What Are Character Traits?
One way to better understand character traits is to define three closely related ideals: core values, personality traits and character traits.
Though often used interchangeably, these terms have distinct definitions:
Core values (a.k.a personal values) are theoretical ideals of thought, word or deed;
Personality traits describe one’s public, external behaviour; and
Character traits describe one’s private, internal compass.
The main focus of this guide is building good character traits. To understand why it’s a priority, let’s dive deeper.
Core Values vs. Personality and Character Traits
I don’t talk much about core values with my clients. Here’s why:
Values describe ideas;
Traits describe actions; and
Actions speak louder than abstract ideas.
Anyone can claim or aspire to “tolerance” or “equality.” But it’s not until those values are expressed through actions that they become traits. And it’s not until they become traits that they impact you and the people around.
When you focus on values, there’s a tendency to talk a lot, then “set and forget.” You decide to be “kind,” “generous” and “loving.” You may even write those words down. But until you change how you act them out when it matters, core values are no more than ideas.
That’s why here, we focus on character traits. Obsessing over values is like getting distracted by the half-way line when your gaze should be fixed on the end-zone.
Personality Traits vs. Character Traits
The second important distinction is between personality traits and character traits.
We all know people whose appearances don’t always match their “true colours.” Who care more about being seen as “modest,” “selfless” or “thoughtful” than about being those things. Who put on good acts but betray their heart under pressure.
This is the essential division between personality traits and character traits. Personality traits describe what you do, character traits describe who you are.
When the stakes are high or your ability to pretend is low, the character always wins.
Character Traits Definition
That’s why I focus on character traits. I’m not here to teach you to say pretty words or become a good actor. The goal is to help you redefine the core of your being.
Core values are theoretical ideas, positive personality traits can be simulated but positive character traits go right to the heart of us. They’re deep-seated, long-term patterns of action, reaction and compromise that become hard to fake when we’re stressed out or tired.