There are many rules, and at the same time you have to make your own rules. Whatever the case, there are some age-old truths for men that have stood the test of time.

1. No one is coming to save you

The day you realize this is the day your freedom starts. Not a person. Not the government. You will be guided sometimes but you have to make the efforts of moving for yourself. You will have to do it on your own.

Take responsibility as soon as possible.

2. Adulthood isn’t about a number

There are 40-year-old boys and 20-year-old men. Whether you are an adult or not, is dependent on your attitude towards life. Internalize this.

You will grow quicker.

3. You aren’t entitled to anything

Nothing is given to you. You don’t deserve wealth or happiness, just because you are born. You will have to earn it. Work hard for them. 

A good life is on the other side.

4. Nothing good ever comes easy

You will have to work hard for what you want. Don’t expect the good things in life to come without a grafting effort. Nothing sweet ever tastes as good without the bitter. 

You need contrast.

5. Humility will serve you

No one likes a cocky guy. You should work on your confidence, but never come across as arrogant. Be humble. Flex through your actions, not your words.

Do great things without bragging.

6. Embrace your masculinity

As a man, you should be proud of what you are. The chance you are born a male is literally 50/50. You have your traits for a reason.

Make sure you put them to use.

7. Stop explaining yourself

You don’t need to explain yourself to people. You choose your actions. And owe nothing to anyone. Don’t go through life apologizing for everything you do.

Live ruthlessly unapologetic.

8. Life is about giving, not taking

You won’t become happy through constantly taking, as it often includes pleasure. You want to receive the benefits of pleasure activities. But true happiness is found by giving.

This will fulfil you.

9. Face your challenges (or they will face you)

To crush life, you must conquer your challenges. By picking them out, you choose your struggle. If you don’t, life will do it for you. The struggle is inevitable.

Better be picky.

10. Patience is a must

Nothing good will ever come quick, nor easy. Putting in 1% each day will accumulate over time. Don’t sit around waiting. 

Be there to actually witness the fruits of your work.

11. Procrastination is your biggest enemy

Your happiness, your progress, your success. They will all suffer massively if you constantly put off the work. Learn to become disciplined.

Stagnation = decline.

12. Your urges are your second biggest

Besides what society wants you to believe, the best things in life are not binge drinking, casual sex, and gorging food. In fact, they will make your life worse if you aren’t careful.

Instead, build something worth living for.

Writer: Banele Rewo