I like John C. Maxwell’s idea about character. He says, “Talent is a gift, but character is a choice.” There are many things in life in which we have no control. But our character is completely within our control.
Character is built. You don’t create your character instantly, but it develops as you make choices in life. You define your character with your words, your decisions, your actions, and even your thoughts.
Character is you, and you know the person you are striving to be. However, character is also what others see of you. Others can not understand your intent or your thoughts, so their view of your character is based on your actions and words.
You can improve your character, and even repair and rebuild your character. Follow the following steps to make improvements:
1. Reflect on your actions over the last month. Where have you cut corners, or made decisions that may have hurt others? How could you have done things differently? Where do you have weaknesses? When do you consistently put yourself ahead of others?
2. Fix your errors. Recognize where your actions have not matched the character you want to be. Make a list of people you have hurt. Take time to apologize and rebuild your character in the eyes of those people.
3. Look to the future. Decide to live and be the character you want to be. Look in the mirror and define where you need to change to prevent mistakes you have made in the past. Challenge yourself to ALWAYS put others before you.
Character is a choice! Choose to be the person you deserve to be.