What do you do the day before you go on Holiday? Make yourself look your best of course. I love going to see Dave and get a full service shave and hair cut. It is one of my most favourite places to go.

Good morning gentlemen, We have had discussions on reaching out to help and lead others to becoming gentlemen. I know many of us have that mindset that “how can I lead when I am not there yet?” But what better example than for others to see your growth first hand? Sure you’re going to make mistakes but for someone to not only see you make that mistake but to take ownership and correct it, is more of an example than anyone can imagine. Letting a person see you as human, foul able, and take ownership then see you correct it, is the mark a leader and a gentleman. Another aspect of leading by example that we all as men and humans fall short of is listening completely. We all think that we do; reality, when you look back at previous conversations that you had you will find that at some point during that person talking you stopped listing and started thinking, formulating your response or your story, or both. When take the time and fully engage in what the other person is saying, we need to give our full attention to them put away our phones, face them directly, make eye contact, and give undivided attention. Also be honest and share your experiences, your success and your failures, this lets them know that you are not perfect, you understand their plight, and you can relate to their struggles and challenges. Don’t be afraid to say you do not know, many of times people will ask me something and I am the first to say I do not know, but I will make every effort to get the answer to their questions. Here are some key points that might help you when giving pointers to someone starting out. 1. Learn to control your emotions 2. Stand your ground, even when you stand alone. 3. Build a mindset so strong, no insult can shake it. 4. Walk away from people who drain your energy. 5. Never beg for attention, you’re undeniable 6. Protect your peace like it’s your last asset. 7. Speak only when your words hold weight. 8. Work like you’re broke, even when you’re rich. Gentlemen, we can make a difference in the lives of people around us and encourage and inspire young men to become gentlemen.

I am not a fan of navy ties with navy suits for several reasons. Mainly it’s falls short regarding creativity. It also rarely matches the right tones when wearing a monochromatic outfit. To my eyes it usually looks like a guy who is very new to wearing a tie and suit (or never ventured far from that stage). However, when done rightly it can also produce a look for a seasoned dresser that represents a bold and brave approach. Here its use is neither. In the midst of 4 meetings, I attended a funeral for a passed fellow Boy Scout district board member and chose tie from Florence with fleur di lis on it (both the Florence Italy symbol as well as Boy Scouts of America). To add some interest I chose my Prince of Wales blue shirt with green accents and a navy and green pocket square to pick up those colors in the tie. Still in mourning for my friend Tim, the Guinness cufflinks felt appropriate. Navy Byford OTC socks, J Fitzpatrick captoes, and my Seiko 5 finished off the OOTD.