Your Character

Welcome to my weekly newsletter.

Recently I’ve been reading Fyodor Dostoevsky. I’m reading two of his books at the moment—The House of the Dead and Crime and Punishment.

Just finished 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson.

The reason I mention these books is because a common thread runs through these books—CHARACTER.

Situations good or bad, innocent or evil the constant is you.

In The House of the Dead in extreme conditions the character of the prisoners is evident. Some are untrustworthy, evil, or both. However, some of the prisoners are very friendly, helpful, intelligent, and kind.

One of Peterson’s rules, Rule 8, is to never lie to yourself or others. Why, because then you start to get used to the receipt and what then do you truly believe and can you believe anything you say? The rots your character from the inside out.

Your character is tested regularly. Are the decisions you make in line with your core values? Do you have the 4 virtues in your character -

WISDOM, COURAGE, TEMPERANCE, JUSTICE

You say and hear these phrases - ‘dodgy character’, ‘strange character’, ‘strong character’ to name a few. Phrases to sum up your behaviour and actions.

Being a good person takes sacrifice, hard work, patience, and a growth mindset. It’s worthwhile to be a good character so it takes work.

Lottery winners struggle mentally with their new lives because it took no effort or talent to gain wealth. A poisoned chalice for many.

Be self-critical but speak kindly with positive words to yourself. Look at your character with an open mind.

Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one.

• Marcus Aurelius

I wish you all the best always ❤️

Tony

Wise Philosophy