Does character matter?

“We live in a culture that teaches us to promote and advertise ourselves and to master the skills required for success, but that gives little encouragement to humility, sympathy, and honest self-confrontation, which are necessary for building character.” ~ David Brooks, The Road to Character 

Like others who grew up without social media, I wasn’t comfortable promoting myself — especially early in my career. Broadcasting my achievements in public felt awkward, even rude, and I still struggle with this issue. But today’s quote pushes beyond self-promotion and digs deeper.

Author David Brooks writes a lot about the importance of character. And I can’t help but wonder, given our country’s savage political climate, if character matters as much to people now.

Character matters to me — and it matters a lot. I choose my friends because I admire their character, not their success or their social connections. Likewise, I look for moral character in all leaders — and not just political leaders.

I look at the choices other people make, and how those choices reflect their character. Do they blame others or take responsibility? I watch how they react (or look away) when others behave badly. Likewise, I believe my friends and family should expect the same standards of me.

What does character mean to you? Do you think it matters? ~CL