The Six C’s of Character

As you consider your goals, I hope you’ll think about working on your
character. After all, the best road to a better life is to be a better person, and
all of us can be better.

One of the best ways to do this is to focus on the Six C’s of Character:
conscience, courage, consideration, compassion, confidence, and control.

First, be a person of conscience. Listen to the inner voice that helps you
know right from wrong and urges you to do what is good and noble.

Second, be courageous. Confront the challenges and choices of your life
forthrightly. Make the tough decisions that need to be made and, above all,
maintain your integrity by doing what you know to be right even when it costs
more than you want to pay.

Third, be considerate. Be more deliberative, thoughtful, and attentive as to
how your words and actions will affect others, and reflect on your character.
Think ahead so you can avoid undesirable and undesired consequences.

Fourth, be compassionate. Demonstrate a genuine concern for the well being
of others. Be kinder and more charitable. Strive to understand more and
judge less.

Fifth, be confident in your capacity to overcome whatever difficulties come
your way with integrity and dignity. Don’t underestimate your resiliency.
Resolve to persist until you prevail.

Sixth, be in control of your emotions, appetites, and urges that tempt you
to compromise your principles or sacrifice long-term goals for short-term
indulgences.

Remember, your character is your destiny.

-- Michael Josephson