**Listen to the article using the A.I. clone of my voice from ElevenLabs.**
Are you curious about how to develop your character?
It’s a fact that many of us rarely engage in deliberate actions aimed at enhancing our character. We often endure circumstances that expose our characters, but we seldom strive to sharpen them. It’s as though we settle for who we are.
But suppose there was more than just acceptance?
True character development is not an intermittent exhibition of virtues but a consistent application of our fundamental values throughout our lives. This demands an understanding of what matters to us.
Firstly, we must determine what values and virtues are essential for our character development. This requires self-examination and introspection. In the method of deep work described by Carl Jung, this is referred to as “shadow work”. It involves delving into our deepest fears, insecurities, and negative attributes to understand ourselves better. Only then can we identify what needs improvement and actively strive to enhance our character.
Once we’ve determined our values and virtues, we must practice them regularly. This involves making mindful choices and executing deliberate actions per our values and beliefs. It also includes sustaining these actions, especially when faced with obstacles or hardships.
Developing character is a learning journey.
Like all learning journeys, it demands evaluation.
There needs to be intentionality in our character formation.
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” – Helen Keller
Character starts to be formed when we consciously align our actions with selflessness. By prioritizing the needs of others over our own, we foster traits like empathy, compassion, and kindness, which are crucial for building a robust character, as they aid us in better understanding and connecting with those around us.
Character is developed by broadening our worldview. It involves deliberately trying to understand others’ experiences and living not just through them but for them. It means being open-minded and accepting varied perspectives and beliefs.
A vital aspect of character development is self-discipline. It includes setting high personal standards and ensuring we adhere to them. It involves resisting temptations that conflict with our values and virtues, regardless of how enticing they may be.
Character is formed through adversity. Our character is truly challenged and fortified by facing challenges, struggles, and hardships. As Helen Keller stated, such difficult times provide perfect character growth and development opportunities.
When did you last step out of your comfort zone? Our character is often shaped by our willingness to embrace discomfort. Personal growth comes from pushing our boundaries, confronting our fears, and challenging ourselves to achieve things we never imagined possible.
Character is built through volunteering abroad, donating our time, and giving of ourselves.
In our contemporary culture that values comfort, stability, and self-interest, the ongoing endeavor to enhance our character becomes increasingly essential.