The Nature of Character in a Man

Who are you? And does it matter? This is something that is not talked about much. So let's explore it a bit here.

To some extent, who you are is a function of your character. The role of character in later life may be very important because, as they say, "aging is not for sissies". 

Character in a man is best understood as the aggregate of persistent moral qualities, intentions, and behavioral tendencies that define his real nature and guide his actions.

It's about the kind of person he is on the inside, which in turn influences how he interacts with the world and those around him. 

How do you stack up in terms of character? How are you responding to life's challenges?

And what can you teach the younger generation about character? Or lead by example? It's clear that many younger men are in need of mentors and guidance. 

While character is an internal attribute, it is primarily known through observable actions and reactions to life's challenges. These behaviors are influenced by both inherited traits and acquired habits, shaped by upbringing, environment, and personal choices 

A man of strong character is likely to have the following attributes:

• Integrity and Honesty: At the core of good character lies integrity – the ability to act in alignment with one's values, even when faced with difficult choices. Honesty, as a part of integrity, is crucial for building trust and transparent relationships.
• Responsibility and Accountability: A man of character takes ownership of his actions and accepts the consequences, whether positive or negative. This includes admitting mistakes and making amends when necessary.
• Respect and Empathy: Respecting others, regardless of their background or beliefs, is fundamental to good character. This translates to active listening, acknowledging different perspectives, and treating others with dignity and consideration. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, is also vital for building strong relationships and a supportive community.
• Courage and Resilience: A man of character demonstrates courage by facing challenges and adversities head-on, even in the presence of fear. He displays resilience by persisting through difficulties, seeing setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Self-Control and Discipline: The ability to manage impulses and desires, exercising self-control and making thoughtful choices is an important aspect of character. It reflects a person's dominion over his actions and ability to live by principles rather than simply being driven by desires.
• Loyalty and Commitment: A man of character is loyal to his loved ones and committed to his relationships. He is dependable, keeps his word, and stands by his partner (if he has one) through both triumphs and challenges, fostering a sense of security and trust within the relationship.
• Humility: While confidence is important, a man of character also possesses humility, acknowledging his imperfections and recognizing that he is not superior to others. This fosters open-mindedness, approachability, and the ability to learn and grow from experiences and from others. 
• Self-Determination and Development: Character is not fixed; it develops through deliberate cultivation of virtues and self-reflection. Social, cultural, and philosophical traditions emphasize the role of willpower, self-cultivation, and rational principles in forming a strong moral character 

In essence, a man's character is revealed through his consistent actions and behaviors, especially in situations that test his values and integrity. It's a continuous journey of self-improvement and cultivating traits that make him a responsible, compassionate, and admirable individual in all areas of life. 

Food for thought, eh?

References

1. Opatha, H. Individual Character: A Perspective. 2013; 1.
2. Yin, W. On Modern Character and Ability of Man from the Angle of Sociopsychology. Tangdu Journal. 2002
3. Qian, Y. On Mencius' Ideal Character and Self-cultivation. Journal of Yangzhou University. 2003
4. Ali, Y. Human nature and his potentialities attributes towards virtue and morality. 2016
5. Yanovsky, M., Borisov, N., & Kuznetsov, Y. About the Psychological Mechanisms that Create a Person's Character. Психология и Психотехника. 2022
6. Saduša, F. Personality, temperament and character in Erich Fromm's theory. . 2012; 2012.
7. S., E. Human Character. Nature. 1923; 111.
8. Sullivan, R. An Introduction to Kant's Ethics: Moral Character. 1994
9. D., F. Inheritance of Psychical and Physical Characters in Man. Nature. 1904; 70.
10. Louden, R. Immanuel Kant: Anthropology from a Pragmatic Point of View: The character of the peoples. . 2006
11. Xiang-Le, Z. Searching Mencius and Xunzi's Human Nature View and the Education Methodology. 2005
12. Hutton, E. What is Meant by Personality. British Journal of Psychiatry. 1945; 91.

The mission of of seattleseniormen.com and greenwoodmensgroup.com is to provide a supportive environment where men from diverse backgrounds can foster camaraderie, develop friendships, share wisdom, enrich one another's lives -- and contribute to all Seattle communities, including Greenwood, Ballard, Crown Hill, Fremont, Green Lake, Licton Springs, Loyal Heights, Magnolia, Phinney Ridge, Ravenna, Sunset Hill, Wallingford, Wedgwood, Whittier Heights and beyond.

See our Disclaimer