Character

What you do is important, but what is even more important is who you are. That’s what defines your character. It’s how you treat others and how you make others feel. Author Robert Sutton defines character as, “the difference between how a person treats the powerless versus the powerful.” Those of great character always treat other people, no matter their rank or status, with courtesy and consideration.

What virtues are you showing in your behavior? As many famous people have written, your character is one thing you always want to be aware of, because your character determines your reputation. Actions speak louder than words. A wise man once said, “Character is what you do when you think no one is looking”.

Something to Think About
Character is something that we can all have, and that we can continually work to achieve or to improve upon. It does not require money or a degree. It requires a desire to be the best that you can be and to treat others with respect, kindness and consideration.

Weekly Activity
Spending time working on your strengths and weaknesses is time well spent. Are you prudent, kind, and just? Are you resilient and strong? Are you temperate? Are you honest? This week, spend time each day developing your character.

Words of Wisdom
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” – Helen Keller

“Character is not something that you buy; it is not a commodity that can be bartered for; it is not a quality suited for only the rich and famous; rather, character is built upon the foundational commitment of love, honesty, and compassion for others.” – Byron R. Pulsifer

“Tolerance is a fundamental character trait of great people and a part of the attitudes and practices of those we admire and respect. People without tolerance are diminished and poor.” – John K. Carmack

“How we behave toward and around our children has much more influence on their character than if we only tell them about how they should or should not behave.” – Russell Kolts

“We are not just products of our past; people in our present also influence us and help mold our character.” – David Packer