Would you say that you have good character? Why or why not?
As a grade school teacher, I discussed character with students. We took a hard look at many of the elements of good character on the rating sheet below:
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Today as I thought about these characteristics of good character, I thought about what each trait means to my life today.
Respect
The goal for me in this regard is to respect the many ways people choose to live their lives and spend their time. I want to coach myself to be less judgemental and more respectful in this regard.
Responsibility
When we're responsible, we make less work for others--doing our part is key.
Perseverance
We all face challenges in life, and the more we can positively persevere, the better off we are.
Gratitude
When we take the time to think about all the good people do for us in life, we can clearly see that we owe a show of gratitude to those individuals. To show gratitude for what you have and who takes care of you, should be a daily activity.
Kindness/Courtesy
When you're on the go all the time, you may not slow down to be as kind and courteous as possible. This is essential.
Self Control/Discipline
The older you get, the more you have to focus on utilizing good patience in most situations. This patience takes self control and self discipline. Also to achieve the kinds of goals that lead to good living similarly requires self control and self discipline.
Honesty
There's nothing wrong in telling the truth, and let's face it, few untruths stay that way. Best to be honest at all times.
Cooperation
The best of life comes with good collaboration and cooperation. No one can live life successfully without working with others. Work to be the best possible teammate at all times.
Tolerance/Acceptance
Life will hand you situations that are difficult to accept and tolerate, but you have to coach yourself to embrace those situations with as much love, care, and support as possible.
Friendship
To be a good friend is a super power in life.
Courage
Sometimes it takes courage to do what is right and good, and it always worth finding the courage to do that.
Humor
It's a big mistake to take life too seriously--find the humor in situations. Most situations become easier to take if we use a light hearted approach and a sense of humor.
Humility
We're all in this together, and to think one is much better than another is foolish. Humbling move through life step after step doing your best to live well for yourself and others.