The phrase “build character that others will admire” speaks a sad oxymoron. The elements of the phrase contradict one another since character excludes such motivation.

Character Defined

Character consists of doing what is right, no matter what. Such a definition may seem too simple, but simple words often convey truth most clearly. Character builds on convictions rooted in moral absolutes. Those convictions remain solid, regardless of who is watching or listening.

Attempt to build character that others will admire and you destroy the solidity of character. Nevertheless, you can build character that others will appreciate .

The Right Stuff

Consider just three of the necessary or ideal qualities of character in the world of business.

Integrity leads the list. Business demands men and women whose consistency shows in every situation. What you see today, you will see a year from today. What the boss sees matches what every employee sees. All of your actions fall from the same tree – and boost your career.
Honesty follows on the heels of integrity. Honorable business leaders long for personnel honesty. Those who reject every attempt to deceive, even though the deception seems small or momentary, are thrusting a foot up the career ladder.
Self-Control oils the inter-personal machinery of any company, making it run smoothly and efficiently. Controlling one’s time, work ethic, speech, anger, etc. commends an employee to the company leadership. Such commendation gives a hand up to the next career level.

As The Economiststated in editorial praise of the American process: “… Anyone deficient will be found out: anyone with the right stuff has a chance to shine.” Character builders build the right stuff.

The How-To of Building Character

The limits of this article allow only a preview of how to build character, but this will get you started.

Assessment begins the work. Take an honest look at your life. Enlist the aid of a trusted friend or family member. Write out a list of qualities you see in yourself that match those on a reputable list of character traits. Assess their current degree of strength or weakness in your life.
Focus your attention on one feeble or missing trait. Look back over your list, consciously choosing the first trait you want to build. Alternatively, look at a character program that leads you from one trait to another, and focus on the first trait presented.
Target that trait for building. Make it a goal. A goal requires that you truly desire to build that trait. Next, you set a specific calendar date by which that trait will be active consistently in your daily life.
Study the trait until you can clearly define it and understand how to develop it.
Motivation for building that specific trait must be determined. A desire to build character that others will admire fails to meet the need. Write a description of how life will change when you possess this trait. Look specifically at how your career will change.
Role models who demonstrate the trait will prove helpful. We catch character more quickly than we learn character. Look for one or more individuals who consistently exercise your focus trait.
Act ! A character trait that exists only in the understanding has no life. True character acts. Think carefully first. Then exert conscious effort toward exercising that trait in every area of your life.
Consequences will follow every action, so prepare to accept them. Blame only yourself for a lack of character. Your power and ability chose, and you must accept the consequences of your choice.
Effort yields success when you apply that effort consistently and positively. Do whatever it takes. Use charts, spreadsheets, journals or any other legitimate tool to keep yourself on track.

Conclusion

You can build character that others will appreciate if you do the necessary work. Then, while others’ character deficiencies tarnish their value, the right stuff of your character will make you shine.