Tag: Character

Character

~ Tim Pritchett ~ 1 Comment

|Character|
Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
John Wooden

I can think back to the times that I confused reputation for character. Words matter, especially when it comes to character. 

It’s easy to focus on reputation – it’s how others see us. When we do well, and people appreciate us or the thing we did, that feels great. But reputation is just a shadow that is shaped by the light of our actions and words. It can shift with perspective and fade with time. Our reputation, hopefully, is a reflection of what is found in our character. Character is our unshakable core. It’s who we are – truly beyond the opinions and judgments of others.

When life goes sideways, the day is hard, the results aren’t good, the weight is heavy, our reputation is an insufficient refuge. But character is where we find strength and resilience. There is a word in the Greek language that I love – “Poiema,” which is where we derive our words “poem” and “poetry.” Beauty and artistry. Your character includes the beauty and artistry of integrity, authenticity, resilience, clarity, purpose… these are the steady ground on which you stand. Your character is forged and strengthened through hardships, integrity, and perseverance.

By prioritizing and investing in your character, you cultivate authenticity. Authenticity is a key ingredient in peace.  Circumstances will test you. Others may disappoint you. But your character remains a sanctuary to find clarity and purpose.

What matters most is not the shadow that is cast, but the substance – the beauty and artistry within. Focus on who you are and how you act when no one is watching. Let the shadow take care of itself.

Be Encouraged.

Moments

~ Tim Pritchett ~ 1 Comment

|Moments|
If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.
Maria Edgeworth

You are not defined by one moment – good or bad. Life…your character, is built on the consistent actions we take each day—consistency over time. Our habits, those seemingly insignificant choices (often that very few, if anyone else sees but you), lay the foundation for who we become.

James Clear, in his book Atomic Habits, brilliantly and succinctly puts it this way:

Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity. This is one reason why meaningful change does not require radical change.

Small habits can make a meaningful difference by providing evidence of a new identity. And if a change is meaningful, it actually is big. That’s the paradox of making small improvements.

So, when we take care of the “little things” – the moments, we are set in a direction to improve and grow as needed. When we neglect the “little things” – the moments, we’re also set in a direction. However, it probably does not end up where or how we’d like.

Gratitude plays a pivotal role in our personal growth journey. When we shift our focus from what we lack to the blessings, abilities, and gifts we already possess, routine moments transform into instances of growth and fulfillment. Gratitude not only enhances our perspective but also makes it easier to embrace healthy habits and sustain them.

By consistently showing up for the “little things,” coupled with gratitude, we shape tomorrow one day at a time. Trust the small, intentional actions and see how they lead you to grow. A successful life isn’t dependent on big breakthroughs. It’s about embracing today’s opportunities by showing up to grow, learn, and connect. Tending to the “little things” is key to leading us to a life with meaning and purpose.

Be Encouraged.