trying to address a problem. He also understands timing and is willing to wait for something worthwhile.

Some people see themselves as victims. Others may understand that they've been a victim but still hope for good fortune. A man who believes that things can get better is much easier to live with than someone who always expects the worst.

A supportive man who shares his energy so that others can reach their goals proves that he's not self-centered. He finds joy when he helps you or someone else deal with a challenge.

It's not all about book smarts. A guy who gets feelings – both his and yours – brings warmth and understanding to those heart-to-heart chats, making every emotional rollercoaster a bit easier to ride together.

Sure, living in the moment is great, but a man with dreams and plans for what’s ahead is like a breath of fresh air. He’s all about building a beautiful tomorrow, together, making every step forward exciting.

Life’s too short to not crack up over the small stuff. If he’s quick to find humor in the day-to-day and can make you giggle even when you’re not up for it, you’ve got a keeper.

Honesty is everything. A partner who’s genuine, dropping the facade and sharing his true self, is someone you can trust and vibe with on a deeper level.

A guy who’s on a never-ending quest to be his best self? Yes, please. It’s not just about hitting the gym but growing in ways that matter, showing he’s in it for the long haul.

Ever talk and feel like you’re just being heard, not listened to? A good man is all ears, really taking in what you say, proving that what matters to you matters to him, too.

Between advertisements, social media, films, and television shows, we’re bombarded with ideals daily. But nobody is perfect. We all have faults and annoying peccadillos and behave poorly when not feeling our best.

And while people can — and often do — change for the better, trying to fix someone is never a good idea. 

Why? Here are a few reasons:

• People Must Change Themselves : True change comes from within. While making suggestions in some situations is acceptable, you can’t force someone to be who they’re not.
• It’s Stressful All Around : Trying to mold someone into who you want them to be is stressful for them and you too. They’ll have anxiety about you not loving them the way they are, and you’ll get frustrated they’re not improving fast enough.
• They’re Not Ready : How old is the man in question? If he’s younger, he may still be in his “sowing wild oats” stage and not ready to become a responsible adult.
• They Don’t Want To Change : Some people like how they are — faults and all. Heck, it’s healthy to accept oneself as is. So if someone doesn’t adhere to your standards, let them free, so you can both find people who fit.

Absolutely. While some qualities come more naturally to certain personalities, any man can develop positive traits with conscious effort. The key is motivation and commitment to personal growth. By working on emotional intelligence, integrity, communication skills and cultivating compassion, men can transform into their best selves.

What Do You Want in a Man?

In the beginning stages of romance , your focus may be on physical characteristics. 

Beyond the physical, financial prospects often enter the equation — although it might not be as crucial as it was historically.

A global survey of women asked them about everything from appearance to education to religion. The answer to, “What are the qualities of a good man to marry?” differed by country. 

• In the United States, shared religious beliefs ranked highest among women looking for marriage.
• Money mattered the most to women in Japan.
• Women in France ranked it near the bottom.

Regardless of regional differences, women universally chose kindness as their biggest priority.

As you can see, you have many things to consider when thinking about what to look for in a guy. Some qualities come down to personal preference, but some traits are essential, like honesty and loyalty. 

Don't let your desire to see the best qualities in a man blind you to his shortcomings. Avoid projecting traits on him that aren't there. Try to be objective so that you can move forward with confidence when a guy checks off the essential boxes on your list.

Flannery O'Connor: Biography

Mary Flannery O’Connor (1925-1964) is one of the greatest American short-story writers , a novelist, and an essayist. She wrote in the Southern Gothic style, portraying her native Georgia and the other Southern States. Among the themes raised in her books were religion, moral decay, family, and human decency.

Read the full Flannery O’Connor’s biography prepared by our editorial team to find out more!

• 👪 Early Years

😷 Illness & Death

• 🗺️ Navigation

🎓 References

📈 flannery o’connor: timeline.

Below is the timeline of Flannery O’Connor. It reflects the most important events of the writer’s life.

👪 Flannery O’Connor: Early Years

Mary Flannery O’Connor was born on March 25, 1925 . She was the only child in a Roman Catholic family of Irish descent. Her father was a real estate appraiser. She lived in Savannah, Georgia, until her adolescence. In 1931, she was admitted to St. Vincent’s Grammar School. By the fifth grade, she was transferred to Sacred Heart Grammar School for Girls.

Flannery spent more time with books than friends, even though her relations with other girls were amicable.

Unfortunately, Edward Francis O`Connor, the father, had lupus erythematosus , which got worse in 1938. Thus, the family moved to rural Milledgeville. It was her mother’s homestead when she was a child. So, they lived in the old mansion with Flannery’s aunts, Mary and Katie, who never got married. Her father came home only on the weekends, but Flannery seemed to enjoy the new place.

In the same year, Flannery went to the experimental Peabody School . It was too progressive, with low stress on the classics, as O’Connor remarked later. After a rapid aggravation, her father died in 1941. The writer avoided providing any revelations about her father, save the fact that she continued his legacy.

Peabody High School had close relations with Georgia State College for Women (presently, Georgia College & State University ).

Flannery graduated from the College in 1945. The University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop helped her to master creative writing.

The writing style of Flannery O’Connor was influenced by James Joyce, Robert Fitzgerald, William Faulkner, and Franz Kafka.

Her first short story appeared in 1946. Wise Blood , her first novel, appeared in 1952 , exploring the “religious consciousness without a religion,” as explained by O’Connor. In 1955 , her other short stories were collected in A Good Man Is Hard to Find and Other Stories . The eponymous story of the collection is regarded as her best-known work.

Her other fiction works include The Violent Bear It Away and the collection of essays, Mystery and Manners , that was posthumously published in 1969. The Complete Stories that appeared in 1971 won a National Book Award in 1972. This edition contained several stories that had never appeared in publications before.

O’Connor’s works are notable for the seeming mismatch of devout Catholic worldview with the grim, ironic writing that commonly features appalling acts of violence and unlikeable and vicious characters. The prevalence of brutality in her literature was used to return the characters to reality and prepare them to meet their moment of grace.

Although she is commonly related to the Southern Gothic writing style, she always insisted that this assessment was too narrow. She also rejected any requests to generalize her works by interviewers. Obviously, she wanted not just to entertain her audience, but also to educate it.

For more than a decade (since 1952), she suffered from lupus erythematosus, a genetic disease she inherited from her father. Most of these years were spent at Andalusia Farm in Georgia . Despite the illness, she wrote more than twenty short stories and two novels over this period.

She started her mornings attending Mass, then spent some hours writing, and in the afternoon, she recuperated and read.

O’Connor went to the Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta due to anemia in December 1963. She kept on writing there, as much as her health condition allowed.

Next July, she won the O. Henry Award for her story “ Revelation .” Unfortunately, soon after this success, doctors found a tumor and removed it at Baldwin County Hospital. On August 3, 1964 , Flannery O’Connor passed away because of renal failure. She managed to live seven years longer than the doctors expected.

In 1965, her last stories were published in the posthumous edition Everything That Rises Must Converge by Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

• Flannery O’Connor | Biography, Short Stories, Books, Style
• Flannery O’Connor (1925-1964) | New Georgia Encyclopedia
• How Racist Was Flannery O’Connor? | The New Yorker
• Flannery O’Connor – Books, Short Stories & Facts – Biography
• List of Books by Flannery O’Connor | Barnes & Noble
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A Good Man: Rediscovering My Father, Sargent Shriver Hardcover – June 5, 2012

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In this intimate portrait of an extraordinary father-son relationship, Mark K. Shriver discovers the moral principles that guided his legendary father and applies them to his own life

When Sargent "Sarge" Shriver―founder of the Peace Corps and architect of President Johnson's War on Poverty―died in 2011 after a valiant fight with Alzheimer's, thousands of tributes poured in from friends and strangers worldwide. These tributes, which extolled the daily kindness and humanity of "a good man," moved his son Mark far more than those who lauded Sarge for his big-stage, headline-making accomplishments. After a lifetime searching for the path to his father's success in the public arena, Mark instead turns to a search for the secret of his father's joy, his devotion to others, and his sense of purpose. Mark discovers notes and letters from Sarge; hears personal stories from friends and family that zero in on the three guiding principles of Sarge's life―faith, hope, and love―and recounts moments with Sarge that now take on new value and poignancy. In the process, Mark discovers much about himself, as a father, as a husband, and as a social justice advocate. A Good Man is an inspirational and deeply personal story about a son discovering the true meaning of his father's legacy.

• Print length 288 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Henry Holt and Co.
• Publication date June 5, 2012
• Dimensions 5.95 x 1.16 x 8.66 inches
• ISBN-10 9780805095302
• ISBN-13 978-0805095302
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Editorial Reviews

“Since most people are happiest doing what they are good at, it's no wonder that Sargent Shriver was always smiling. He was good in every role he filled--husband, father, friend, public servant, and visionary. And he was as inspiring as they come. Mark's poignant tribute captures the idealism and exuberance that made us all love Sarge, and reminds us to find pleasure in the simple act of living.” ― Former President Bill Clinton

“This tender, endearing memoir is a moving portrait of a son's struggle to deal with the gradual disappearance of a beloved father through the progressive stages of Alzheimer's. It is a praiseworthy book.” ― Doris Kearns Goodwin

“This is a deeply touching story of a famous family and the private joys and trials that came with it. Mark's love letter to his Dad is one we can all learn from.” ― Tom Brokaw

“As founder of the Peace Corps, Sargent Shriver had the genius to change lives, mine included. With this powerful book, his son Mark shows a great man can also be a good man. What a joy to read about Sarge, the father. In a real way, he was father to everyone who ever served in the Peace Corps.” ― Chris Matthews

“What a lovely book this is. It's funny and sad and inspiring without being insipid. Why was it, this loving son wanted to know, that everyone described his highly accomplished father, Sarge Shriver, as a ‘good man'? In the middle of the active and ambitious Kennedy and Shriver families, Mark Shriver comes to understand his father's faith in God's love anchored him and allowed him to do all that he did so well, including dealing with his own Alzheimer's. In getting to know his father better even after his death, Shriver learns some lessons useful to all of us.” ― Cokie Roberts, author of We Are Our Mothers' Daughters

“In A Good Man , Mark Shriver gives a rich personal account of growing up with a father whose boundless optimism and life of public service made a profound difference for millions of people. Read it and come away, like Mark, reenergized and re-inspired to follow Sargent Shriver's extraordinary example.” ― Marian Wright Edelman, President, Children's Defense Fund

“Asking around, in order to write about Sarge Shriver, I could find no one with a bad word to say about him. This book tells why. The mystery of goodness is deeper than the mystery of evil.” ― Garry Wills

About the Author

Mark K. Shriver is the senior vice president of U.S. Programs at Save the Children in Washington, D.C., and a former Maryland state legislator. Shriver also started the Choice Program and served on the coalition to create the National Commission on Children and Disasters following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. He lives with his wife and three children in Maryland.

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0805095306
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Henry Holt and Co.; First Edition (June 5, 2012)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 288 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780805095302
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0805095302
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 14.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.95 x 1.16 x 8.66 inches
• #2,620 in Religious Leader Biographies
• #2,652 in Political Leader Biographies
• #11,163 in Personal Transformation Self-Help

About the author

Mark k. shriver.

Mark Shriver is President of Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School & Corporate Work Study Program, a high school serving young people in the Washington DC-area. Hailing from 60 zip codes, 85% of students qualify for free and reduced meals. Every student participates in a rigorous college-prep curriculum while working at local businesses once a week. 100% of graduates since the school’s inception in 2007 have been accepted to college.

In addition, Mark is Senior Advisor at Save the Children. Shriver joined Save the Children in 2003 and developed the agency’s domestic early childhood and school-age education programs, which today reach children in more than 200 underserved rural communities. He also created Save the Children’s domestic emergencies programs to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children before, during and after disaster strikes.

An advocate for children throughout his career, Shriver led a national coalition that convinced Congress to create the National Commission on Children and Disasters. He was appointed to the Commission by Senator Harry Reid of Nevada; he was elected chairperson by his fellow commissioners and served in that role for the life of the Commission (2008-2011).

In 2013, Shriver created Save the Children’s political advocacy arm, Save the Children Action Network

(SCAN). SCAN seeks to build bipartisan solutions and generate voter support for policies that ensure that every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. With a grassroots network of 375,000 supporters across all 50 states, SCAN is working to ensure that every child in the U.S. has access to high-quality early childhood education, to protect migrant children arriving at the southern U.S. border and to promote girls’ empowerment around the world.

Shriver was a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 1994 to 2002. He was the first Chair of the Joint Committee on Children, Youth and Families, and was appointed Chair of the Children and Youth Subcommittee of Maryland's House Ways and Means Committee. He was repeatedly recognized as Outstanding Legislator of the Year by prominent advocacy and civic organizations.

In 1988, Shriver founded the innovative Choice Program, which serves delinquent and at-risk youth through intensive, community-based counseling. He subsequently created The Choice Jobs Program, Inc., which trains, places, and supports former Choice clients in jobs, as well as The Choice Middle Schools Program, a model for keeping at-risk middle school children in school.

Shriver received his B.A. from The College of the Holy Cross and a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University.

A bestselling author, his latest book, 10 Hidden Heroes, was published in March 2021. He is also the author of Pilgrimage: My Search for the Real Pope Francis and A Good Man: Rediscovering My Father, Sargent Shriver.

Shriver lives with his wife, Jeanne, and their three children, Molly, Tommy and Emma, in Maryland.

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100 Qualities Of A Good Man

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You know, it’s easy to say, “Be a good man!” But what does that really mean? What makes a man good? 

Is it how strong he is? Or how rich? Or maybe how smart? 

Well, let’s clear the confusion and get real for a moment.

Being a good man isn’t about muscles, money, or Mensa memberships. It’s about qualities that are way more important. 

Respect, honesty, kindness – now, we’re talking! These are the qualities that make a man truly good. A man who’s not just admired for what he has, but loved for who he is.

Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry! We’ve got it all laid out for you, neatly packed in this article. We’re talking about a hundred, yes, 100 qualities of a good man. 

These are the traits that take a man from good to great, from admirable to inspiring.

1. A good man respects people

Respect. That elusive quality that separates the gentlemen from the boys. You see, a good man understands the importance of respect, he knows it’s the building block of any successful relationship. 

Whether it’s his friends, family, or the guy who delivers his morning coffee, a good man acknowledges their worth. But remember, respect is a two-way street, it’s not just about giving, but also about being able to receive it.

Let’s be clear, respect is not synonymous with agreement. A good man knows that. He understands that he can respect someone’s viewpoint without necessarily agreeing with it. 

A good man treats people with courtesy, he listens when they speak, and he never ever uses his words as weapons. In short, he treats people the way he wants to be treated.

2. He’s a man of integrity

Integrity, ever heard of it? Sure you have. A good man is well acquainted with this quality. He is a man of his word. 

When he says he will do something, consider it done. He doesn’t shift his beliefs like the wind, he stands by his values even when it’s not convenient.

And let’s be honest, integrity isn’t about being perfect. Heck no! A good man knows he’s far from perfect, but he strives to be honest about his flaws. 

He admits when he’s wrong, he takes responsibility for his actions, and he does his best to make things right. Integrity is the bedrock of his character, and it shines through in everything he does.

(Related: What Makes a Man a Man? (10 Defining Characteristics)

3. He treats people with kindness

Being kind doesn’t make him weak, it makes him human. A good man knows that. He treats people with kindness because he understands that everyone is fighting a battle we know nothing about. 

He is gentle with his words and considerate with his actions. He takes the time to help a stranger, to comfort a friend, to encourage a colleague.

But here’s the kicker, a good man’s kindness is not selective. He doesn’t reserve it only for the people he likes or the ones who can benefit him. 

No siree! He extends his kindness to everyone he meets. Because at the end of the day, kindness is a reflection of who he is, not who they are.

4. He understands the value of hard work

Now, this is something a good man knows like the back of his hand. He understands the importance of hard work. He’s not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty. 

He’s the guy who stays late at the office to finish a project, the guy who goes the extra mile to make sure his work is done right.

Hard work for a good man is not just about achieving success, it’s about growth. He values the lessons learned from the process as much as the outcome. He knows that every challenge faced, every problem solved, every hurdle crossed, makes him a better man. So, he works hard not just to succeed, but to evolve, to become the best version of himself.

5. Good men don’t play games with women

Ahem! Hear that, fellas? A good man knows better than to play games with a woman’s heart. He is clear about his intentions and respectful of her feelings. 

He doesn’t lead her on, he doesn’t make false promises, and he most definitely doesn’t manipulate her emotions for his own benefit.

A good man treats women with the respect and dignity they deserve. He values their thoughts, appreciates their wisdom, and cherishes their company. 

When a good man commits, he commits. He invests in the relationship, he communicates, he makes efforts. He understands that love is not a game to be won, but a journey to be shared.

6. He is dependable

Trust me, when a good man says he’s got your back, he’s got your back. He is reliable, dependable, and trustworthy. Whether it’s a work deadline, a personal promise, or a friendly bet, you can count on him to come through.

Dependability for a good man is not just about fulfilling obligations, it’s about being there when needed. It’s about showing up for his loved ones, being a shoulder to lean on, a rock in times of adversity. Dependability is not an act for him, it’s a part of who he is.

7. A good man values his time

Time, the one thing we all wish we had more of. A good man knows the importance of this precious commodity. He values his time, he makes the most of it. He doesn’t waste it on unproductive activities or negative people.

But here’s the twist, a good man values not just his time but also the time of others. He is punctual, he respects deadlines, he doesn’t keep people waiting. 

He understands that time once gone, can never be reclaimed. So he makes every second count, not just for himself but also for the people in his life.

[Read: 5 Defining Traits of a High-Value Man ]

8. He takes care of himself

Alright gents, it’s time to talk about self-care. No, it’s not just for the ladies. A good man understands the importance of taking care of himself, both physically and mentally. 

He exercises, he eats well, he gets enough sleep. He knows that a healthy body contributes to a healthy mind.

But let’s not forget, self-care for a good man goes beyond the physical. He takes time to unwind, to relax, to recharge. 

He values his mental health as much as his physical health. He understands that taking care of himself is not selfish, it’s essential. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

9. He shows empathy towards others

There’s something truly special about a man who can put himself in someone else’s shoes. A good man shows empathy. He understands that empathy is not just about feeling sorry for someone, it’s about understanding their feelings, their struggles, their point of view.

A good man doesn’t just sympathize, he empathizes. He listens, he comforts, he supports. He treats people with kindness and compassion, not because it’s expected of him, but because it’s a part of who he is.

10. A good man is generous

He knows that generosity is not just about giving money or material things. It’s about sharing time, knowledge, and experience. It’s about giving love, support, respect.

A good man gives without expecting anything in return. He helps because he can, not because he has to. He understands that true generosity is about giving not just what you can, but also what you are. 

His generosity is a reflection of his character, and it makes him not just a good man, but a great one.

11. He shows empathy towards others

Empathy, folks, is a biggie. You see, a good man doesn’t just sympathize with others; he empathizes. He gets it. 

He gets that empathy is not just about feeling for someone, it’s about feeling with someone. He understands your joys and your pains, your highs and your lows. He walks in your shoes, not to judge you, but to understand you.

And the best part? His empathy is not exclusive. Whether it’s a friend in trouble, a coworker having a bad day, or a homeless person on the street, a good man shows empathy to all. 

He knows that we’re all human, all flawed, all beautifully unique, and that makes everyone deserving of understanding and compassion.

[Interesting: 10 Manly Hobbies That Make Men More Attractive ]

12. A good man is selfless

A good man knows that selflessness is not about the size of your wallet, but the size of your heart. 

He gives without expecting anything in return. He helps because he can, not because he has to. He shares his time, his knowledge, and his experience freely.

But here’s the real kicker: his generosity extends beyond material things. He’s generous with his love, his respect, his patience, his understanding. 

He knows that sometimes, a listening ear, a warm hug, or a comforting word can be more valuable than all the riches in the world. Now, that’s what we call a truly generous heart.

13. He is disciplined

Discipline. It’s not the most glamorous quality, but boy is it important! A good man understands the value of discipline. He knows that it’s not just about setting goals, but also about following through. 

He’s committed to his commitments, he sticks to his routine, he makes hard choices. All because he understands that discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.

And let’s be clear here, discipline for a good man is not about punishment or deprivation. 

It’s about self-control, it’s about understanding what’s truly important, and making decisions that reflect those priorities. He knows that discipline is not the enemy of freedom, but its truest form.

14. He is open to feedback

Okay, let’s talk about feedback. We all know it’s not always easy to hear, but a good man… he welcomes it. 

He understands that feedback is not criticism, it’s an opportunity for growth. He listens, he learns, he improves. He’s open to feedback because he knows that the journey to becoming a better man is a never-ending one.

A good man doesn’t let ego stand in the way of learning. He’s open to feedback, not just from his superiors or peers, but also from those who may be younger or less experienced. 

Because he knows that wisdom can come from the unlikeliest of places, and every piece of feedback is a step towards becoming the best version of himself.

15. A good man stands up for what is right

“Stand for something or fall for anything.” A good man lives by this rule. He knows the importance of standing up for what’s right, even if he’s standing alone. 

He’s not swayed by popular opinion or peer pressure, he’s guided by his own moral compass.

And let me tell you, standing up for what’s right for a good man is not just about big, world-changing issues. It’s also about everyday choices, small acts of honesty, moments of integrity. 

He stands up against prejudice, against injustice, against unfairness, not just in the world, but in his own backyard. Because he knows that every stand taken, every voice raised, every act of courage, brings the world one step closer to becoming a better place.

16. He knows the importance of communication

Let’s face it, communication is key. A good man gets it. He knows the importance of expressing himself clearly, of listening attentively, of understanding fully. He knows that words have the power to build bridges or build walls, and he chooses his words wisely.

A good man doesn’t just talk, he communicates. He doesn’t just listen, he understands. He knows that good communication is not just about expressing his own thoughts and feelings, but also about understanding and respecting the thoughts and feelings of others. 

Because he knows that the key to any successful relationship, be it personal or professional, is effective communication.

[Read: 15 Signs of a Dominant Man] 

17. He is honest

Honesty, it’s the best policy, right? A good man couldn’t agree more. He understands the value of truthfulness. He’s honest in his words, his actions, his relationships. He doesn’t hide behind lies or deception, he faces the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

And here’s the thing: honesty for a good man is not just about telling the truth, it’s about living it. He doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. He’s authentic, he’s real, he’s genuine. He understands that honesty is not just about communicating the truth, it’s about embodying it.

18. A good man is responsible

Responsibility, it’s a big word with even bigger implications. A good man knows that. He takes responsibility for his actions, his choices, his mistakes. He doesn’t blame others, he doesn’t make excuses, he doesn’t shy away from accountability.

A good man takes responsibility not just for his own life, but also for the impact he has on the world around him. 

He knows that every decision made, every action taken, every word spoken, leaves a footprint. And he strives to make sure his footprint is one of positivity, respect, and integrity.

19. He is not afraid to express his feelings

Feelings, who’s got them? We all do! And a good man is not afraid to express them. He’s not bound by stereotypes or societal norms, he’s not scared of being seen as less of a man for showing his emotions. He laughs, he cries, he loves, he hurts, and he’s not afraid to let the world see it.

A good man knows that expressing feelings is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. It shows his authenticity, his humanity, his vulnerability. 

He understands that feelings are not to be hidden or suppressed, but to be felt, understood, and expressed. Because at the end of the day, he knows that feelings are what make us human.

20. He respects boundaries

Boundaries, we all have them. And a good man respects them. He understands that everyone has their own comfort zone, their own private space, their own set of limits. And he respects them. He doesn’t force his way in, he doesn’t overstep, he doesn’t intrude.

But it’s not just about respecting the boundaries of others. A good man also knows the importance of setting his own boundaries. He knows his limits, and he understands his needs and pays attention to those of others as well. 

21. A good man values education and learning

Education and learning, these are not just buzzwords for a good man. He knows that education is not just about degrees or diplomas, but about broadening horizons, about developing understanding, about fostering empathy. 

He values learning, not just from books or classrooms, but from life, from people, from experiences.

And it’s not just about academic education. A good man values all forms of learning. He appreciates the arts, he respects craftsmanship, he marvels at the beauty of nature. He knows that learning is a lifelong journey, a constant pursuit of knowledge and understanding. And he’s always up for the ride.

[Also read: The Top 10 Manliest Jobs In The World ]

22. He leads by example

Leading by example, that’s the name of the game for a good man. He doesn’t believe in do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do. He’s all about showing the way, setting the pace, leading the charge. He knows that actions speak louder than words, and his actions scream integrity, respect, kindness.

23. A good man is patient

Patience is a virtue, and a good man has got it in spades. He understands that good things take time, that progress is often slow, that patience is key to overcoming obstacles. 

He doesn’t rush, he doesn’t force, he doesn’t push. He waits, he perseveres, he endures.

And here’s the thing, patience for a good man is not just about waiting. It’s about maintaining a positive attitude while waiting. 

It’s about staying committed, staying focused, staying hopeful, even when things get tough. Because he knows that patience is not just the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting.

24. He keeps his promises

Promises, they’re not just words for a good man, they’re commitments. 

When he makes a promise, he means it. He doesn’t make promises lightly, and once made, he does everything in his power to keep them. He understands that a promise broken is trust broken, and trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild.

A good man knows that his word is his bond. He knows that promises are not just about words, they’re about actions, they’re about integrity, they’re about respect. 

He understands that a man is only as good as his word, and he strives to make his word count.

25. He practices gratitude

Gratitude, it’s not just an attitude for a good man, it’s a way of life. He appreciates the big things, he cherishes the small things, he values everything in between. He understands that life is a gift, and he’s grateful for every moment of it.

A good man doesn’t take things for granted. He knows that gratitude is not just about saying thank you, it’s about feeling it, it’s about showing it. He knows that gratitude is not just a feeling, it’s an action. And he’s always ready to show his appreciation, to express his gratitude, to celebrate his blessings.

[Read: 9 Signs a Man Lacks Ambition ]

26. A good man is not judgmental

We all have our flaws, our quirks, our idiosyncrasies. And a good man… he doesn’t judge. He understands that everyone is on their own journey, facing their own battles, learning their own lessons. He doesn’t belittle, he doesn’t ridicule, he doesn’t discriminate.

And it’s not just about not judging others. A good man also refrains from judging himself too harshly. He knows that self-criticism, when done constructively, can be a powerful tool for self-improvement. 

But when it becomes self-judgment, it can be a heavy burden. He knows the difference, and he chooses kindness, always.

27. He is committed to his relationships

Relationships, they’re not just connections for a good man, they’re commitments. 

Whether it’s his relationship with his partner, his family, his friends, or his colleagues, a good man is all in. He’s present, he’s engaged, he’s invested. 

He understands that relationships are not just about taking, they’re about giving, they’re about sharing, they’re about growing together.

A good man knows that commitment is not just about sticking around when things are good, but about standing strong when things are tough. He knows that relationships, like all good things in life, require effort, patience, and perseverance. And he’s more than willing to put in the work.

28. A good man is humble

Humility, it’s not just a virtue for a good man, it’s a hallmark. He doesn’t flaunt, he doesn’t brag, he doesn’t boast. He lets his actions speak for themselves. 

He knows that true greatness lies not in being superior to others, but in being superior to one’s previous self.

A good man understands that humility is not about downplaying his achievements, it’s about acknowledging the contributions of others. 

He knows that he didn’t get where he is on his own, and he’s always ready to share the credit, to express his gratitude, to celebrate his success with those who helped him achieve it.

29. He supports his loved ones

Support, it’s not just a word for a good man, it’s a pledge. He’s there for his loved ones, through thick and thin, through highs and lows, through joys and sorrows. \

He’s not just a shoulder to cry on, he’s a rock to lean on, a cheerleader to root for them, a confidante to trust.

A good man understands that support is not just about providing help, it’s about empowering. He doesn’t just solve problems for his loved ones, he helps them learn to solve problems for themselves. 

He doesn’t just give advice, he offers perspective. Because he knows that the best support is not just about giving, but about empowering.

[Read: 10 Signs You Are Handsome ]

30. He appreciates small joys

In a world full of hustle and bustle, a good man knows how to find joy in the small things. He savors the first sip of his morning coffee, he appreciates the beauty of a sunset, he cherishes a heartwarming conversation with a loved one. 

He understands that life is not just about grand achievements and big events, but about small moments and simple joys.

A good man knows that happiness is not just a destination, it’s a journey. He doesn’t just live for the big moments, he celebrates the small ones. He knows that it’s the small joys that make life big, that make life worth living. 

And he’s always on the lookout for those little moments of joy, those simple pleasures, those tiny treasures.

31. He encourages others

Ever seen someone enthusiastically cheer on a snail for winning a race against a fellow snail? Yeah, that’s our guy. He doesn’t just dish out encouragement like free candy at a parade, he celebrates victories—big and small. Why? Because he knows life can be tough, and a little encouragement goes a long way!

32. A good man has strong moral values

It’s like he has an internal compass that always points to “Do the right thing.” Sure, he might not be perfect, but he strives for ethical excellence like a puppy strives to catch its own tail. 

And just like the adorable confusion on a pup’s face, he understands that morality can sometimes be complex. But does that deter him? Nope, not one bit!

33. He is understanding

Now, he might not always know exactly what you’re going through, but he’ll try his darn best to understand. 

He’s like a dedicated detective, always willing to dig deeper, to listen harder, to empathize better. He’s not just a man, he’s an understanding man, and that makes all the difference.

[Related: How to be More Masculine in a Relationship ]

34. He loves unconditionally

I’d say a good man loves like a dog, but that wouldn’t be entirely accurate. Sure, he showers you with affection, loyalty, and yes, even sloppy kisses, but his unconditional love is uniquely human. 

He loves like the sun loves the earth—warm, bright, and unwavering, no matter what the season.

Now, this doesn’t mean he’ll let you get away with eating the last piece of chocolate cake without sharing. 

His love is unconditional, but his desire for chocolate is something else entirely! Jokes aside, a good man knows that love is not just about sharing joy, it’s about standing together in times of difficulty, supporting each other through life’s challenges. And he’s there, loving, caring, and sharing (well, except maybe for the chocolate cake).

35. A good man is reliable

Ever seen one of those movies where the hero always shows up at just the right moment to save the day? 

That’s a good man in real life (minus the flashy superhero costume, unfortunately). He’s Mr. Reliable, the guy you can always count on, come rain or shine.

But his reliability isn’t just limited to grand gestures. It’s also about the small things. Like being there to kill a spider at 3 am or showing up at your doorstep with a bowl of soup when you’re sick. 

He’s dependable, he’s trustworthy, and if he had a superhero name, it would probably be “Captain Reliable.”

36. He is respectful towards women

You know how in old movies gentlemen would tip their hats to ladies and hold doors open? 

Well, a good man brings that respect into the 21st century! He understands that respect isn’t about outdated rituals, but about treating women as equals, as partners, as individuals with their own thoughts, feelings, and ambitions.

Sure, he’ll still hold the door open for you, but he’ll also support your career, respect your decisions, and celebrate your achievements. 

He’s not just respectful, he’s respect-full—full of respect for women, and for everyone else he interacts with.

37. He is a good listener

He’s not just a listener, he’s an active listener. He asks questions, he provides feedback, he engages in the conversation. 

With him, every chat feels like a TED Talk, every conversation feels like a podcast episode, every dialogue feels like a meaningful connection.

(Interesting: 7 Male Personality Types (Which One Are You?)

38. A good man can compromise

Life with a good man is not a battleground, it’s a dance floor. He understands that it’s not about winning or losing, it’s about finding a rhythm, maintaining balance, and moving in sync. 

When disagreements arise (as they do in any relationship), he doesn’t resort to a stubborn standoff. He stretches out his hand, invites you to the dance, and moves towards a compromise.

Don’t get me wrong, he’s got his principles and stands by them. But he also understands that rigidity can break a relationship, while flexibility can strengthen it. 

With him, every conflict is a chance to understand each other better, to compromise, and to do a little dance.

39. He takes care of his environment

You know those superheroes who save the world from catastrophic disasters? Well, a good man does that too, just in a less flashy, more sustainable way. 

He understands that being a guardian of the environment isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about everyday actions.

So, you’ll find him sorting his recyclables, reducing water usage, planting trees, and maybe even riding a bicycle to work. 

His superpower? Consistency. His mission? To make the world a better place, one small action at a time. After all, he knows that Earth is not just a planet, it’s our home.

40. He stands up for the weak

Imagine a knight in shining armor, riding a white horse, ready to defend the defenseless. 

Now replace the armor with a suit, the horse with a bike, and the medieval setting with the 21st century. Voila! You have a good man who stands up for the weak. He’s not just a defender, he’s a champion of justice, a protector of the vulnerable, a voice for the voiceless.

And here’s the best part—he doesn’t do it for applause or recognition. He does it because it’s the right thing to do. Because he believes in fairness, in justice, in equality. And he’s willing to stand up, speak up, and act up for it.

41. A good man is fair in his dealings

When it comes to a good man, he’s as fair as they come. 

Whether it’s taking turns deciding which movie to watch or figuring out who owes what on the dinner bill, he ensures everyone gets their fair shake. A sense of justice runs through his veins, not just in big life decisions but in the little things, too.

He’ll be the one making sure everyone has an equal chance to speak in a group discussion. In a business deal, he’ll guarantee that terms are beneficial for all parties. 

The very idea of taking advantage of someone doesn’t fit his code. He seeks balance, equality, and equity in everything he does.

[Read: The Most Interesting People I Know All Have These 9 Traits Common ]

42. He is proactive

The beauty of a good man is his ability to stay ahead of the game. He doesn’t just sit back and wait for things to happen; he’s out there making them happen. 

His proactivity shines in his career, his relationships, and even in his downtime. He’s all about creating the life he wants, rather than waiting for it to come to him.

He’s a go-getter, a mover, a shaker. He foresees problems before they become a major hassle, steps up to take charge when things are going south, and jumps at opportunities when he sees them. His proactive nature means he’s rarely caught off guard, and his life is much smoother for it.

43. He is gentle

Don’t let the strong exterior fool you, a good man possesses a gentleness that’s heartwarming. He knows when to use his strength and when to employ his softer side. 

You’ll find him helping a child tie their shoelaces or carefully nursing a wounded bird back to health.

Emotionally, he’s there to provide a soft landing for the people he cares about. His words are always kind, his actions tender. He carries a quiet strength, the kind that assures you he’s there to protect and support, not intimidate or overpower.

44. A good man has self-control

Mastering the art of self-control, a good man knows how to keep his emotions and actions in check. 

He’s not swayed by every fleeting feeling or immediate gratification. He takes the time to consider his actions, choosing what’s right over what’s easy.

Whether it’s resisting the urge to snap back in an argument or choosing a salad over a burger for lunch, his life is marked by disciplined choices. 

This self-control applies to his career, his personal life, and his habits. Because he knows that true freedom comes not from doing what you want, but from doing what you should.

45. He is a peacemaker

A good man is the person who’s there to diffuse tension and foster peace. He can’t stand to see people in discord and steps in to mediate when needed. 

He understands that peace doesn’t just mean avoiding conflict, but resolving it in a way that respects everyone involved.

His peaceful approach applies to every aspect of his life—from his personal relationships to his professional ones. 

He’ll be the first to apologize after an argument, even if he wasn’t in the wrong, because maintaining harmony is more important to him than being right. He doesn’t just wish for peace; he actively works for it.

[Related: 10 Qualities That Make You A Good Person ]

46. A good man is not judgmental

Nobody’s perfect, and a good man understands this better than anyone. He doesn’t judge others for their flaws or mistakes. Instead, he accepts people as they are. He sees beyond the surface, appreciating the complex mix of good and bad that makes us all human.

He’s the type of person who makes you feel comfortable being yourself, warts and all. He listens without interrupting, understands without assuming, and supports without judging. His open-mindedness and accepting nature make him a safe haven for everyone around him.

47. He is committed to his relationships

When a good man commits, he really commits. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, a friendship, or a family bond, he’s in it for the long haul. He’s not there just for the good times, he’s there through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, in joy and sorrow.

His commitment means he’s there when you need him, he’s there when you don’t, and he’s there even when you think you don’t. He puts effort into maintaining and strengthening his relationships, valuing the bond he shares with his loved ones more than anything else.

48. A good man is humble

Humility is a virtue that shines bright in a good man. He doesn’t brag about his achievements or show off his possessions. Instead, he lets his actions speak for him. 

He knows that true value lies in character, not in accolades or material wealth.

He’s the kind of guy who treats the janitor with the same respect as the CEO. He acknowledges his mistakes, appreciates his blessings, and values others for who they are, not what they have. 

He carries himself with a quiet confidence, and his humility makes him all the more admirable.

49. He supports his loved ones

Whether it’s cheering on his partner at a local 5K, helping his kids with their homework, or encouraging his friend’s crazy business idea, he’s there to give his unwavering support.

His support is not just limited to words, but shows through his actions. He might lend a helping hand, provide a shoulder to lean on, or simply be there to listen when someone needs to talk. 

He understands that support means standing by someone, not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard.

50. He appreciates small joys

One of the loveliest things about a good man is his ability to find joy in the simplest things. He’s not waiting for big celebrations or grand gestures to be happy. Instead, he takes pleasure in the everyday—a good cup of coffee, a shared laugh, a beautiful sunset.

He cherishes these small moments, turning ordinary days into memorable ones. His appreciation for life’s simple joys is infectious, inspiring those around him to stop and smell the roses, too. For him, happiness isn’t a destination, it’s a way of life.

51. He knows the importance of family

Family is sacred to a good man. He values his relationships with his family members and doesn’t take them for granted. 

You’ll find him spending quality time with them, actively participating in family events, and showing up for them in times of need. He is aware of his role in the family and performs his responsibilities with dedication.

Even in his busy schedule, he makes time for family. He understands that moments spent with family are priceless. 

This love for family doesn’t just apply to his immediate family, but also to the family he chooses—his close friends, his mentors, and the loved ones who’ve become family with time.

52. A good man has a positive attitude

A good man knows that life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but he doesn’t let that bring him down. He maintains a positive attitude even in challenging situations. 

He understands that his mindset can significantly impact his life, so he chooses to focus on the bright side.

This isn’t about being blindly optimistic, but about choosing positivity over negativity. 

He’s the type of person who sees the glass half full, who finds silver linings in clouds, and who believes in making the best out of any situation. His positive attitude is infectious, spreading light and positivity to those around him.

53. He is not afraid to say “I’m sorry.”

Apologizing when you’re wrong is a sign of maturity and honesty, and a good man has no qualms about saying “I’m sorry.” 

He understands that everyone makes mistakes and that apologizing is a necessary step towards making amends. He doesn’t let pride stand in the way of an apology.

When he’s wrong, he admits it without hesitation. He uses his mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. He values his relationships more than his ego, so he’s not afraid to swallow his pride, admit his errors, and say the all-important phrase, “I’m sorry.”

[Also read: 12 Signs of a Weak Man ]

54. He has a strong work ethic

A good man isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty. He believes in hard work and isn’t looking for shortcuts. 

He takes his professional commitments seriously and gives his best at work. He understands that success comes from persistence and dedication, and he’s willing to put in the effort.

He’s not just working for a paycheck; he’s working to make a difference, to learn, to grow, and to contribute to his field. He respects his colleagues, he values his job, and he cherishes the satisfaction of a job well done. 

His strong work ethic is evident in the quality of his work, the respect he earns from his peers, and his progress in his career.

55. A good man is self-confident

Self-confidence is a trait that a good man wears well. He believes in his abilities, values his worth, and doesn’t rely on others’ approval for validation. His confidence isn’t about arrogance or superiority; it’s about knowing who he is and being comfortable in his skin.

This self-confidence reflects in the way he carries himself, the way he treats others, and the way he handles challenges. 

He isn’t immune to self-doubt or fear, but he knows how to overcome these feelings with his inner confidence. His self-assured nature encourages others to trust in their abilities and boost their confidence.

56. He values personal growth

A good man understands that life is a journey of learning and growth. He doesn’t settle for stagnation; he constantly seeks opportunities for personal development. He values education, reads books, takes courses, and learns from his experiences.

Personal growth for him isn’t just about gaining knowledge or skills; it’s about becoming a better version of himself. It’s about improving his character, his relationships, his perspective on life. He doesn’t fear change; he embraces it, knowing that it’s a vital part of growth.

57. He is attentive to the needs of others

A good man is in tune with the needs of the people around him. He notices when someone is upset, even when they don’t say it. He listens to understand, not just to respond. He is aware of the emotions, desires, and needs of his loved ones, and he does his best to meet them.

Being attentive doesn’t mean he caters to every whim or demand, but he recognizes genuine needs when he sees them. He offers help before being asked, he provides comfort during tough times, he shares joys in happy moments. His attentiveness makes people feel seen, heard, and valued.

58. A good man is consistent in his actions

Consistency is a defining trait of a good man. He doesn’t sway with every passing trend or opinion; he sticks to his principles and stays true to his word. His actions match his words, and his behavior doesn’t change based on his company or circumstances.

People can count on him because he’s reliable. He doesn’t make promises he can’t keep, and he doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. His consistent actions build trust, earn respect, and affirm his character.

59. He can forgive and move on

Holding grudges isn’t in a good man’s nature. He understands that everyone makes mistakes, and he’s willing to forgive. 

He doesn’t hold onto resentment or let past hurts poison his present. He knows how to let go, forgive, and move forward.

This doesn’t mean he lets people walk all over him. He stands up for himself when necessary, but he also knows when to extend grace. He doesn’t let bitterness cloud his judgment or impede his growth. He chooses forgiveness because he understands that it’s the path to peace and emotional freedom.

60. He has an open mind

A good man isn’t confined to his perspectives or beliefs; he’s open to learning, understanding, and accepting new ideas. He listens to others’ opinions, respects differing viewpoints, and is willing to change his mind when presented with compelling arguments.

An open mind for him means being curious, inquisitive, and unbiased. He doesn’t judge ideas based on preconceived notions or prejudices. Instead, he evaluates them on their merits and values the diversity of thought. 

His open-mindedness encourages healthy discussions, broadens his horizons, and enriches his understanding of the world.

61. A good man is respectful towards his elders

Respect for elders is ingrained in a good man’s character. He values the wisdom and experiences that come with age and treats his elders with kindness and consideration. His interactions with them are infused with patience, understanding, and reverence.

But respect for him doesn’t mean blind obedience. He can hold his ground and express his opinions while maintaining respect. His demeanor towards his elders serves as an example for younger generations, promoting a culture of respect and appreciation for the wisdom of age.

62. He is a good role model

A good man doesn’t just lead by words, he leads by example. His actions reflect his values, and he serves as a role model for others, inspiring them to strive for better. His life isn’t about impressing others but living in a way that positively impacts those around him.

Being a role model doesn’t mean he’s perfect. He has flaws and makes mistakes, like everyone else. But what sets him apart is his ability to learn from those mistakes and his transparency about his journey. His life is an open book that encourages others to pursue integrity, kindness, and growth.

63. He believes in equality

A good man is a champion of equality. He respects and values all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or social status. He treats everyone with fairness and does not believe in superiority or inferiority.

Equality for him is not a trend, but a principle that guides his actions and decisions. He stands against discrimination, advocates for equal rights, and promotes inclusivity. His belief in equality reflects his respect for humanity and his commitment to a fairer world.

64. A good man is not afraid of commitment

Commitment isn’t a scary word for a good man. Whether it’s a relationship, a job, or a personal goal, he’s not afraid to commit and stick with it. He understands the value of dedication and the effort required to maintain a commitment.

His commitment isn’t about stubbornly sticking to something regardless of the circumstances. It’s about staying dedicated even when things get tough, keeping his word, and working towards his commitments with sincerity. He is reliable and trustworthy, and people can count on him to follow through.

65. He is not envious of others

Envy has no place in a good man’s heart. He doesn’t compare his journey with others or feel envious of their success. He understands that everyone has a unique path, and he focuses on his own growth and happiness.

This doesn’t mean he doesn’t acknowledge others’ achievements. He is genuinely happy for them and often uses their success as motivation to strive for his own goals. He believes in the abundance of the universe and knows that everyone can succeed without taking away from others.

66. He is adaptable

A good man is like water, adaptable and flexible. He isn’t rigid in his ways or resistant to change. He understands that adaptability is key to surviving and thriving in a world that’s constantly changing.

His adaptability doesn’t mean he’s easily swayed or doesn’t have firm beliefs. It means he can adjust his strategies and actions according to the situation while staying true to his values. He knows how to navigate change and turns challenges into opportunities for growth.

67. A good man is diplomatic

Diplomacy is a trait of a good man. He knows how to handle disagreements or conflicts in a way that respects all parties involved. He communicates his opinions clearly, listens to others, and seeks solutions that are fair and beneficial for everyone.

His diplomatic approach is not about people-pleasing or avoiding conflict. It’s about respecting differences, fostering open communication, and building harmony. He doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations but approaches them with tact and understanding.

68. He doesn’t hold grudges

A good man understands that holding grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get hurt. He chooses to let go of resentment and negativity, freeing his heart for love, peace, and joy.

Forgiving and letting go doesn’t mean he forgets or allows the same mistakes to happen again. It means he learns from the past, sets appropriate boundaries, and moves forward without carrying the weight of resentment.

69. He maintains a balanced life

A good man doesn’t believe in extremes. He understands the importance of balance in life, whether it’s work and leisure, solitude and socializing, giving and receiving. He manages his time effectively, ensuring that no aspect of his life is neglected.

He knows that a balanced life is key to overall well being. It’s not about being perfect in every aspect but about making time for things that matter, taking care of his physical and mental health, and living a fulfilling life.

70. A good man is sincere

Sincerity is a hallmark of a good man. His words and actions are genuine, and he doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. He is honest in his dealings, sincere in his relationships, and authentic in his interactions.

He doesn’t say things just to please others or hide behind a facade. He is true to his feelings, his values, and his character. His sincerity makes him trustworthy and respected. His genuineness makes people feel safe and valued around him.

71. He appreciates beauty in all its forms

There is an artistry to a good man’s perspective on the world. He has a natural inclination to appreciate beauty, not only in the aesthetic sense but in all its diverse forms. 

He can find beauty in a sunset, a well-crafted sentence, a kind act, or the strength in someone overcoming adversity.

He doesn’t restrict beauty to physical attractiveness. He appreciates the beauty of character, of courage, of compassion. This wide lens of appreciation brings a richness to his interactions with the world, making him more receptive to life’s various joys and inspirations.

72. He is optimistic

A good man wears optimism like a suit of armor. It shields him from the slings and arrows of life’s challenges, allowing him to forge forward with hope and determination. 

His optimism isn’t just wishful thinking, but a strong belief in possibilities and in the potential for good outcomes.

That’s not to say he’s unrealistically cheerful all the time. He understands that life has its ups and downs. But his optimism is a guiding light, illuminating the path forward and turning obstacles into stepping stones toward success.

73. A good man keeps his word

When a good man gives you his word, you can take it to the bank. His promises aren’t made lightly, and once given, he does everything within his power to honor them. 

He understands that trust is built on the foundation of kept promises, and he values that trust above all else.

Keeping his word isn’t about being inflexible or unyielding. If circumstances change, he communicates openly and renegotiates his commitments. 

His commitment to his word reflects his commitment to his relationships, reinforcing his reputation as a dependable ally and a trustworthy friend.

74. He respects all cultures

A good man is a true citizen of the world. He respects and values the richness of global cultures, acknowledging the unique perspectives and contributions each culture brings to the world’s tapestry. 

His appreciation for diverse cultures stems from a deep-seated belief in the inherent worth of all people and their traditions.

His respect for all cultures isn’t just theoretical. He actively seeks to learn about different cultures, expanding his understanding and challenging his biases. 

He celebrates cultural diversity, not just tolerates it, making him a bridge builder in an increasingly interconnected world.

75. He appreciates hard work in others

A good man recognizes and appreciates the sweat and toil that others put into their work. He sees the value in effort, in tenacity, in the will to keep going when the going gets tough. 

When he sees hard work, he acknowledges it and respects the individual for their commitment.

His appreciation for hard work isn’t restricted to big achievements. He values the effort put into small tasks, the everyday grind, the invisible work often overlooked. 

By acknowledging hard work in others, he fosters an environment of respect, appreciation, and motivation.

76. A good man is spiritually grounded

Being spiritually grounded is a hallmark of a good man. This doesn’t necessarily mean religious, although it could. It means he has a deep understanding of his place in the universe, a connection to something greater than himself, and a set of values that guide his actions and decisions.

His spiritual grounding gives him a sense of purpose, of peace, of connectedness. It helps him navigate the storms of life with grace and resilience. It provides him with an inner compass, guiding him towards actions that reflect love, compassion, and justice.

77. He has a purpose in life

A good man isn’t just drifting through life. He has a clear purpose that drives him, fuels his passion, and gives meaning to his days. 

His purpose isn’t necessarily grand or glamorous. It could be as simple as being a good parent, contributing to his community, or excelling in his career.

His purpose is a guiding star, providing direction and focus. It motivates him to overcome obstacles, learn new skills, and make sacrifices. His purpose-infused life brings a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that transcends temporary pleasures or material success.

78. He doesn’t stereotype people

A good man doesn’t put people in boxes based on their race, religion, gender, or any other characteristic. 

He acknowledges the complexity of human beings and understands that everyone is unique, with their own set of experiences, values, and abilities.

He sees people as individuals, not as representatives of their group. He refrains from making sweeping generalizations or assumptions based on stereotypes. 

His ability to see beyond labels and prejudices makes him a fair judge of character and an ally in the fight against discrimination.

79. A good man is aware of his emotions

A good man doesn’t shy away from his emotions. He acknowledges them, understands them, and knows how to manage them effectively. 

He doesn’t see emotions as a sign of weakness but as an integral part of his human experience.

His emotional awareness helps him communicate effectively, build stronger relationships, and navigate life’s ups and downs with grace. 

It equips him with the tools to manage stress, overcome challenges, and make balanced decisions. His emotional intelligence is a strength, not a liability.

80. He knows how to manage stress

A good man knows that stress is a part of life, but he also knows how to manage it effectively. He doesn’t let stress overpower him or dictate his actions. Instead, he has strategies in place to manage stress, whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or simply taking time out to relax.

He understands that long-term stress can take a toll on his health and happiness. So, he prioritizes self-care and ensures he has a healthy work-life balance. His ability to manage stress not only benefits him but also sets a positive example for those around him.

81. He values mutual respect in relationships

A good man values and fosters mutual respect in all his relationships. He understands that respect is the bedrock of healthy relationships, whether it’s with his partner, colleagues, friends, or family. He communicates with respect, listens with respect, and acts with respect.

Mutual respect, for him, means acknowledging the other person’s rights, feelings, thoughts, and needs. It means treating them with kindness, even during disagreements. His commitment to mutual respect makes his relationships stronger, healthier, and more harmonious.

82. A good man cherishes his partner

A good man doesn’t just love his partner; he cherishes them. He appreciates their uniqueness, respects their individuality, and supports their dreams. His love is not possessive or controlling, but freeing and uplifting.

He communicates openly with his partner, expressing his feelings, listening to theirs, and resolving issues together. He understands that every relationship requires effort and commitment, and he’s willing to put in the work. His love isn’t just about romantic gestures but about everyday acts of kindness, respect, and support.

83. He takes time to help others

A good man finds joy in helping others. He doesn’t see it as an obligation or a burden, but as a natural expression of his compassion. He helps others not for recognition or rewards, but because he genuinely cares.

His willingness to help isn’t restricted to grand gestures. It could be as simple as lending a listening ear, offering words of encouragement, or helping a neighbor with their groceries. His acts of service, big or small, make a positive impact on people’s lives and strengthen his connections with others.

84. He is not boastful

A good man lets his actions speak for themselves. He doesn’t feel the need to boast about his achievements or capabilities. He is confident in his worth and doesn’t seek validation through bragging.

His humility doesn’t mean he’s unaware of his strengths or achievements. He acknowledges them, but he doesn’t use them to belittle others or inflate his ego. His modest approach earns him respect and admiration from those around him, making him a true gentleman.

85. A good man is grateful

A good man cultivates a spirit of gratitude. He doesn’t take his blessings for granted, be it his health, his relationships, or the beauty of nature. He sees the value in every moment, every interaction, every experience, and expresses his gratitude freely.

His gratitude isn’t just about saying thank you. It’s a mindset that focuses on the positives, appreciates the simple pleasures, and acknowledges the contributions of others. 

His attitude of gratitude brings positivity to his life, enhancing his happiness, strengthening his relationships, and increasing his resilience.

86. He doesn’t abuse power or authority

Some say, “Power corrupts,” but a good man would retort, “Only if you let it!” You won’t find him using his authority as a stick to beat others. Instead, he wields it like a wand to create positive change and promote fairness. That’s his real “power move.”

He believes in empowering others, not overpowering them. And, hey, if he’s the one making the coffee run at work, he’ll take your order with a smile, even if he’s the boss. No room for ego here!

87. Respect for the environment? Green at heart!

A good man doesn’t just enjoy nature’s beauty; he wants to protect it. Environmental respect isn’t just an abstract concept for him; it’s a lifestyle. He recycles, reduces waste, saves water, and may even have a few homemade compost tips up his sleeve.

Got a love for Mother Earth? Well, he does too! Be it planting a tree or picking up litter during a morning jog, a good man’s care for the environment is as fresh as a daisy!

88. A good man appreciates simplicity

A good man understands the beauty of simplicity. It’s like that classic t-shirt that feels like a second skin or a home-cooked meal that warms the soul. He cherishes simple joys and small moments, understanding that they are the threads that weave the tapestry of life.

He isn’t caught up in the whirlwind of constant consumerism or the quest for the next big thing. He prefers experiences over things, people over possessions, and quality over quantity. Now, isn’t that simply wonderful?

89. He is not defined by his possessions

Does a good man like his stuff? Sure. Is he defined by it? Not a chance. He knows that what makes him a man isn’t what he owns, but who he is – his values, actions, and character.

Don’t get it wrong; he might have a thing for classic vinyl or old books. But he’s not keeping score with material possessions. It’s his heart that counts, not his stuff.

90. He encourages others to reach their potential

A good man is like a human pep rally. He’ll cheer you on as you strive to reach your potential. He knows how to give that gentle nudge when you’re doubting yourself, and he’s always ready with a high-five or words of praise.

He doesn’t hoard success; he wants to see you shine too. He’s that voice whispering, “You’ve got this!” when the world feels like it’s saying, “you can’t.”

91. A good man knows the value of compromise

A good man knows that compromise isn’t about losing, but about finding a middle ground where everyone wins. He’s not that “my way or the highway” type of guy. He’s open to different perspectives and willing to meet halfway.

He understands that it’s not about who’s right, but what’s right. Compromising doesn’t mean he’s weak; it shows he values relationships more than being right. After all, bridges are built in the middle, not on the edges.

92. He is not easily swayed by public opinion

Public opinion is a sea that’s constantly in flux, but a good man is not a leaf to be blown about by the wind. He forms his opinions and sticks to his guns, even when faced with a tide of contrary beliefs.

It doesn’t mean he’s rigid or unwilling to change. He’ll listen, consider, and if warranted, adapt. But he’s not a popularity chaser. He’s more of a truth seeker, even if the truth isn’t the most popular kid on the block.

93. Health conscious? Absolutely!

A good man doesn’t just value physical health; he practices it. Regular workouts, balanced meals, enough sleep – he’s got it all on his schedule. He knows that his body is his vehicle in this journey of life, and he’s committed to keeping it in top shape.

He’s not training for the Olympics or chasing after a superhero physique (unless he wants to). He just wants to be healthy and energetic enough to enjoy life and be there for the people he cares about. Now, who’s ready for some morning yoga?

94. He maintains healthy friendships

Friendship isn’t a numbers game for a good man; it’s about connection, camaraderie, and mutual respect. His friends aren’t just people he hangs out with; they’re his second family, his support system.

A good man knows that quality friendships nourish the soul, offer support during tough times, and make the good times even better. He invests time and energy in his friendships, and he’s always there when his friends need him. After all, what’s life without a few good friends to share it with?

95. He respects his own limitations

We all have our limits, and a good man isn’t afraid to acknowledge his. He doesn’t see them as weaknesses, but as areas to grow. He knows that being Superman is overrated and being human is perfectly fine.

He doesn’t push himself beyond his emotional or physical capacity, just to fit into some societal mold. Instead, he respects and accepts his limitations, and isn’t too proud to ask for help when he needs it. Because at the end of the day, we all have our kryptonite, don’t we?

96. Supports gender equality? Absolutely!

A good man doesn’t see gender as a seesaw where one must be up and the other down. No, he’s all about balance and equality. He champions women’s rights and isn’t threatened by strong, independent women; instead, he respects and admires them.

Men doing housework or women leading board meetings – none of these scenarios intimidate him. 

He believes in a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, can enjoy the same rights and opportunities. A world where we don’t stereotype but appreciate each other for the individuals we are.

97. He is not afraid to stand alone if necessary

Peer pressure? Not in a good man’s dictionary! Even if it feels like the whole world is going left, he won’t hesitate to go right if that’s where his values lead him. He isn’t afraid to be the lone voice in a crowd if that voice speaks for what’s right.

Being alone doesn’t make him uncomfortable or insecure. He’s comfortable in his own skin, confident in his beliefs, and unafraid to walk his own path. After all, great paths often start with a single step away from the crowd.

98. A good man believes in kindness

Kindness is a good man’s superpower. He knows that a kind word, a helping hand, or a warm smile can make a world of difference. He practices kindness not because he expects something in return, but because he understands its inherent value.

He doesn’t measure kindness in grand gestures. For him, it’s about the little acts of love and care that enrich our daily lives. 

Holding the door for a stranger, listening without interrupting, offering a compliment – every day, he finds new ways to sprinkle a little kindness around.

99. Making fun of others’ weaknesses? Never!

A good man understands that we all have our strengths and weaknesses, and he respects that. He doesn’t use others’ weaknesses as a laughing matter or a tool for humiliation. 

He won’t laugh at you for your fear of spiders or your inability to tell a joke without messing up the punchline.

Instead, he appreciates you for who you are, quirks and all. He knows that our weaknesses make us human, and being human is a beautiful thing. So you can be your perfectly imperfect self around him, no judgments, no ridicule.

100. A good man is loyal to his principles

When it comes to principles, a good man stands firm. He’s not one to sell out or compromise his values for temporary gain. He’s like that old tree that stands tall, unwavering in the face of storms and winds.

His principles are his compass, guiding his actions and decisions. Whether it’s in the face of temptation or under pressure, he remains true to what he believes in. He’s not just a man of words; he’s a man of principles, a man of substance. Now, that’s a good man for you!

Do you need to have these 100 qualities of a good man to be considered one?

Not necessarily! This list of qualities isn’t a checklist that one must tick off to be labeled a ‘good man.’ 

Instead, consider it as a compass guiding towards becoming a better version of oneself.

No one is perfect, and it’s human to have flaws and make mistakes. The idea here isn’t to attain perfection but to foster growth, learning, and improvement. 

As long as one strives to embody these qualities and consistently works on them, that’s what really matters.

Is it possible to acquire these 100 qualities or are they innate?

While some of these qualities may come naturally to some people, many of them can definitely be learned and cultivated over time. It’s all about awareness, practice, and persistence.

If you find a quality that you feel you’re lacking, don’t fret. Acknowledge it, work on it, and you’ll see yourself growing over time. 

Remember, personal growth is a journey, not a race. You’re allowed to take your time, learn at your own pace, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Can a woman have these 100 qualities, or are they exclusive to men?

Absolutely, a woman can and should have these qualities as well! While the focus of this article has been on what makes a ‘good man,’ these qualities are not gender-exclusive. They apply to all humans, regardless of gender.

Characteristics such as respect, kindness, integrity, empathy, and many others on the list, are universal attributes that everyone can strive to cultivate. A world where everyone embodies these qualities would be a happier, more compassionate, and better place, wouldn’t it?

All photos from freepik.com

15 Qualities That Are At The Core Of Every ‘Good’ Person

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What makes a person “good” in the grand scheme of things?

There are some traits considered to be good by just about everyone. There are also cultural variables as to what symbolizes and expresses goodness in a person. 

Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to determine what they feel are the qualities of a “good person.”

When we’re asked to explain why some of our heroes are (or were) sincerely good people, many of these traits will make the list.

1. Prudence

A good person is a prudent person. Prudence is the ability to determine whether or not a particular action is a good (or appropriate) idea at that specific point in time. It’s considered to be one of the four cardinal virtues, derived originally from Plato’s Republic .

Prudence also refers to a situation in which you have the strength to do something, but choose not to. Or, when you could do something that’s self-indulgent in the moment, but choose to err on the side of better judgment for later.

An example of this would be refraining from spending money on games and junk food because you need to save enough to cover your portion of the rent and bills. You may spend a bit on a small indulgence, but choose responsibility over temporary amusement or gratification.

2. Temperance

Although most people interpret temperance as being abstinence from something, what it actually means is moderation. 

Having temperance means finding the middle path, and balancing the self in the face of any situation. It encompasses self-discipline and self-awareness. After all, you have to know your own abilities as well as your own limits in order to find the moderate zone between them. 

For example, embodying a sense of diplomacy as a moderator means finding that magical middle ground between expressing what you need to say, with the needs and views of others around you.

In other people, temperance might mean accepting a small drink when toasting with others, but refraining from drinking to inebriation. Or thoroughly enjoying a slice of cake without overindulging.

When you are balanced and measured in your approaches to everything, you can experience and understand all without being overwhelmed by it.

Good people often show courage. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but rather the ability to take action even though you feel afraid. It is knowing that there is a difficult, potentially dangerous task ahead of you, but doing it because you know it needs to be done.

This one goes along with several of the other qualities listed here. For example, it often takes courage to act with integrity.

Courage can take many forms, from trying a new, challenging exercise to standing up to an intimidating person, or facing something that scares you.

The first level of courage is doing something even though it terrifies you.

The last level is being a calm, inspirational force to others, while feeling the same fear that they’re experiencing. 

For example, a high-ranking officer in a WWI trench was a bastion of calm and confidence, while the troops around him were quaking with fear. A young Private asked him how he was so calm, and the officer replied that he had to be in order to keep morale up. Additionally, he knew that the soldiers on the other side were also afraid, and that was oddly reassuring to him.

4. Compassion

Being compassionate isn’t just about understanding someone else’s pain. It’s also the desire to help alleviate it. One can look at a person and see that they’re suffering (sympathy) and then walk on by. But when we want to do what we can to help, then that’s compassion in action.

Ultimately, the basic element of compassion is kindness. We want to give of our own abilities to help another being who may be suffering. We can have compassion for people, animals, trees, rivers… anything that seems to be in distress that we can help to lessen.

The greatest mastery of compassion is when the one you’re trying to help is hurting you, and yet you’re still offering them assistance in a loving, gentle way. An adult may rail against you, or the hurt animal may bite you, but you still try to help.

Compassion means that you understand another’s pain without compounding it, offering what the other needs, and giving of yourself, regardless of the outcome.

5. Generosity

Generosity is a quality often associated with a good person. When we have a surplus of something, it’s important to share with others who have less. Even if we don’t have a surplus, it’s important to share with others. 

We always have something that we can share or give to those around us. This doesn’t have to be monetary wealth or physical objects, either. People who don’t have a lot of money can still be immensely generous with their time, for example. They can volunteer with the elderly or doing charity work. Or they can teach their skills to others who would like to learn from them. 

Being generous means that you’re giving with the heart, without any schemes to receive anything in return, or control those you are being generous with. These are gifts freely given, not because you think you’ll benefit in turn.

Quite often, those who have the least are the most generous toward others, because they know what it’s like to have nothing. They have the biggest hearts, and tend to be the most willing to help others in need.

6. Patience

This is one of the qualities that many admire, but it is also one of the most difficult to put into practice. It’s possible that this is because few of use are actually patient by nature. 

We tend to want things on our terms, on our own time. As a result, we get frustrated and annoyed when things don’t play out the way we think they should.

This is why it’s important to remember that the world doesn’t revolve around our wants and our schedule. There are billions of other players on this chess board, all engaged in an intricate dance. As such, we need to acknowledge and respect that we are all cogs in the machine, and our time to turn will come when it’s meant to.

Furthermore, it’s important to be aware that a lack of patience can cause a great deal of harm. People can only do their best, and when we’re impatient with those who aren’t as capable as we are, we can make them feel truly horrible about themselves. Or worse, they may end up traumatized and damaged. 

This is why it’s important to be patient with the grandmother or the child when crossing the road in a hurry, because they can’t keep up with you. If you’re not, and you walk away quickly instead of helping, they may end up getting hurt. 

Patience means that you can remain calm and measured in your responses, even when irritated. To not throw a tantrum when forced to wait. And to not complain unduly when things are taking longer than expected.

7. Respect 

Respect is undoubtedly a characteristic of a good person. When we talk about respect, we’re encompassing various aspects thereof. This includes respect for other people, self-respect, respect for life, for nature, etc.

Tolerance, esteem, appreciation, and recognition are just a few aspects of respect that can come into play.

For example, we can respect nature by not throwing garbage around or polluting water supplies. We can respect housemates by acknowledging the fact that they live their lives differently than we do, so we don’t project our behavioral expectations onto them.

We can respect our bodies by eating well and getting plenty of exercise, and show self-respect by not engaging in activities that would make us feel shame later. 

We acknowledge boundaries – our own and other people’s – and don’t overstep them for the sake of self-indulgence. We acknowledge that every individual is perfect, sovereign, and sacred. As such, we don’t put others down or mistreat them. Instead, we pay attention when they speak, honor their words, heed their personal choices.

It doesn’t take much effort to help others feel seen and heard, but it makes a world of difference to them when we do so.

8. Tolerance

Tolerance means accepting that others may think, behave, or live differently than we are, without trying to change their ways to suit our own preferences.

In simplest terms: live and let live.

Seek to understand your contemporaries in other cultures, races, religions, and creeds, rather than attacking them for their differences from you.

This is the difference between people who talk about how tolerant they are, but want to lead the next witch hunt.

In the 1600s it was witches. In the 1800s it was Amerindians. In the 1930s it was Jews. It is what it is today, and in 200 years, there will be another target group for people’s ire. 

Don’t jump on that bandwagon. We’re all better than that.

9. Integrity

A good person will act with integrity. Integrity means doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching. It’s holding to your individual moral and ethical convictions despite other people’s opinions and influences. Especially when it’s difficult to do so.

For example, let’s say that you’re working on a construction site and you find a precious artifact. You’re only making minimum wage at this gig, and this is a centuries-old gold ring buried in the mud. Nobody saw it except you. If you sold it, you’d likely make a ton of money. But you also recognize that it has historical significance.

Your sense of integrity would have you report the ring to the local coroner or Finds liaison officer so they can investigate it. Sure, you might get a reward for it – likely less than you’d have made for pawning it – but you know it’s the right thing to do. You didn’t have to, but you did it anyway.

10. Commitment

This one goes along with integrity, but expands upon it differently. 

Commitment means that you’ve held to your word, even if it was difficult to do so. This might mean sticking with a job or project that you absolutely hate because you promised someone that you would do so. Or it could be remaining faithful to a partner, despite your own non-monogamous leanings, because you gave your word that you’d be loyal.

You’ll see something through, simply because you made a promise.

A person who keeps their commitments is someone who can be trusted and relied upon. When you’re known as someone who keeps their word, you’re incredibly valued and respected in your community, as well as among your friends and loved ones.

11. Honesty

Honesty is often expressed as a quality of a good person. After all, if you discovered that someone lied to you, could you ever trust them again? If they lied to you that time, what would stop them from lying to you about everything and anything else?

People respect and appreciate honesty, especially when it’s difficult. For example, if and when we mess up horribly at work, but own that screw-up, admit to it, and take action to remedy it. Our employers and peers will respect us a lot more than if we try to cover it up or cast blame on others.

Furthermore, many people even appreciate honesty when it’s a bit hurtful. When someone is honest about a difficult topic or situation, it means that they care enough not to betray the other’s trust by lying about it. 

Of course, a lot depends on how a truth is shared. We can be gentle in our tone and the words we choose, rather than being cruel or scathing. How a truth is delivered can make the difference between long-term positive change, and trauma.

12. Humility

You know the type of person who’s always bragging about how awesome they are? Humility is the opposite of that.

Humility is holding to the idea that no person is greater or lesser than any others, despite popularity, wealth, titles, or achievements.

Those who feel that they are better or more important than other people tend to treat others badly. Since they consider themselves to be special, they often expect better treatment, and to be allowed to belittle those around them.

In contrast, someone who remains humble treats everyone around them with care and respect. They don’t tell others about all the wonderful charitable things they’ve done: they just do them. Their actions are for the greater good, not for the acknowledgement and praise they’ll receive from doing so.

13. Strength

The strength that makes a good person is mental and emotional rather than physical. Strength can be shown in a gentle way, albeit one that is unyielding. Look at Mahatma Gandhi and his hunger strike. It took immense strength to quash his own hunger, though agonizing, in order to work toward positive change. 

Hannibal and Marcus Aurelius showed immense strength of character in keeping everyone together while undertaking a massive journey. 

Anne Frank and Mother Teresa both showed tremendous strength in atrocious circumstances. Furthermore, their ability to love and care for others remained intact despite the horrors they witnessed and experienced.

You’ve likely noticed that strength and compassion, and strength and courage are linked. This is because strength is not always a projective virtue, but rather it’s an adaptive term. 

Strength is often a battery for many of the other qualities on this list. For example, you may show immense strength when you hold to integrity when everyone around you is doing something that goes against everything you believe in. Standing up for what you believe is right might be dangerous to you – perhaps even life threatening. As such, it takes immense strength of character and will to be true to yourself. 

There are many different types of love, despite the fact that only one word is used to encompass them in the Western world. We’re mostly familiar with romantic love, or the love felt between parents and children. But we can love humanity or nature with all our hearts as well. And we know that we love when we pour our energy toward other beings’ happiness, health, success, and freedom.

Some people mistake infatuation for love. Or possessiveness. Someone might love another person because they feel that the other person will give them what they need. Similarly, they might love a pet, or a house, or any other being or creature that brings them fulfillment. 

In contrast, when we truly love a person, our greatest wish is for their happiness. 

Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski covers this when he talks about “fish love.” What most people consider to be “love” is when their needs are fulfilled. Such as a man who eats a fish because he loves fish. This man loves the fish he’s eating so much that he took it out of the water, boiled it, and is eating it. He loves himself, and sees the fish as something that will fulfill his needs and wants.

If he truly loved the fish, he would encourage it to swim happily and lead a beautiful life. 

Real love isn’t a question of what we’re going to get from a situation or a person, but what we can give .

15. Self-awareness

You know in your gut when you’ve done wrong, or when you have done good.

If you ever do something and feel a twinge of shame or disgust with your actions, then you’re fully aware that you didn’t act in love or respect. Perhaps you did something sneaky for the sake of your own self-interests. Or the selfish altruism you displayed was far more for your own benefit than the other person’s.

In contrast, when you’ve done something that’s ethical and loving, you’ll feel an immense lightness of being. A warm glow will suffuse through you, and you might even get a bit choked up. You know that your actions will have long-reaching positive repercussions; like a glowing pebble thrown into a pond. Every ripple will carry light along with it.

Listen to this feeling when it speaks to you. Recognize it as your own inner compass, and allow it to lead you to the sincere goodness you’re capable of.

You may also like:

• 10 Tips For Figuring Out What Kind Of Person You Want To Be
• What To Do If You Feel Like You’re A Bad Person
• 50 Personal Development Goals To Set Yourself
• What Is A Personal Philosophy And How Do You Develop One?
• What Should We Aspire To Most In Life?
• How To Show Respect For Others (+ Why It’s Important In Life)
• How To Be Truly Humble, And Why It’s Worth It
• How To Be Patient In An Increasingly Impatient World

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About The Author

Finn Robinson has spent the past few decades travelling the globe and honing his skills in bodywork, holistic health, and environmental stewardship. In his role as a personal trainer and fitness coach, he’s acted as an informal counselor to clients and friends alike, drawing upon his own life experience as well as his studies in both Eastern and Western philosophies. For him, every day is an opportunity to be of service to others in the hope of sowing seeds for a better world.

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Reflect on his life and legacy

With warmth, we honor spiritual guides, crafting tributes of spiritual resonance and connection, voices of heartfelt gratitude: from our client family, gather stories and anecdotes, consider the audience, keep it positive, use quotes and poetry, honoring a life well-lived eulogy example 1, honoring a life well-lived eulogy example 2, eulogy assistant: tributes to spiritual harmony, frequently asked questions.

Losing a great man can be a difficult experience. Whether he was a beloved family member, a friend, or a community leader, his presence will be sorely missed. However, while the pain of his loss can be overwhelming, it's important to remember that his life and legacy can continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who knew him. One way to honor his memory is through a heartfelt eulogy that celebrates his life and achievements.

Crafting a eulogy for a great man may seem daunting, but with some thoughtful preparation and reflection, you can create a tribute that truly captures his essence. Here are some tips and ideas to help you get started:

Think about the qualities that made this man so great. What were his passions and interests? What were his accomplishments and contributions? What impact did he have on the people and communities around him? Reflecting on his life and legacy can help you identify the themes and stories that should be highlighted in the eulogy.

To create a truly personal and meaningful eulogy, gather stories and anecdotes from family members, friends, and colleagues. Ask them to share their memories and experiences with the great man, and look for common threads that can help you create a cohesive narrative.

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When writing a eulogy, it's important to consider the audience who will be listening. If it's a large group of people who didn't know the great man well, you may want to provide more background information and context. If it's a smaller group of close friends and family members, you may be able to be more personal and share more intimate stories.

While it's important to acknowledge the sadness of the moment, a eulogy for a great man should focus on the positive aspects of his life and legacy. Share stories that highlight his humor, kindness, generosity, or other qualities that made him such an extraordinary person.

Quotes and poetry can be a powerful way to add depth and emotion to a eulogy. Look for quotes or poems that resonate with the great man's life or personality, and incorporate them into the eulogy as appropriate.

Ladies and gentlemen, family, friends, and all those gathered here,

We come together in this solemn moment to celebrate and honor the life of a truly great man, [Name of the Deceased], whose journey on this earth has been nothing short of remarkable. As someone who had the privilege of knowing him, I stand before you to share reflections on a life that was rich in love, wisdom, and exemplary deeds. Today, we bid farewell, but we also pay homage to a legacy that will continue to inspire us all.

[Name of the Deceased] was born on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth]. From his earliest days, it was clear that he was destined to leave an indelible mark on the world. He grew up in [Brief Background of Early Life], where he developed the values of integrity, perseverance, and compassion that would define his character.

His journey through life was marked by numerous achievements and contributions. [Name of the Deceased] was a man of many talents and passions. Professionally, he was [Mention his Profession or Career Achievements]. In his career, he was known for his [Mention specific qualities, such as 'innovative thinking', 'leadership', 'dedication']. He approached his work not just as a job but as a calling, and his impact in his field was profound and lasting.

But to truly understand the greatness of [Name of the Deceased], one must look beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a man who believed deeply in the power of kindness and the importance of giving back. He was involved in [Mention any Community Service, Volunteer Work, or Philanthropy], where his efforts made a significant difference in the lives of many. His generosity was not limited to grand gestures; even in his everyday interactions, he exuded a warmth and generosity of spirit that uplifted those around him.

As a family man, [Name of the Deceased] was unparalleled. He was a [mention his roles in the family, e.g., 'devoted husband', 'loving father', 'doting grandfather']. His family was his pride and joy, and he dedicated himself to their happiness and well-being. I remember [share a personal anecdote or story that illustrates his role in the family], a moment that encapsulates his loving nature and the depth of his commitment to his family.

His friendships were a testament to his character. [Name of the Deceased] was the kind of friend everyone hoped to have: loyal, understanding, and always present. He had the rare ability to listen, really listen, and to offer words of wisdom that came from a place of deep understanding and empathy.

One of the most remarkable aspects of [Name of the Deceased]'s life was his ability to face challenges with resilience and optimism. He encountered his fair share of trials and tribulations, but he faced them with a strength and a positive attitude that inspired all who knew him. He taught us that it's not the challenges that define us, but how we respond to them.

As we gather here to honor and remember [Name of the Deceased], it's important to reflect on the lessons he taught us through the way he lived his life. He showed us the importance of hard work, the value of compassion, and the power of a kind word or a helping hand. He was a man who lived not for himself but for others, and his legacy is one of selfless love and service.

In closing, I am reminded of [a quote, poem, or saying that resonates with the deceased's life or philosophy], words that beautifully capture the essence of [Name of the Deceased]'s life and legacy. These words inspire us to carry forward the torch that he lit in each of our lives.

[Name of the Deceased], your journey with us may have ended, but the footprints you left on our hearts will never fade. You lived a life of purpose, love, and exemplary grace. Your memory will continue to guide us, and your legacy will inspire generations to come.

Today, as we say our final goodbye, we do so with heavy hearts but also with a profound sense of gratitude for having known such a great man. Thank you, [Name of the Deceased], for the wisdom you shared, the love you gave, and the life you lived so well.

Rest in peace, dear [Name of the Deceased]. You were a blessing to us all, and you will be dearly missed.

Respected guests, beloved family, and cherished friends,

Today, we gather in a solemn yet profound celebration of life, to pay homage to a man whose existence was a beacon of integrity, love, and wisdom - [Name of the Deceased]. As I stand here, enveloped in the rich tapestry of memories and emotions, I am both humbled and honored to share the story of a man who was not just extraordinary in his deeds but was also an epitome of human kindness and strength.

[Name of the Deceased] came into this world on [Date of Birth] in [Place of Birth] and set forth on a life journey that would leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of everyone he encountered. His early life in [Brief Background of Early Life] laid the foundation of the remarkable character he was revered for - a character steeped in resilience, empathy, and unwavering moral principles.

In his professional life, [Name of the Deceased] was more than just [Mention his Profession]. He was a visionary, a leader who led by example and inspired those around him to strive for excellence and integrity. His work ethic, coupled with his innate ability to connect with people, made him a respected figure in [his field/profession]. [Share a specific instance or achievement from his professional life]. In these moments, he was not only achieving success but was also building a legacy of inspiration.

However, the true measure of [Name of the Deceased]'s greatness was evident in the way he lived his personal life. As a [mention his roles in the family, e.g., 'loving husband', 'devoted father', 'caring brother'], he imbued his family life with the same love and dedication that he showed in every other aspect of his existence. His love for his family was his guiding force, and in his role as a family man, he was both a protector and a nurturer. [Share a personal story or memory that highlights his role in the family].

Beyond the confines of his professional and family life, [Name of the Deceased] was a man of the community. His sense of social responsibility and his compassion for others led him to engage in [mention any community service or social work]. He believed in making a difference, in leaving the world a little better than he found it, and his contributions to the community are a testament to this belief.

One of the most profound qualities of [Name of the Deceased] was his wisdom. He had an uncanny ability to provide guidance and insight, a wisdom that was not just intellectual but also deeply emotional. He understood the complexities of life and human relationships, and in his advice, there was always a depth of understanding and empathy. [Mention a specific piece of advice or wisdom he imparted].

As we bid farewell to [Name of the Deceased], we do so with a collective sense of loss but also with immense gratitude for having been a part of his life. He taught us through his actions the true meaning of honor, compassion, and unconditional love. His legacy is not just in the tangible achievements he leaves behind but in the lives he touched, the people he inspired, and the love he shared.

In closing, I am reminded of [a quote, poem, or saying that resonates with the deceased's life or philosophy], words that embody the spirit of [Name of the Deceased]'s life. These words offer comfort and a reminder of the incredible impact he had on us all.

[Name of the Deceased], your journey on this earth may have come to an end, but the echoes of your life will resonate for generations. You lived a life of honor, grace, and profound virtue. Your memory will continue to inspire us, guiding us like a lighthouse in the journey of life.

As we say our final goodbye, we do so with love and respect, celebrating a life that was truly well-lived. Thank you, [Name of the Deceased], for the wisdom, the love, and the remarkable life you shared with us.

Rest in eternal peace, dear [Name of the Deceased]. You were, and always will be, a great man in every sense of the word.

In the quiet reflection that precedes our final goodbyes, capturing the profound essence of a spiritual guide in words can feel as intricate as trying to sketch the breeze. The sacred act of crafting a eulogy for such a guiding spirit is a journey through deep respect interlaced with the most genuine of emotions. Eulogy Assistant is your companion on this path, delicately fusing tributes of esteem with heartfelt sentiment, and turning poignant memories into enduring honors.

Our team, experts in the art of crafting eulogies with tenderness, is here to support you in creating a homage that reflects the tranquil wisdom and uplifting spirit of your spiritual guide. At Eulogy Assistant , we offer more than a service—we provide a heartfelt collaboration, filled with empathy and compassion, as you celebrate a life of spiritual impact and harmony.

Eulogy Assistant believes in the power of collaboration to craft a eulogy that truly speaks to the heart. By blending your personal stories and reflections with our craftsmanship, we create a tribute that honors and deeply resonates, capturing the essence of your spiritual guide's legacy in every word.

Our methodology is grounded in genuine partnership and creative unity. Your insights and personal anecdotes are crucial, helping to sculpt a narrative that authentically represents the spirit and profound influence of your spiritual guide. This process is about more than recounting their teachings; it’s about celebrating their impact and the wisdom they’ve shared with us all.

Together, we strive to compose a narrative that genuinely embodies your spiritual guide—a eulogy that transcends traditional homage, rich with respect, personal stories, and genuine emotion. Our collaborative creation becomes a heartfelt narrative, a testament to the admiration and connection your spiritual guide has fostered.

The essence of Eulogy Assistant is beautifully reflected in the heartfelt gratitude and reflections from those we've supported. These testimonials highlight our dedication to providing solace and guidance during their moments of reflection.

"Facing the task of commemorating my spiritual guide was daunting, yet Eulogy Assistant provided unwavering support, guiding me to create a eulogy that truly honored their life and wisdom," says Morgan, expressing their appreciation.

"The compassionate guidance of Eulogy Assistant was a beacon during my time of sorrow, helping me to weave a tribute that was not only words but a heartfelt homage to my spiritual mentor," shares Alex, thankful for the support.

These stories underscore our commitment to crafting eulogies that are not merely expressions of respect and admiration but heartfelt commemorations of the spiritual guides who have profoundly touched our lives. We are honored to assist you in this journey, paying tribute to the unique legacies of those who have enriched our spiritual journeys, and creating eulogies that stand as lasting tributes to their nurturing guidance.

Together, let’s create stories that are deeply personal, filled with respect, and truly capture the essence of the spiritual guides who have enriched our paths.

What is a Eulogy for a Great Man?

A eulogy for a great man is a speech or written tribute that honors the life, achievements, and character of a man who had a significant impact on those around him.

How Do I Begin Writing a Eulogy for a Great Man?

Begin by reflecting on the qualities that made him great, your personal memories with him, and the influence he had on others' lives.

What Key Elements Should Be Included in a Eulogy for a Great Man?

Include anecdotes that highlight his character, his accomplishments, the lessons he taught, and the legacy he leaves behind.

How Long Should a Eulogy for a Great Man Be?

A eulogy for a great man should typically be around 3 to 5 minutes, long enough to cover key aspects of his life while being mindful of the audience’s attention span.

Can I Share a Personal Story About the Deceased?

Yes, sharing a personal story can provide insight into his character and the personal impact he had on your life.

Is It Appropriate to Mention His Professional Achievements?

Mentioning his professional achievements is appropriate, especially if they were a significant part of his identity and life’s work.

How Can I Honor His Legacy in the Eulogy?

Honor his legacy by speaking about the values he embodied, the impact of his work, and how he influenced others.

How Should I Conclude the Eulogy?

Conclude with a final farewell, a summary of his life’s impact, or a personal reflection on what he meant to you and others.

Should I Talk About the Challenges He Overcame?

Discussing the challenges he overcame can be inspiring, showcasing his strength, resilience, and the obstacles he faced.

How Do I Handle My Emotions While Delivering the Eulogy?

It’s okay to show emotion. Speak from the heart and take a moment to compose yourself if you become overwhelmed.

Can I Include a Quote or Saying He Lived By?

Including a meaningful quote or saying that he lived by can add depth and illustrate the principles he stood for.

How Do I Make the Eulogy Relatable to Other Attendees?

Focus on shared values, universal life lessons, and experiences that others can empathize with or have witnessed.

What Tone is Suitable for a Eulogy for a Great Man?

A respectful, heartfelt, and reverent tone is suitable, reflecting the significance of his life and the impact of his passing.

Should I Mention How He Influenced My Life Personally?

Sharing how he influenced your life can be powerful, highlighting the personal connection and the lessons you derived from him.

How Do I Address the Audience in the Eulogy?

Address the audience with warmth and inclusivity, recognizing the collective loss and shared admiration for the great man.

Can I Mention His Role as a Family Man?

Mentioning his role in his family is important, as it shows a different facet of his life and the love he had for his family.

How Do I Prepare for Delivering the Eulogy?

Prepare by practicing your speech, reflecting on the key messages you want to convey, and focusing on the essence of his life.

Is It Appropriate to Encourage Others to Share Their Memories?

Inviting others to share their memories after the eulogy can be a meaningful way to collectively celebrate his life and impact.

What Should I Avoid Saying in the Eulogy?

Avoid controversial topics, personal grievances, or any details that might detract from the respectful remembrance of his life.

Can I Use Literary or Poetic References in the Eulogy?

Using literary or poetic references that resonate with his life or your memories of him can add a rich layer to the eulogy.

In conclusion, writing a eulogy for a great man can be a daunting task, but it is also a deeply meaningful way to honor their life and legacy. By reflecting on the impact they had on your life and the lives of others, you can create a heartfelt tribute that truly captures their essence. Remember to take your time, gather your thoughts, and let your emotions guide you as you craft a eulogy that celebrates their unique and remarkable qualities. With patience, care, and a commitment to honoring their memory, you can create a eulogy that will touch the hearts of all who hear it.

Looking For Examples? Here Are Some of The Best Eulogies

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Florida sheriff's office releases bodycam video of fatal shooting of Air Force airman by deputy

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office released police body camera video Thursday showing one of its deputies shooting and killing an Air Force airman at his off-base apartment last week.

Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, was shot late Friday afternoon by a deputy responding to a call of a disturbance in progress, the sheriff’s office said. Okaloosa County is in the Florida Panhandle, east of Pensacola.

The video, which lasts just more than four minutes, begins as the deputy arrives at Fortson’s apartment complex and ends after Fortson has been shot and the deputy calls for medical assistance.

Earlier Thursday, attorneys for Fortson's family had called for the sheriff's office to “correct the narrative” surrounding his death, saying that he had done nothing wrong before being fatally shot and that the deputy had gone to the wrong door.

At a news conference hours later, Sheriff Eric Aden said no determination had been made as to whether the deputy’s actions were justified.

“I want to assure you that we are not hiding or covering up or taking action that would result in a rush to judgment of Mr. Fortson or our deputy,” Aden said.

He said the deputy had not entered the wrong apartment or forced his way into Fortson’s residence, and that the deputy twice identified himself. Aden did not take any questions from reporters.

Fortson’s mother and her attorneys said at a news conference that his girlfriend, who was on a FaceTime call with him throughout the encounter, said that the deputy burst into the wrong unit and fatally shot Fortson when he saw he was armed with a gun. They said the girlfriend, who did not attend the news conference, was distraught. They watched the video after their news conference and before it was released publicly.

The video shows the deputy arriving on scene and being directed to apartment 1401 by a woman whose face is blurred. The woman tells him that someone had overheard arguing there.

The video shows the deputy knocking and twice saying, “Sheriff’s office. Open the door.”

When Fortson opens the door, he appears to be holding a gun that is facing downward. The deputy says, “Step back,” and fires his weapon multiple times. Fortson falls to the floor. The deputy twice yells, “Drop the gun,” to which Fortson replies, “It’s over there.”

The deputy then calls for medical assistance.

“He lost his life because they knocked on the wrong door. Mistakes happen. We know that,” said Brian Barr, one of the family’s attorneys, before the video was released. “Humans aren’t perfect. Good people make mistakes. But good people also own their mistakes.”

He said the sheriff’s office, through its statement about the shooting, had misled the public.

“You go pick it up and read it. What’s it make you think? It makes you think this happened outside. That this kid was in the middle of a disturbance,” Barr said. “And he did something. He instigated this and lost his life. That’s what it makes it sound like. It sounded justified. That’s what they tried to make it sound like.”

In its statement, the sheriff’s office said: “Our deputy responded to a call of a disturbance in progress where he encountered an armed man. The deputy shot the man, who later succumbed to his injuries.”

Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who is also representing Fortson’s family, had also criticized the sheriff’s office’s account before the video’s release.

Fortson’s mother, Chantimekki Fortson, held a framed photograph of her son in his uniform. She said he had aspired to be in the Air Force since he was a young boy and was living his dream. She described him as compassionate, intelligent, loving and respectful.

She implored the sheriff’s department, which she said, “took my gift,” to release more information about the encounter.

“I need you to get his reputation right,” Chantimekki Fortson said. “Tell the truth about my son. I know my son didn’t do anything to you guys. Please clean my baby’s reputation.”

After the video’s release, Fortson’s family said in a statement: “In the four-and-a-half minute, heavily redacted video, it is very troubling that the deputy gave no verbal commands and shot multiple times within a split second of the door being opened, killing Roger.”

They said the video has provided some answers, but “also raised even more troubling questions.” They questioned, among other things, why the deputy didn’t tell Fortson to drop his weapon before shooting and whether he had tried to initiate lifesaving measures. They also said that even though Fortson’s girlfriend initially thought his apartment door had been forced open, she stands by her account and will speak publicly in the near future.

The sheriff’s office has said the deputy, who has not been publicly identified, heard “sounds of a disturbance” and “reacted in self defense” after he encountered Fortson armed with a gun and after he had identified himself as law enforcement.

But Fortson’s mother and her attorneys said that Fortson was on the FaceTime call with his girlfriend during the entire encounter and that he was home alone when he heard a knock at his door. He asked, “Who is it?” but didn’t get a response, Crump said in a statement Wednesday and at his news conference.

Crump said Thursday that Fortson did not see anyone when he looked through the peephole and it appeared as if someone was covering it, citing the girlfriend. The video does not appear to show the deputy cover the peephole. He appears to be standing to the side of the door when he knocks and announces himself the first time.

Fortson believed someone was attempting to break into his apartment, Barr said. So he retrieved his gun, which his family’s attorneys said was legally owned. As he walked back through his living room, law enforcement burst through the door, saw that Fortson was armed and shot him six times, according to the girlfriend’s account. He was taken to a hospital where he later died, the sheriff’s office said.

The girlfriend said she saw Fortson on the ground saying, “I can’t breathe,” after he was shot. She said she believed law enforcement had gone to the wrong unit, because there was no disturbance in Fortson’s apartment and he was home alone.

Chantimekki Fortson said her son’s girlfriend called her while she was still on the FaceTime call. The grieving mother said her son was shot three times in the chest and three times in the left arm.

Fortson was assigned to the 4th Special Operations Squadron. Hurlburt Field, the Air Force base where he was assigned, said in a statement that he entered active duty on Nov. 19, 2019.

In a statement late Tuesday, Aden said he “immediately” placed the deputy on administrative leave and asked the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct an investigation, as required by policy. He said the Florida State Attorney’s Office would also conduct an independent review.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirmed it was investigating the shooting and declined to comment further.

Crump compared Fortson’s killing to that of Botham Jean, an unarmed Black man who was shot and killed in 2018 by a white, off-duty Dallas police officer who mistook his apartment for her own. Amber Guyger was found guilty of murder the following year and sentenced to 10 years in prison .

Crump represented Jean’s family, as well as the families of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd , who were also killed by police.

Janelle Griffith is a national reporter for NBC News focusing on issues of race and policing.

100 Sweet "Happy Anniversary" Quotes to Write in a Card

Wish your husband or wife — or another special couple — all the best with these sentimental messages.

Funny Anniversary Quotes

Cute anniversary quotes for couples and friends, famous anniversary quotes, anniversary quotes for parents, anniversary wishes for milestones.

These anniversary quotes, wishes and messages encompass all that and more, and are inspirational enough for when you need a sweet message to write inside an anniversary card or something thoughtful to share face-to-face with the couple ringing in another year together. And if you’re one half of the couple celebrating said anniversary, share one of these sentiments with a more personalized touch by including personal anecdote about the night you met, a funny story that’ll make you both laugh or even reflect on a hard time that really tested the both of you but inevitably showed how strong your bond really is.

Romantic Anniversary Quotes for Husband or Wife

• "You're my best friend, my partner in crime, my better half, my everything. Happy anniversary, my love."
• "Even after all of these years, my love for you grows more and more each day."
• "Thank you for picking me. I don't know how I got so lucky."
• "You're my sun and moon, and all of my stars. I love you so much. Happy anniversary!"
• "You're everything I've ever wanted and needed in a partner. Thank you for loving me. Happy anniversary."
• "I’m pretty confident that no one on earth is as lucky as me. Why? Because I get to wake up to you every day. Happy anniversary, baby!"
• "You can read my mind without me uttering a single word. We’re soulmates, and I’m eternally grateful that the universe brought us together. Cheers to a lifetime together. Happy anniversary."
• "Our deep, unbreakable connection is something I’ve always dreamed of. I’ll never take our bond for granted. Wishing us a blissful lifetime together. Happy anniversary!"
• "You’re the person who I can count on unconditionally. Without your unwavering love and support, I don’t think I’d be the person I am today. Happy anniversary, honey."
• "Walking alongside you is the greatest journey of my life. I’ll cherish you always. Happy anniversary."
• "Your face brings a smile to my face every day and for that I’m forever grateful. Happy anniversary to the person who makes my heart sing."
• "It’s a privilege to be in your presence. You’re not only a loving partner, but you’re also just an overall amazing person. Happy anniversary!"
• “I am so blessed that I get to spend the rest of my life with you. Happy anniversary, baby!”
• “I couldn’t survive a day without you. I’m so glad we’ve lived to see another year together.”
• “Marrying you was the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
• “Our wedding day may not have been perfect, but it was the happiest day of my life. Thank you for being by my side for all these years.”
• “This is our first year together, but we have an eternity to go!”
• “Happy anniversary, honey. You make my life sweeter.”
• “I can’t believe that I’m married to my best friend. Thank you for making each year together better than the last.”
• “Nothing on earth compares to my love for you. Happy anniversary to my better half.”
• “You’re the most wonderful person I’ve ever met. I can’t believe I get to be by your side for the rest of my life.”
• “Saying ‘I do’ was the best decision of my life. After all these years, I’m so grateful that you said it too!”
• “When I wake up to you every day, I’m reminded of hitting the love jackpot. You’re the best. Happy anniversary, sweetheart.”
• “When I think of all the blessings in my life, you’re the first to come to mind. Thank you for being my person. I love you.”
• “You’re my air and I can’t imagine life without you. I love you today and forever. Happy anniversary.”
• “My love for you is everlasting. Cheers to another year with my favorite person.”
• “I’ll always be your #1 fan. No matter what we’re going through, I’ll always cheer you on. Wishing us a lifetime together.”
• “When I look into your eyes, I see the most wonderful person in the world.”
• “Still in this together. Thanks for going on this lifetime journey with me. Love you forever.”
• “I never dreamed that I would find a love like yours. I’m the luckiest person in the world.”

• "We’ve made another trip around the sun together, and I still can’t believe you’re still willing to take these trips with me!"
• "We’re on the crazy journey of life together, and I can’t think of a wackier co-pilot. Thanks for always being you in all your wacky glory. Happy anniversary, sweetie."
• "You’re the cream to my coffee — I’ll always have the hots for you! Happy anniversary, babe!"
• "At times, we may be like fire and ice, it’s a wonder we haven’t combusted!'
• "We go together like peanut butter and jelly. With your big belly, you’re clearly the jelly! Happy anniversary, sweetie."
• "Nobody understands me the way that you do. I wonder why? Maybe we’re really the same person just in two very different bodies! Happy birthday, my handsome better half!"
• "As we grow old together, just remember that I’ll always be the young, hot one! To many more years together. I love you!"
• “Happy anniversary. You’re the perfect choice for my first spouse!”
• “A wedding band is the smallest handcuff ever made. I’m glad I chose my cellmate wisely.”
• “Thank you for growing old with me. It’s a good thing I find wrinkles adorable!”
• “Happy anniversary – I can’t believe you’re still with me!”
• “I’ve always wanted the best for you – which is obviously me!”
• “A good marriage is like a casserole—only those responsible for it really know what goes in it.”
• “Morning breath and all, you’re still the one I want to wake up to. Happy anniversary, my love.”
• “A marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity. The order varies for any given year.”

• "I’ve never seen a couple so right for each other. You two are a beautiful example of what it means to be happily married. Wishing you many more years together!"
• "Separately you’re both powerful individuals, but together as a pair — you’re unstoppable! Happy anniversary to one of my favorite couples!"
• "You’re such a beautiful couple who complement each other in enviable ways. Stay true to one another and you’ll be together for a lifetime! Happy anniversary."
• "You do a remarkable job of making marriage look easy. You should teach a class! Happy anniversary to a special couple."
• "May God continue to cover and bless you as a couple. Happy anniversary!"
• "Cheers to a couple who exemplify a good and healthy partnership. Happy anniversary."
• “I admire your union. Happy anniversary.”
• “What a beautiful and loving couple. Wishing you a lifetime of wedded bliss.”
• “Family gatherings wouldn’t be the same without you guys. Happy anniversary to one of my favorite couples!”
• “You two are so great to know and be around. Can you adopt me?”
• “I couldn’t ask for a better brother-in-law. Thank you for taking my sister off of my hands! Just kidding, happy anniversary!”
• “You two are the most adorable love birds I’ve ever known. Wishing you a lifetime of love.”
• “No other couple complements each other the way that you do. Happy anniversary to the beautiful pair who makes marriage look so easy!”
• “Spending time with you guys is one of my favorite pastimes. You make life more enjoyable. Happy anniversary!”
• “No marriage is perfect, but you guys come really close. Happy anniversary.”
• “May God continue to cover and bless you in your union.”
• “Who said marriage was hard? Not you guys because you make it seem absolutely effortless. Happy anniversary.”
• “I marvel at the wonderful life you’ve built together. You guys could teach a class on how to do marriage right. Congratulations!”
• “Wow, another year in the books! You guys work so well together. Happy anniversary.”

• “A wedding anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity. The order varies for any given year.” — Paul Sweeney
• “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” — Aristotle
• “I wouldn't change a thing, as happiness you bring. You are my soulmate. A marriage made by fate.” — Catherine Pulsifer
• “Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.” — Robert Heinlein
• "Chains do not hold a marriage together. It is threads, hundreds of tiny threads, which sew people together through the years." — Simone Signoret
• “In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.”— Maya Angelou
• “You know you are in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” — Dr. Seuss
• “I saw that you were perfect, and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were not perfect, and I loved you even more.” — Angelita Lim
• “The secret of a happy marriage is finding the right person. You know they’re right if you love to be with them all the time.” — Julia Child
• “Love grows more tremendously full, swift, poignant, as the years multiply.”— Zane Grey
• “All that you are is all that I’ll ever need.” — Ed Sheeran
• “You are my today and all of my tomorrows.” — Lee Christopher
• “You are the finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful person I have ever known and even that is an understatement.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald
• “The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That’s what I hope to give you forever.” — Nicholas Sparks
• “Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.”— Barnette R. Brickner

• "You two were made for each other. I'm living proof! Happy anniversary, mom and dad."
• "To the couple whose love I get to watch grow stronger and stronger everyday, happy anniversary."
• "You two are the reason I know what love is. Happy anniversary to the best parents."
• "The best thing to come out of your relationship? Me, of course! I mean, the best, most loving parents."
• "You’re the parents all kids hope to have, and I’m so lucky to call you my role models. Happy anniversary!"
• "I’ve grown up watching what it meant to be a loving and caring couple. Thank you for being the blueprint for a healthy marriage. Happy anniversary!"
• "You both show me what real love looks like. To the imperfectly perfect couple I call my parents, happy anniversary!"
• "Love isn’t easy, but loving you two is. Happy anniversary to the best parents!"
• "To my best friends, role models and most importantly, parents, happy anniversary!"
• "Your love is what keeps this family rooted. Celebrating you two today and every day. Happy anniversary!"
• "It’s the perfect day to celebrate the most special people. Happy anniversary, parents!"

• "Hope the next [10] years are even happier than your [first decade] together!"
• "It started with a dream of a life together, and the dream only gets better. Cheers to [insert number] year of marriage!"
• "High-five to your [insert number]-year milestone."
• "Five years, 60 months, 260 weeks, or 1,825 days—however you count it, it all adds up to love."
• "One decade down; forever to go."
• "A quarter may not sound like a lot in money, but in marriage centuries, you two prove it's worth a fortune."
• "For your 25th year in marriage, may you receive more silver gifts than you have silver in your hair."
• "Even though the years continue to pass, my love for you only grows stronger. Happy [30th] anniversary!"
• "Fifty years later and all that glitters is still gold."
• "Congratulations on a love story that has stood the test of time — 70 years and counting!"

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Zombie 2nd mortgages are coming back to life

Chris Arnold

Robert Smith

Sam Yellowhorse Kesler

Karen McDonough sits inside her home in Quincy, Mass. Vanessa Leroy for NPR hide caption

Karen McDonough sits inside her home in Quincy, Mass.

Karen MacDonough of Quincy, Mass., was enjoying her tea one morning in the dining room when she sees something odd outside of her window: A group of people gathering on her lawn. A man with a clipboard tells her that her home no longer belongs to her. It didn't matter that she'd been paying her mortgage for 17 years, and was current on it. She was a nurse with a good job and had raised her kids here. But this was a foreclosure sale, and she was going to lose her house.

Karen had fallen victim to what's called a zombie second mortgage. Homeowners think these loans are long dead. But then the loans come back to life because they get bought up, sometimes for pennies on the dollar, by debt collectors who then move to collect and foreclose on people's homes.

On today's episode: An NPR investigation reveals the practice to be widespread. Also, what are zombie mortgages? Is all this legal? And is there any way for homeowners to fight the zombies?

The Indicator from Planet Money

A deal's a deal...unless it's a 'yo-yo' car sale.

This episode was hosted by Chris Arnold and Robert Smith. It was produced by Sam Yellowhorse Kesler. It was edited by Jess Jiang with help from Bob Little. And it was fact-checked by Sierra Juarez. Engineering by Robert Rodriguez with an assist from Patrick Murray. Alex Goldmark is Planet Money's executive producer.

Help support Planet Money and get bonus episodes by subscribing to Planet Money+ in Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org/planetmoney .

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Find more Planet Money: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Our weekly Newsletter .

Music: Universal Production Music - "Perpetual Mystery," "Move As I Move," and "Playing The Game"

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• financial crisis

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4 warnings and an advisory in effect for 20 regions in the area

Houston life, local doctor asking for community's help to find forever homes for stray puppies.

Heather Kansteiner , Supervising Producer, Houston Life

HOUSTON – Meet Dr. Kabir Rezvankhoo. He’s the ICU medical director at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital .  

Recently, on his way home from work, he found two stray dogs and brought them home.

He didn’t have any pets at the time, but he said he knew he just couldn’t turn his back on these two dogs.

Turns out, both strays were pregnant and now he’s got 13 puppies - for a grand total of 15 dogs.

He’s sharing his story on “Houston Life” in hopes of finding forever homes for all of the dogs involved.

“We’re doing our best you know, but I would love for them to find a home with a loving caregiver,” Rezvankhoo said.

Our friends at the Houston Humane Society have jumped in to help him.

Macey Staes with the Houston Humane Society offered this advice to anyone in a similar situation.

“If you see a stray dog on the side of the street, and you want to help it - have a plan already. If you cannot foster, calling 3-1-1, letting somebody know, posting a picture on the Facebook group is going to be your best option, because right now there is nowhere that you can take in a stray animal,” Staes explained.

Rezvankhoo says so many people are supporting him, including his own wife and kids - and even his neighbors have jumped in to help him care for the pups while he’s at work.

He does plan on fostering the pups until they are ready to be adopted.

If you are interested in fostering or adopting, please visit the Houston Humane Society’s website at www.houstonhumane.org to learn more.

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Heather kansteiner.

Heather Kansteiner is a supervising producer for Houston Life. She has been part of the team since the show launched in 2016. She loves all things Houston and enjoys sharing what makes the city a great place to live, work and play.

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Trump praises fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter during rally speech

Ex-president calls Hopkins’s cannibalistic Lecter ‘late, great’ while condemning ‘people who are being released into our country’

Donald Trump on Saturday praised the fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter “as a wonderful man” before segueing into comments disparaging people who have immigrated into the US without permission.

The former president’s remarks to political rally-goers in Wildwood, New Jersey, as he challenges Joe Biden’s re-election in November were a not-so-subtle rhetorical bridge exalting Anthony Hopkins’s cannibalistic Lecter in Silence of the Lambs as “late [and] great” while simultaneously condemning “people who are being released into our country that we don’t want”.

Trump delivered his address to a crowd of about 80,000 supporters – according to one estimate from a Wildwood city spokesperson – under the shadow of the Great White roller coaster in the 1950s-kitsch seaside resort 90 miles (145km) south of Philadelphia. The crowd began thinning considerably as Trump spoke, a reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote on X in a post that contained video of people leaving the site of the rally.

The occasion served for Trump to renew his stated admiration for Lecter, as he has done before, after the actor Mads Mikkelsen – who previously portrayed Lecter in a television series – once described Trump as “a fresh wind for some people”.

Among other comments, Trump on Sunday also repeated exaggerations about having “been indicted more than the great Alphonse Capone”, the violent Prohibition-era Chicago mob boss.

Trump since the spring of 2023 has grappled with four indictments attributing more than 80 criminal charges to him for attempts to subvert the outcome of the 2020 election he lost to Biden, retaining classified materials after his presidency and hush-money payments to an adult film actor which prosecutors maintain were illicitly covered up.

The trial over the hush money is set to enter its fourth week of witness testimony on Monday.

Yet Capone was indicted at least six times before his famous 1931 tax evasion conviction.

Trump nonetheless used the occasion to call the charges against him “bullshit”, with spectators then chanting the word back at him.

The Philadelphia Inquirer noted that the former president’s supporters had poured into Wildwood in “pickup trucks decked out in Trump flags” from up and down the east coast.

According to the outlet, hundreds of people set up camp overnight on the boardwalk to get into the event.

“The country is headed in the wrong direction,” Kelly Carter-Currier, a 62-year-old retired teacher from New Hampshire, told the Inquirer. “So, hopefully, people will get their shit together and vote the right person in. And if they don’t, I don’t know. World War III?”

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On the other hand, New Jersey Democrats dismissed the significance of the event.

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill said many of the Trump supporters expected would be from out of state. “Jersey is not going to be a welcoming place for Trump,” Sherrill said.

Sherrill’s fellow New Jersey Democrat Andy Kim, a congressman running for the US Senate, said that generalized apathy toward government helped Trump’s support.

“I hope people recognize that he is not somebody that has an agenda that’s going to lead to a better type of politics,” Kim said.

• US elections 2024
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