“Good character is not formed in a week or a month. It is created little by little, day by day. Protracted and patient effort is needed to develop good character.” ~ Heraclitus
1. Carry Yourself with Confidence
Be comfortable in your skin, maintain good posture and eye contact, and make a positive impact on the world through your contributions.
“As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
2. Humble in Victory and Defeat
Avoid boasting or rubbing your victories on others’ faces. Don’t lose your temper when you lose. Exhibit good sportsmanship and appreciate support without expecting it.
“Show class, have pride, and display character. If you do, winning takes care of itself.” ~ Bear Bryant
3. Speak Clearly and Eloquently
Communicate in a clear, concise, and easy-to-understand voice. Avoid mumbling or using excessive informal language.
“In an easy matter. Anybody can be eloquent.” ~ Ovid
4. Courteous and Respectful to Others
Treat everyone with the same level of respect, regardless of their status or position.
“I speak to everyone in the same way, whether he is the garbage man or the president of the university.” ~ Albert Einstein
5. Choose Your Friends Wisely
Avoid associating with negative or dishonest people in both your professional and personal life, unless you are trying to help those in need. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and inspire you.
“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” ~ Oprah Winfrey
6. Never Overindulge in Food or Drink
Practice self-control. If you smoke or drink, do so in moderation.
“If one oversteps the bounds of moderation, the greatest pleasures cease to please.” ~ Epictetus
7. Judge Others Based on Their Character
Value character over wealth, appearance, or status.
“When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.” ~ Billy Graham
8. Do Not Allow Others to Disrespect You
Stand up for yourself and do not tolerate disrespect from others.
“Knowledge will give you power, but character respect.” ~ Bruce Lee
9. Take Responsibility for Your Actions
Own up to your mistakes and make amends. Responsibility is a key aspect of character.
“Our ability to handle life’s challenges is a measure of our strength of character.” ~ Les Brown
10. Don’t Try to Impress
True class does not seek to elevate itself by belittling others. It is already confident and does not need to show off.
“Class never tries to build itself up by tearing others down. Class is already up and need not strive to look better by making others look worse.” ~ Ann Landers
Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice at Oakwood Counseling Center in Valdosta. He is the author of How To Be A Great Partner and How To Argueproof Your Relationship. Read more of his articles at www. TheRelationshipSpecialist.com