Perspectives On Aging
The Relevance of Character
When we were children, many decades ago, our parents and teachers used to place much emphasis on intelligence and hard work as crucial elements for success in life. About intelligence, there was not much to be done, as it is mainly the product of our genetic endowment, although as we now know it can be improved by practice and training the same way as athletic performance.
But nothing was said about character, that human condition so important for happiness and success. After having lived a rather long life, I have now arrived at the conclusion that it is perhaps the most important component of all. It is character that gives us the strength to overcome vanity and remain humble in victory. To not give up under stress. To persevere in the pursuit of our goals. To resist the temptation of immediate gratification, allowing us to follow the rules of ethics and morality and grow -- not only in material accomplishments, but also in the spiritual realm -- and to base our conduct in principles that are not for sale.
Character is mainly the result of our development. We are all born with a certain temperament, genetic in origin, which inclines us in certain directions that are not always healthy. But through environmental circumstances, education and willpower, it can be channeled in a constructive pathway. It is like a wild horse in need of being tamed.
We are all endowed with personality traits that define the kind of person we are. Some are positive and allow us to live a constructive life, while others are undesirable and exert a negative influence. All are available to conscious scrutiny, and as such can be changed at will. We do have power over them. They are not fixed traits beyond our control. Because they have been with us for a long time, they often feel an intrinsic part of the self, and as such not amenable to change. This is not the case.
When I reflect on the characteristics of the successful people I have come to know throughout my life, a strong character is their common denominator. A certain degree of intelligence is necessary, but it is character that separates the outstanding from the average. §
Dr. Carlos Muniz is a retired psychiatrist from Gainesville. He may be contacted through the editor at editor@towerpublications.com
