TEACHINGS FROM JAMES BOND FOR THE MODERN MAN

Ever since the release of the first film; ‘Dr No,’ in 1962, each actor; from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig, who have essayed the role of the famous British sky, has given men a view at ‘how to live the high life.’ This article tries to usher the readers on the path of living life ‘James Bond style.’

Let’s be frank here

All the men out there admit it, haven’t there been moments where you have wished to live the James Bond lifestyle: the cars, the women, the adventures, and the spy gadgets. Ask yourself ‘isn’t it the case?’ I am sure you would get a ‘yes’ as answer. Now let’s talk to the women folks – haven’t there been moments where you thought ‘what it would be to have James Bond as a boyfriend?’ I know…I know, over the years James Bond hasn’t build a good track record with women, and has changed them quite frequently like he changes his cars. I must add here that Daniel Craig has mended that image somewhat. Still, I bet there have been incidents where you would have thought ‘how would it feel to be James Bond’s girlfriend?’ Instead of being the girlfriend of the boring man: your boyfriend, sitting across the table.

Behind the facade

It doesn’t matter whether you are a book nerd or a film buff, you are sure to be aware that Ian Fleming’s creation; possibly world’s most famous fictional character, is one cool dude - who can shoot and fly helicopters, bed women effortlessly and can choose the perfect wine, knows his way around fast cars and can handle complex computer systems, can handle high tech weapons and easily fight off multiple attackers barehanded, on top of that he can also survive being shot and many a gory tortures. Behind this glossy outer layer; that attracts millions and millions of adoring fans from all over the world, there are characters in this fictional individual that are worth studying and surly would not be wasted –‘ if you decide to inculcate them in your life: being a man and ‘you decide to motivate your man to learn: being a woman.’

Endurance

The primary skill that keeps James Bond going is endurance. Despite being wounded, outnumbered, outgunned and surrounded by enemies many a times he endures; sometimes he is also shown to be afraid. You can also improve your physical endurance by taking up a physical exercise or a physical sport. And, for mental endurance, put yourself in situations which help in developing your patience and jog your mental abilities by solving problems.

Confidence

James Bond is supremely confident, this quality make him great at his work: sometimes being overconfident offers better results than being objective and rational. This confidence would come to naught if he loses his cool; like in the case of James Bond when people are trying to kill him. He doesn’t move unnecessarily; never is seen fidgeting and rarely is rushed. So you should remember to have a commanding body language and not be afraid to take up space.

Never let an opportunity go

He wins most of his battles by seeing opportunities and then following them till they bring him success. Be it in your professional or personal life never let an opportunity go – next time you spot one simply go for it and see where it leads, and find out where you can go from there.

Always dress the part

Jog your mind and try to remember whether Bond has ever looked un-kept? No matter the situation he is always dressed smartly. Remember that, part of being a man means dressing well for every occasion: like in suits, hats, collared shirts, well fitted trouser and causal wears. So take note and spend a little time refining your wardrobe. And, don’t forget your timepiece: the most important accessory.

Be prepared with Plan B

Whenever Bond finds himself in a confrontation he always has a backup plan. This is a great character to have, so you must develop the ability to not only plan ahead, but also to be able to spot when a situation is not going to plan and make the right changes. This trait would help you in wasting less time and managing a situation smoothly.

With women

James Bond makes women drop to their knees simply because he is assertive - making her feel, that she is the only one in the world. Holding open a door and commenting on small details: are signs of good manners. Misinterpreting comments in a sexual way can be fun: remember ‘it is better to edge towards the naughty side.’ Surprise women and take risk, like hold your umbrella up over a woman, give a passing woman a flower, as these kind of random acts of kindness brighten everyone’s day and create magical moments. And, you should learn from Bond – always go for the ‘top of the line woman’ as they embody the essence of what a woman should be: smart, elegant, independent and obviously sexy.

Constantly reinvent yourself

Throughout the years James Bond has evolved: for instance many fans think of Roger Moore’s light hearted touch as the ultimate Bond, others prefer Sean Connery or the present James Bond Daniel Craig. So you must keep reinventing yourself according to your professional or personal needs – apply for that online course or take that gym membership. It is always helpful to remember that qualities like work/service provided, personal touch and quick response need to remain constant, while qualities that make you outdated or shows you as out of date needs to be upgraded constantly.

Travel far way places

For a few moments revisit; in your mind, all the exotic locations; you have seen in movies or read in novels, where Bond is seen. Obviously the locations are picture perfect, but take away the aspect of seismic beauty and concentrate on traveling. The truth is that ‘the more you travel, the more you learn about yourself and the world.’ So go out and travel, soon you would realize how insignificant you are in the grand scheme of things and this would also allow you to free yourself.

Know your enemy

Bond never enters a battle without knowing finer details of his enemy, and has answers to questions like: who he is? How he thinks? What he desire? Etc. For you, as well as Bond sometimes the enemies are quite obvious, but other times enemies hide their-selves. Your enemy could be a business rival, a coworker or a rival in love: who is seeking your failure. So it is better to learn your enemy’s strengths and weaknesses before they start to harm you or your interests.

Study James Bond

Re-watch the old Bond movies or read all the novels, and pay close attention to ‘how the writers portray Bond.’ This would explain and teach you, ‘how or why Bond carries himself’, ‘way that he talks and interacts’ with other characters of the story.’ Whenever you find yourself uncertain about any action that you have to take then a simple technique should come to your rescue – ask yourself would James Bond do it? If the answer is ‘no,’ then don’t take that step. In all this don’t forget your underline focus: that you have to ‘adapt Bond’s characters into your way,’ and not commit the mistake of converting yourself into a Bond caricature.