The true test of character is what someone does when no one is looking.  How would you rate your character?  Are you prone to altering your behavior based on whether or not someone is watching?

Life is not measured by how much you can get away with.  Instead, the gauge is the content of your character.  Your character is independent of age, wealth, accomplishments, possessions, or who you know.

Components that make up your character are trust, honesty, integrity, respect, courtesy, and service.  People with character aren’t governed by fear of punishment should they be caught, but rather motivated by the desire to do the right thing.

Those with deficient character are constantly seeking to get away with whatever they can.  Their endeavors range from unethical to illegal.  They justify their behavior with statements such as “Everyone does it,” “If I don’t do it someone else will,” or “It’s the only way to get ahead.”

Sacrificing one’s character is not a shortcut to success.  Although these people may appear, at times, to benefit from their activities, it’s only an illusion.  In actuality, there is no upside.  At the very least, there is the constant need to look over one’s shoulder.  The fear of getting caught is a constant source of stress.  When someone is caught, the result is shattered lives.  And, people who lie, cheat, or steal are unhappy.

When someone takes advantage of others, they radiate a negative energy which invariably attracts exactly what they don’t want.  This results in the creation of a vicious cycle.  People who attract negative circumstances become bitter which leads to more negative behavior which in turn attracts more undesirable situations.

The headlines are filled with stories of how people with compromised character suffer.  The impact of their actions is far reaching, affecting loved ones, acquaintances, and strangers. 

Developing and maintaining sound character is the only route to success and happiness.  You may at times be criticized or ridiculed.  There may be pressure to “conform” to what others are doing.  Upholding your standards is not always easy but it is essential.

Deciding what is the proper behavior is fairly simple.  Imagine yourself on the receiving end of your actions.  How would you react?  If you wouldn’t feel good, then it’s not the right thing for you to do.  A person’s character suffers when they stop applying this test. 

Your character is the foundation upon which your entire life is built.  An unassailable character creates a solid foundation built into bedrock.  A foundation constructed on quicksand is the result of poor character.  It doesn’t take an engineer to understand which one will collapse.

How would you describe your foundation?  Are you proud of all you have done?  If not, why not?  What would you do differently?  Be honest in answering these questions.  You must accurately assess where you are before you can decide what changes are necessary.

Perhaps after some review, you determine your character needs some improvement.  You should begin making changes immediately, it’s never too late.  Character is built one step at a time.  There is no action that is too small or insignificant.

The motivation for developing a solid character should be because it’s the right thing to do, not for any ulterior purpose.  If there is some other intent, your efforts will not endure.  You don’t have to advertise how you act, or look for some payback.  The satisfaction of being at peace with yourself is all the reward you need.

NOW AVAILABLE:  "Dare to Live Without Limits," the book.  Visit www.BryanGolden.com or your bookstore. Bryan is a management consultant, motivational speaker, author, and adjunct professor. E-mail Bryan at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or write him c/o this paper.  2008 Bryan Golden

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