Building Character: Simple Yet Effective
As the dictionary defines it, character is the qualities built into an individual’s life that determine his or her response, regardless of circumstances. This is obviously very true since our character is developed and built as we face and respond to different situations in life that we encounter. But if you want to achieve or develop a character that will bring you to success, then you have to build such character on a life purpose.
How? To start with, you have to determine first the character quality you want to establish. You should concentrate and learn about such character. For instance, if you want to develop patience, you have to try to understand what patience really means. You can do this through looking at different examples of real life situations where patience can be applied. You can actually read real life stories of individuals who have shown the character of being patient.
Another example: love. Most people confuse this quality with a crush, increased heart rate and light head, or at best strong emotions. But is that accurate? Probably the best definition of love is being willing to give your life for someone. Notice how this reverses the whole picture from “how does this person make ME feel” to “what can I give?” True love, where one person gives their life for another, can also be found in many examples throughout history. Sometimes it’s necessary to read up on those because the people you know may not be much of an example.
Once you have to be able to study a true example of the quality you’re looking for, it’s time to demonstrate that character. You can do this through setting a specific standard for yourself and rewarding or punishing yourself depending on your behaviour. One of the most effective ways is through money. Give yourself a gift when you reach a goal and give your money to another when you don’t.
Always remember to evaluate yourself and look at the attitudes and actions you have applied during the situation. Ask yourself if you have demonstrated well the character you want to build through the actions and attitudes you have shown.
