There’s no denying the fact that Zooey Deschanel has her charms, but the real reason we love New Girl is because of Schmidt and his bat-shit crazy antics. Schmidt is a cornucopia of angst, superficial opinions, half-baked learnings of Judaism, narcissism at its best (impressive in the days of ‘selfies’), and bold fashion choices. Do you know any other man out there who is capable of pulling off a cropped kimono? Despite all of Schmidt’s idiosyncrasies and adoration of Michael Keaton, we have to love Schmidt for paving the way for men today. For all of you guys out there, who relish in your spin class routine and feel confident discussing weekly exfoliation, please keep reading. This week we’ve compiled a list of things that young professional men should learn from Schmidt…
Schmidt
When asked about India: “I love ‘Slumdog’. I love naan. I love pepper. I love Ben Kingsley, the stories of Rudyard Kipling. I have respect for cows, of course. I love the Taj Mahal, Deepak Chopra, anyone named Patel. I love monsoon. I love cobras in baskets.”
YP tip: Be well travelled
Being worldly is a must for young professionals. Spending time abroad is always good for conversation. Being able to retell a story about biking around Europe or trekking in the Himalayas is always a sure-fire way to strike up a conversation at work functions, in new social circles, or a great way to connect dots with potential employers.
Schmidt
“Know this: your caveman ideas about manhood are so over. Manhood today is about exfoliation, cheese courses, emotional honesty and Paxil.”
YP tip: Be secure with your manhood
Men out there, especially if you are single, you need to know there is nothing more attractive to women than a man who is secure enough to try new things. That’s right, this might mean you’ll have to suffer through a down dog or two or a Rihanna concert, but trust us: Your efforts to step outside your comfort zone of fantasy football and wing night will pay off in the end!
Schmidt
“I can’t find my driving moccasins anywhere.”
YP tip: Personal style is important
While Schmidt’s fashion sense can err on the side of absurd, there is nothing wrong with standing out. We’re not saying you should invest in driving moccasins or walking capes but be bold this year with a few signature items that will turn heads in the office and out on the town. 2014 is calling for double-breasted blazers, floral patterns and colourful trainers.
Schmidt
“There are plenty of things to be down about – the deficit, air pollution in China, ‘The Hobbit’ wasn’t very good…”
YP tip: Stay current on world events
Don’t let yourself be put in that awkward situation where you draw a complete blank when it comes to chatting with your boss or clients about what’s happening in the world. Just remember that to most of the world, Miley lighting up on stage isn’t conversation-worthy. Pick up the paper every once in a while, turn on the news, or hit up a podcast on current events.
Schmidt
“And it was you, not Keaton, who told me that women aren’t attracted to men who wear maternity pants?”
YP tip: Seek out a mentor
Mentors can be a wonderful resource, especially in the workplace. Whether you’re looking for advice on how to advance your career, how to navigate work politics or simply just a confidant, a mentor can often steer you in the right direction and save you some costly mistakes.
Schmidt
“I can do anything I put my mind to. I once figured out Alyssa Milano’s phone number just by randomly choosing numbers.”
YP tip: Be determined
Determination can set you apart from the pack, especially in today’s workplace where many young professionals are criticized for having a sense of entitlement. Showing a little old-fashioned elbow grease and gusto can really put you on the fast track to success.
Schmidt
“Without sex, she’s not your girlfriend. She’s a friend you buy meals for.”
YP tip: Don’t be a pushover
There is something very true to the saying nice guys finish last. Now, this doesn’t mean you need to be a jerk on the dating scene, but don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and be assertive. Girls like a man who can put their foot down every once in a while.
Cover image from: Vanity Fair