Rules for Modern Life

In a world that’s constantly evolving, modern men face a whirlwind of expectations and opportunities. This curated set of principles offers a timeless yet adaptable roadmap—helping you cultivate strong foundations, balance career and relationships, and refine your personal presence. From mastering your mindset to elevating your style, these essential rules serve as a practical guide for anyone striving to lead a purposeful, fulfilling life.

I. Foundational Personal Growth & Mindset

1. Aim for 95% compliance with routines—leave 5% for spontaneity.
2. Recognize everything’s “real price”—know what you sacrifice to get it.
3. Use the 1-1-1 journaling method: one win, one stress, one gratitude (daily).
4. Spend more time in rooms where you feel out of place—seek growth.
5. Add structure to tackle motivation or focus issues—plan your day by the hour.
6. Find your “garden” (like Rockefeller)—regularly practice stillness or solitude.
7. Don’t overthink investments in yourself—books, good food, fitness, etc.
8. Commit to 30 minutes a day for 30 days to learn any new skill.
9. Create stories worth telling—seek adventure.
10. Support charities or the arts—every bit helps.
11. Expose yourself to diverse media and art—expand horizons.
12. Find unity over division—seek shared, higher-level goals.
13. Avoid divisive labels—focus on common human needs.
14. Discuss goals and roles with your partner regularly—stay aligned.
15. Redefine masculinity—grow beyond outdated molds.
16. Seek help from coaches, men’s groups, or therapists if needed.
17. Have a hobby—enrich your inner life.

II. Health Hacks

1. Stick to core, healthy staple meals 90% of the time—minimize junk.
2. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store—focus on fresh, minimally processed foods.
3. Keep a consistent sleep schedule—regularity is critical for health.
4. Eat to 80% fullness—avoid afternoon slumps and overeating.
5. Exercise regularly—both endurance and strength.

III. Wealth & Finances

1. Splurge thoughtfully—treat loved ones and settle debts.
2. Carry some emergency cash—it never hurts.
3. Replenish what you take—leave things as you found them.
4. Remember money is only one form of wealth—health, family, happiness also count.
5. Don’t quit your day job before proving your side hustle’s viability.
6. Cheap can be expensive—invest in quality for high-use items.
7. Automate monthly deposits into an investment account—let it grow over time.
8. Avoid “too good to be true” schemes—get rich slow is the stable path.
9. Treat credit cards like debit cards—pay them off in full each month.
10. Keep 6-12 months of expenses in an emergency fund—reduce stress.

IV. Career & Professional

1. Don’t obsess over salary alone—consider learning, networks, and other intangibles.
2. Stop asking how you can add value—figure it out, then do it.
3. Be reliable—consistently show up and do the work.
4. Develop storytelling skills—data in, story out.
5. Take small tasks seriously—they build trust for bigger ones.
6. Batch email processing—limit how often you check and reply.

V. Communication & Personal Conduct

1. Handwritten notes matter—take time to write them.
2. Don’t lie to those who guide or care for you—they’ll know.
3. Know when to put your phone down—be in the moment.
4. Own your mistakes—apologize, learn, and move on.
5. Don’t dwell on minor slights—let them go.

VI. Social & Relationships

1. Remembering names is effort—put it in.
2. Repeat someone’s name—helps it stick.
3. Open doors for all—courtesy has no gender.
4. Let others praise your hard work—no need to brag.
5. Help others gracefully—no big show needed.
6. Listen more than you speak—you’ll learn more that way.
7. Never avoid hard conversations—minor fixes now prevent major issues later.
8. Vocalize appreciation—lack of it kills relationships.
9. Maintain annual traditions with loved ones—keep everyone close.
10. Accept nothing is perfect—water the grass where you are.
11. When someone’s in crisis, just say “I’m with you”—presence > advice.
12. Assume braggarts inflate reality—take boasts at half value.
13. Compliment a stranger daily—spread positivity, then continue on.
14. Wait 24 hours before acting on heightened emotion—cool heads prevail.
15. Limit time with those who drain you—protect your energy.

VII. Dining & Hospitality

1. Tip generously—good service deserves a reward.
2. Don’t enter a restaurant on your phone—be present.
3. Always bring a host gift—champagne is classic.
4. Carry small bills—tipping should be easy.
5. A napkin is for your lap, not your nose.
6. Tip the helpful concierge at checkout—show gratitude.
7. Know at least one dish you can cook well.
8. Don’t be fussy—try new foods.

VIII. Travel & Public Spaces

1. FaceTiming in public is antisocial—seek privacy.
2. Don’t monopolize overhead bins—share the space.
3. You’ll always wish you packed less—travel light.

IX. Style & Presentation

1. Flaunting logos impresses no one.
2. Wear a decent watch—avoid pulling out your phone.
3. Invest in quality essentials—tools, umbrellas, shoehorns.
4. Invest in good bedding—rest well.
5. Let your style speak for you—no boasting needed.

X. Cultural & Intellectual Engagement

1. Be well-read—even if it’s via audiobooks.
2. Suggest short, impactful books—quality over length.

XI. Additional Suggestions

1. Arrive early—punctuality shows respect.
2. Don’t “yuck” others’ “yum”—respect their taste.
3. Know your drink order—speak clearly and confidently.
4. Dry the dishes—finish every job completely.

How to Use This List

• Start with the inner work (Personal Growth & Mindset, Health).
• Layer on practical wealth, career, and communication habits.
• Build deeper relationships with social, dining, and travel etiquette.
• Refine your outward style and engage culturally.
• Revisit regularly—small, consistent efforts compound into significant life improvements.