While we could say that every skill that comes in handy in life is a life skill, some of them are more important than others. As times change, so do the skills we need to successfully deal with whatever life throws at us. While knowing how to operate a plough or shoot from a revolver might have been high on the list of skills men needed, the situation has most certainly changed. So, let’s take a look at the most important skills every man should know now.
Handshake
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Leaving a good first impression is very important and a full-grip handshake, neither too strong, nor too weak, accompanied by looking in the person’s eyes will help you make the most of your first handshake with someone.
Tying a necktie
We see many billionaire CEOs sporting nothing but plain T-shirts, but there are still many occasions, such as business meetings, weddings or funerals, that require more formal attire. That’s why it’s important to know how to tie a tie instead of asking your mum or dad to help.
Choosing the right clothes and footwear
While you may feel most comfortable in your flip-flops or sneakers, you simply have to know what kind of footwear you need for a particular event. The same goes for your choice of clothes, which should at all times be suitable. Also, make sure you never wear anything dirty or shabby.
Personal hygiene
Apart from looking great, personal hygiene plays a very important role when it comes to our health. Nobody likes to be around a person who doesn’t look after themselves and has greasy hair or bad teeth.
Learning to drive
You might think this is not necessary, but knowing to drive allows you to be rather independent when it comes to travelling, either alone or with your family. That is translated into unforgettable memories you can create for everyone.
Changing a flat tire
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One of the basic life skills that can really come in handy if you have a flat tire on your car or bike in the middle of nowhere or when you can’t afford to wait for help. After all, it’s not that difficult at all and there are many tutorials online that can help you with this skill.
Grilling food
In most cases when you see smoke rising up from a barbecue set, there is a man close to it, carefully regulating the heat and flipping meat, vegetables and buns. There is a very strong connection between men and preparing food outdoors and you should know how to make a great barbecue.
Starting a fire
Starting a fire is important if you find yourself out in cold weather or if you wish to grill some meat. If you don’t have a lighter or matches with you, there are still other methods you could use, so look into the available options. Many people have survived life-threatening situations only because they knew how to start a fire.
Chopping wood
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You might think this is another obsolete skills, but we urge you to think again. You never know when this skill can come in handy and you should, by all means, learn how to use an axe. It may seem like an easy job when you look at those who are good at it, but it surely requires a lot of practice.
Ironing
More and more people are buying clothes that don’t really need ironing, but there are those shirts and trousers that simply have to be ironed if you want to look good wearing them. Since you can’t rely on somebody else to do that for you in every situations, it’s best to learn how to do it yourself.
Fixing minor issues at home
Nobody can possibly know how to deal with every single problem at home, but you should most definitely know to troubleshoot the most common household problems related to plumbing, electricity or fixing a fence. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be able to make your home fully functional much faster.
Doing more on a computer than just use social networks
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Social networks are designed to be used by everyone, so having various accounts on them doesn’t really count as a skill. Instead, focus on learning how to use your computer for something more productive, which might help you land a better job.
Knowing your drinks
If you don’t know much about the stuff you drink, it’s time to change that. Visit a good whiskey distillery in your area and learn more about this globally popular drink, reserved for those who appreciate a good drink when they taste it.
Pouring beer
Again, you may think this is completely unnecessary, but when drinking a fine brew, knowing how to pour it makes a world of difference since only then can the beer produce aromas and flavors it contains.
Fishing and hunting
Apart from being great outdoor hobbies, fishing and hunting can also help you put food on the table, which is why you need these skills. Most people opt for one of these two, but there is no reason why you can’t do both.
Sharpening a knife
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Blades are one of man’s most important tools, but only if they’re sharp. So, learn how to sharpen a blade and do it regularly. That way, you’ll be ready to slice off a piece of fruit or even protect yourself or someone else from a dangerous animal.
Being your own chef
Knowing how to prepare food and use all those wonderful appliances available now is a must for a modern man. You don’t want to depend on anyone else being in a mood to cook your favourite dish for you.
Using washing machine
Learning how to properly wash your clothes will save you the trouble of buying a new item if you destroy your favourite one in your washing machine. It’s not that difficult, but it is essential, especially if you’re living alone.
Mastering the basics of self-defense
This is a skill you just hope you’ll never have to use, but it’s much better to have it if you end up in a potentially dangerous situation. Also, practicing will make you fitter and healthier.
Doing proper push-ups, squats, and pull-ups
These are most simple exercises that can help you get stronger and fitter, but only if you know how to do them properly. Otherwise, you’re running a risk of badly injuring some parts of your body, such as the spine.
Ask a woman out on a date
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This is the best tool in a romantic man’s arsenal. A date will allow you to show your qualities to the lady you’re interested in, rather than stalking her virtually or in reality. So, if you’re single, work on this skill.
Reading books
With fewer men reading books nowadays, you could be the one that stands out. Also, there are so many great things you can learn from books, which can help you later in life. Just find the type of books you like and go ahead!
Giving first aid
Knowing how to give first-aid to someone can actually save their life. So, learn how to do the Heimlich maneuver or perform CPR, in case you find yourself close to someone in need.
Entertaining kids
This is a skill that has recently become very important to man. The role of men in kids’ lives has changed significantly and so have the kids’ interests. Knowing how to keep them entertained is now more difficult than ever.
Tell a joke
Not all men are funny and witty, but we can all learn how to tell a joke or two to entertain our company. So, if quick-wittedness is not among your qualities, at least learn a joke or two.
Most of these skills require certain time and dedication, which is another benefit of acquiring them since we all need something to keep us occupied and help us take our mind off work or school. So, not only are we relaxing and learning something useful, but we are also becoming better people by learning these skills.
Bob Hetfield
Bob is a freelance writer about everything related to lifestyle. In his free time, he likes to research everything related to all activities that real men love, whether it is camping, hunting, fishing, and even food or drink.
