Five things every man should own.

You can not continue living with out these.

There is a point in life in which you look back and realize "holy crap, I need to man up". These moments are the ones that get you to stop wearing Velcro shoes, start to consider other peoples perspectives and teach you to realize that your convictions are never to be bent for anyone. Unfortunately I know of a lot of men that have matured on the inside but they have yet to make the transition to the exterior. I want to give you a concise list of things that every man should own by the time he reaches 20 years of age, these physical items will help you to boldly step in to manhood and state to the world that you are a man of intelligence, class and honor.

1. A real wallet.

 Imagine this, that hot girl you been drooling over has finally accepted to go on a date with you. The dinner was perfect, you made her laugh a lot, and she keeps saying that this is the most fun she has had in a long time. You ask for the check, and as she is drifting in to thought about your potential future together, she is abruptly brought back by a loud and awful crackle. What could that awful sound be? Is there some toddler near by adjusting his tiny shoes? No, she looks down and to her disappointment, the sound is coming from your spider-man Velcro wallet. There goes that romantic future.

 As men we are constantly picking up tabs, your wallet is constantly seen by others in restaurants, movie theaters, shops, etc. So do you really want people's perspective of you to be "the guy that never grew up"?  I don't think so. You are a grown man and your wallet needs to reflect that. It really isn't hard nor expensive, all you need is a simple leather wallet or money clip. A brown leather wallet goes with just about everything and is great for your every day carry. A black leather wallet is a bit more formal so I would personally save it for a important business dinner or wedding, however there is nothing wrong with simply rocking a black wallet every day. If you opt for a money clip don't go for anything gold or flashy , that is just goddy.

2. A Bible.

This is The Anvil so of course we are going to talk about this. As stated by previews blogs, true manhood comes from having an intimate relationship with the God that designed us burly dudes. How can you possibly have an intimate relationship with Him, if you don't know when or how you can get a hold of His book. When you where a little bambino you could bum your grandmas Bible or perhaps sneak a peek from the kid sitting next to you in church, but now that you are a man you need to do yourself a favor and buy a Bible to call your own. You will read more and grow bounds when you take this step.

3. A leather belt.

I found myself in a very awkward situation when I was younger. I was going to an event that required me to be dressed up, since I was young and immature, I never had the need to tuck my shirt in, that is until that event. I then realized that I owned all kinds of crazy looking belts but not one that would look acceptable for the dress occasion, I ended up borrowing the one belt of my dad's that fit me. It was a ugly black belt with gold metal work straight out of the 80's, I looked and felt ridiculous. 

Now that you are a man you will find your self in black tie situations (read, tuck your shirt in.). When you do, make sure you have a nice leather belt to go with it. Like the wallets, a brown belt goes great with just about every thing except black pants. If you are wearing black pants then they absolutely call for a matching black belt. The good news is that a lot of companies make great quality interchangeable belts, one side black one side brown.

4. A pocket Knife.

 The uses for this tool are endless, and you will more often find yourselves in need of one, than wondering if the weight is worth carrying it. This tool will allow you to solve problems and defend yourself in need be. The options out there are endless so buy one that fits your personality and every day needs. Believe me, not many feelings are as good as saving the day by being the one guy with a blade.

For a list of worthy Knife Companies check out our post titled 'Knife companies you can trust"

5. Leather shoes.

Have you ever seen that guy wearing a suit with tennis shoes? or the guy in the office wearing khaki pants, polo shirt and New Balances? They look absolutely ridiculous. You will too when you find yourself wearing your Chuck Taylor's to a wedding. You are a grown man and is time to get some big boy shoes. I am not saying you need to wear dress shoes every day, however, they do need to be in your closet for when the need arises.

As always follow the rule of leather, brown shoes with light colors, black shoes for formal events or any time you wear black pants.

All of these Items are worth the money and you will see how much more versatile and confident you become the moment you acquire them. This world is constantly changing, as men we adapt and overcome any obstacle in our way, whether we wear dress shoes and pressed pants or hiking boots and cammo, men get it done. Until next time, and thank you for reading.