April 24, 2023
“People do not seem to realize that their opinion of the world is also a confession of their character.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Today we are obsessed with speed. Yet, real maturity is never the result of a single experience, no matter how powerful or moving. Growth is always gradual and requires a humble and teachable spirit. There are no shortcuts to maturity. The development of character cannot be rushed.
Dimensions of character.
Authenticity. There is no rival to authenticity. It feels good to line up our lives from within.
Self-Management. Your character is the sum of your habits. Your habits define your character. You must practice them and make them matter, and that takes time. There are no instant habits.
Humility. We’re not meant to see how important we can become but rather to see how much of a difference we can make in the lives of others. “If you tell me how you get your feelings of importance, I’ll tell you what you are.” Dale Carnegie.
Courage. Courage empowers us to do what’s right in the face of fear, fatigue, adversity, and uncertainty. Character guardrails are the decisions you make before you face high-pressure situations. It’s easier to manage yourself if you’ve already made the tough decision of who you will be, regardless.
Values. Maintaining grounded character is impossible if you don’t know what you value or who you authentically are.
Continuing to live a life of character requires reflection, brutal honesty about our true motives behind what we do, and the courage to do the right thing. The result of developing a strong character on the inside is self-respect, which comes from making the right choices. So, work diligently – daily – to develop who you are from within. It matters!
Intentionally Own It! Reflection:
Consistency. Am I the same person no matter who I am with?
Choices. Do I make the best decisions for others, even when another option would benefit me?
Credit. Am I quick to recognize others for their efforts and contributions to my success?
-Adapted from Maxwell Leadership