Character is one of the Life Perspectives stressed on this website.
In general, character is the aggregate of attributes and traits that form the individual nature of a person. It refers especially to the moral qualities and ethical standards that make up the inner nature of the individual. In contast, personality refers more to outward characteristics that a person displays and uses in social interaction, which affects the impression he makes on others. Each person should seek desirableand positive qualities to become a part of his basic character. This will strengthen his character.
CHARACTERISTICS – There are many qualities of character or characteristics that a person may possess in various degrees. Here are some examples of good characteristics. Collectively they should illustrate what good character is. Obviouly, the lack of these characteristics, or the opposite of them in some cases, is bad character.
- Honesty and integrity in speech and action
- Respect other people, their rights, and property; fair in dealing with them
- Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy
- Social, friendly, kind; courteous; having good manners and displaying proper etiquette
- Courage and bravery
- Work hard; not be lazy; accept responsibilities; do duties with good attitude
- Thrifty ; conserve rather than waste resources
- Moral cleanliness in relationships; no sexual activity except between a legally married husband and wife
- Cleanliness and neatness; order
- Humility rather than pride; avoids vanity; not conceited
- Spiritual; obeys God’s commandments
- Confident; assertive
- Love others and serve them; helpful; not selfish
- Maintain good physical and mental health
- Obey the law; legal in all activities
- Steadfast in adversity; consistent in daily living
- Flexible to deal with change and circumstances beyond your control
- Good ethics for guiding self and making decisions
- Loyal to parents, supervisors, and leaders
- Not easily deceived; avoids foolish things
APPLICATION OF CHARACTER – Character is not something you put on the shelf to display, nor to use periodically when you feel like it. Good character should become an internal part of your being. It is with you at all times and in all places. It is used in all relationships, roles, and affairs. It is holistic in nature.
Good characteristics should be sought, learned, and absorbed into daily living. Through use, they become a part of you. Your overall character is strengthened. If bad characteristics are adopted, your overall strength of character goes down. There is no way to escape this reality of life.
FRUITS OF GOOD CHARACTER – As you develop and utilize good character, several positive things happen in your life. You are happier with yourself as a person. Your performance in activities is better. Your relationships are stronger and you have more true friends. Over time there are less mistakes and less regrets. There are more good memories.
As stated previously, good character breathes life into everything you do. It is a positive reinforcement for all your desires and dreams. It supports ambition and any assertive action taken to fulfill that ambition. It helps you to achieve worthwhile goals.
Seek and exemplify good character. Teach it to young people. Let it be a priority in the lives of all of us. The social benefits are enormous.
MORE INFORMATION – A lot of information on this website is provided to help people strengthen their Character. For more ideas about Character, read the Ideas For Living Articles on this website.
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