We all have different mindsets, perspectives, and ways to approach life. We are unique human beings, there isn’t another you or another me in the world. While we may have similarities in our way of thinking and our way of doing things, we certainly possess defined #character traits that make us unique, uniquely good or not so good.
We may have inherited character traits from our parents. In any case, our overall character has developed through our upbringing, environment, and life experiences. We are wired with a mix of positive, and not so positive, character traits. This shows us that we are perfectly imperfect, and it’s okay; we can live with it and handle it effectively.
Being confident, respectful, helpful, creative, compassionate, courageous, and dependable are considered positive character traits. Conceited, foolish, dishonest, hateful, impolite, grouchy, and argumentative are considered negative character traits. Science tells us that there are character traits that we are born with and are part of our DNA. Fortunately, we can learn and shape our character if that’s something we desire.
We have strengths and we have flaws.
We are knowledgeable, though we don’t know it all. In fact, the more we learn and acquire new knowledge, the more we realize the little that we know, and it’s totally fine. We don’t have to know it all. If fact, it’s clear that it’s not possible to know it all. Becoming an “expert” on something represents only the tip of an iceberg of a wealth of knowledge, complexities, and discoveries to make.
“Our goal in life is not about becoming flawless, it’s about becoming better.”
We learn from what went right and what went wrong. Furthermore, we are continuously faced with opportunities and challenges, and unexpected and uncertain situations, too; and through it all, our character strengthens or weakens.
Once we recognize and accept that it’s okay not to be okay at times, we are less hard on ourselves and we also stop beating ourselves up. After all, we are not in competition with the world, we are in competition with our own selves.
We don’t have to have it all, know it all, and be it all to be happy and successful. The world entices us to pursue more and more and to be less and less. The world measures the value of a person in a materialistic way. Look around, values have almost disappeared. The U.S. has become one the rudest nations in the world. What does this tell us? Where is this taking us as a human society?
“We don’t have to have it all, know it all, and be it all to be happy and successful.”
More than ever, we need to stand up for what we believe in, letting our good character shine through, and not allowing ourselves to be carried away with what’s only popular because what’s popular may not be right.
It’s okay no to be the smartest and most likeable person in the room. It’s okay to not be liked by everyone. It’s okay not to like everyone. It’s okay not to do everything that the world portrays as success. What makes us great human beings is our ability to respond to people and situations in a respectful manner, not acting on own fleeting emotions.
“Let your character make you, not break you. This is how you thrive.”
We don’t have to like certain people in order to respect them. Respect is a human right and a character trait. We don’t have to disrespect others just because we don’t agree with them or because they don’t agree with us. We can be respectful in all circumstances.
Respecting ourselves and respecting others is part of the Golden Rule. Let’s not fall in the destructive cycle of responding to disrespect with more disrespect. Respect makes a positive difference in our lives, in the lives of others, and in the world.
“Respect allows you walk with you head held up, not because you are perfect, it’s because you are better and uniquely you.”
If you find this article valuable, you may also like “Best Advice: Respect People”
“If you treat people right they will treat you right … ninety percent of the time.” Franklin D. Roosevelt
Other Articles by Ivette K. Caballero
Please join the conversation by sharing your thoughts about character and respect. Thank you! @IvetteKCM
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