Character Qualities
Character First! uses these concepts as the foundation for leadership development—from elementary schools to national retailers.
Learn more about each trait in our online library or contact us for training and resources that fit your needs.
| Alertness
Being aware of what is taking place around me so I can have the right responses AttentivenessShowing the worth of a person or task by giving my undivided concentration AvailabilityMaking my own schedule and priorities secondary to the wishes of those I serve BenevolenceRealizing that true happiness does not depend on material conditions BoldnessConfidence that what I have to say or do is true, right, and just CautiousnessKnowing how important right timing is in accomplishing right actions CompassionInvesting whatever is necessary to heal the hurts of others ContentmentRealizing that true happiness does not depend on material conditions CreativityApproaching a need, a task, or an idea from a new perspective DecisivenessThe ability to recognize key factors and finalize difficult decisions DeferenceLimiting my freedom so I do not offend the tastes of those around me DependabilityFulfilling what I consented to do, even if it means unexpected sacrifice DeterminationPurposing to accomplish right goals at the right time, regardless of the opposition DiligenceInvesting my time and energy to complete each task assigned to me DiscernmentUnderstanding the deeper reasons why things happen DiscretionRecognizing and avoiding words, actions, and attitudes that could bring undesirable consequences EnduranceThe inward strength to withstand stress and do my best |
Enthusiasm
Expressing joy in each task as I give it my best effort FaithConfidence that actions rooted in good character will yield the best outcome, even when I cannot see how FlexibilityWillingness to change plans or ideas without getting upset ForgivenessClearing the record of those who have wronged me and not holding a grudge GenerosityCarefully managing my resources so I can freely give to those in need GentlenessShowing consideration and personal concern for others GratefulnessLetting others know by my words and actions how they have benefited my life HonorRespecting others because of their worth as human beings HospitalityCheerfully sharing food, shelter, or conversation to benefit others HumilityAcknowledging that achievement results from the investment of others in my life InitiativeRecognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it JoyfulnessMaintaining a good attitude, even when faced with unpleasant conditions JusticeTaking personal responsibility to uphold what is pure, right, and true LoyaltyUsing difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to those I serve MeeknessYielding my personal rights and expectations with a desire to serve ObedienceQuickly and cheerfully carrying out the direction of those who are responsible for me OrderlinessArranging myself and my surroundings to achieve greater efficiency |
Patience
Accepting a difficult situation without giving a deadline to remove it PersuasivenessGuiding vital truths around another's mental roadblocks PunctualityShowing esteem for others by doing the right thing at the right time ResourcefulnessFinding practical uses for that which others would overlook or discard ResponsibilityKnowing and doing what is expected of me SecurityStructuring my life around that which cannot be destroyed or taken away Self-ControlRejecting wrong desires and doing what is right SensitivityPerceiving the true attitudes and emotions of those around me SincerityEagerness to do what is right with transparent motives ThoroughnessKnowing what factors will diminish the effectiveness of my work or words if neglected ThriftinessAllowing myself and others to spend only what is necessary ToleranceRealizing that everyone is at varying levels of character development TruthfulnessEarning future trust by accurately reporting past facts VirtueThe moral excellence evident in my life as I consistently do what is right WisdomSeeing and responding to life situations from a perspective that transcends my current circumstances |
