No matter who Sir Thomas Sean Connery portrays in the movies, he always comes off as a sexy, debonair and suave gentleman who reeks of romance. Blessed with a voice that could charm the pants of a saint, he need not do anything more than conjure up a bit of the Scottish brogue to incite swooning women and jealous men. However, it’s more than a look. It’s more than a sound. It’s the entire package. Strong. Striking. Mysterious. A bit of a rebel and a rouge.

Although the man is old enough to be my father, I can safely say that none of my dad’s cronies look anything like Connery. The epitome of an international man of mystery, he is also a bad boy, a hero and a heartbreaker with flowing gray hair, a full beard and strong, steady hands. When I see Sean Connery on television or in a movie, I have to physically stop myself from fantasizing about a man whom I have always considered as ruggedly and wildly handsome as his home country.

I think his appeal comes from never running away from a challenge, especially one wearing high heels, spandex and more than one concealed weapon. Sean Connery is intense when he speaks, directing his full attention to the person he is talking to. Every moment is slow, precise and never includes a hint of hurry or indecision.

I have never heard that Sir Connery is a fool and I am quite certain he has fully utilized and honed his natural persona, which has made him quite popular with the ladies and not-as-popular with the men. Is this an unfair advantage to the rest of mankind? Certainly not. Just strive for what Sean has managed to perfect—making every person important to you feel like they are a stunning supermodel, Prince Charming or a priceless treasure.

In order to accomplish this, let’s break down Sean’s sexy shell and see what’s inside. First of all, he always looks good in what he’s wearing. From khaki jungle garb, to cowboy attire, to a sleek tuxedo…or much less. Then you have that soft and sexy beard, but then again he looks just as great clean-shaven. That voice, strong and direct, always tinged with a bit of humor that makes you wonder what he’s thinking…and when he is going to get around to giving you a kiss!

His eyes reach out and grab you, demanding your full attention…even if you are watching a late night Connery movie on a tiny black and white TV screen. Those hands—strong like a warrior’s, not like a dandy’s—are the hands of a man who works for what he wants and doesn’t expect others to do it for him.

Now, even though Sean Connery is very male and exudes a masculinity that defies definition, there are many of his attributes that could easily be adopted and most assuredly would be appreciated by your sweetie. Start by being comfortable with who you are and what you wear. Don’t fight fashion, define your own personal style and set some of your own trends. Expound upon your personal assets and never underestimate the magnetism of a genuine smile.

Be kind in your speech and think about your words BEFORE you say them…and don’t always be in a rush (Boy, do I struggle with this one!). Slow down, savor the moments you spend with others and make every minute worth remembering. And, when you are talking with someone, give them the gift of your full attention and respect them enough to listen to what they are saying, so they FEEL valued, respected and special.

Don’t be afraid of hard work and remember that something made with your hands or your heart is better than anything money can buy. (Personally, I like hand-whittled diamonds, heartfelt checks with lots of zeros and two-hour massages…wink! Wink! Nudge! Nudge!)

Being a romantic is not something you can pull out of the closet like a tuxedo and put on for special occasions, it is a way of life that demands you be engaged in your most special relationships every day. Also, you don’t save your loving, thoughtful and generous nature for your spouse…extend your efforts to your friends, family and co-workers….more on that in a later blog!

I’m not saying you have to a candlelit dinner waiting every night (guys, this goes for you, too), but every once in a while is certainly nice. Likewise, a love note, sexy pager message or a lacy “welcome home” from a hard day at work can turn up the flame and keep the romance bubbling like a warm post of stew and cornbread on a cold, winter’s night.

Women, too, can learn a thing or two from Sir Sexy Sean. What man would not like a confident, collected and forthright woman who speaks kindly, works hard and could melt a cold heart with a hot look? (…only a stupid, close-minded chauvinist who is better off living alone in his RV behind his mom’s house, drinking warm beer and sitting around in his saggy underwear with his flea-infested dog, that’s who!)

Be proud of who you are, where you come from and what you have to offer the world. Utilize your strengths to surprise and delight others. Are you a great cook? Make her a wonderful dinner. Are you good with your hands? Make him a picture frame and put yourself inside. Are you a writer? Tell the world how wonderful your honey is with sweet words…you can always use Splenda, if you are a diabetic!