“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

—Helen Keller, 20th Century American author, disability rights advocate, political activist

Image from Anazon

Life is very different from traditional schooling in that it gives us the test first and then we (hopefully) learn the lesson.

What character-building experiences and trials has life presented you over the past year?

How has your soul been strengthened?

Where have your ambitions been inspired, leading you toward new levels of achievement and success?

EXERCISE:

Please pick up a copy of The Road to Character by David Brooks to challenge yourself to re-balance the scales between the focus on external success (“resume virtues”) and your core principles.