9 Overlooked Character Traits that Parents Should Teach Their Kids

Our character helps to define who we are.  It greatly influences our daily interactions with others and directs many of our responses and reactions as we experience setbacks, challenges, opportunities, and accomplishments.

Good character is something we should all strive for.  It’s what makes people want to be around us. Sure, our warm, spirited, and delightful personalities are valuable assets – but character undoubtedly “defines us” more than our personalities do.

When we think of character, most of us imagine the “standard” traits that we’re all familiar with – respect, responsibility, patience, and honesty.

But what about the traits that aren’t at the forefront and that we might not always think of?

Well, here’s a list of “not-as-commonly-thought-of” character traits that I believe parents should not only possess – but that they should teach and nurture in their children:

Motivation

Motivation is defined as the process that initiates, guides and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. Motivated children are those that tend to find internal inspiration that brings about specific actions.

Moderation

Moderation means “observing reasonable limits.”  It is often described as “self-discipline” or “restraint.”  Children that demonstrate moderation are able to avoid excesses or extremes and don’t over-indulge.

Skepticism

Skepticism means that you maintain a questioning or doubtful attitude towards certain knowledge, facts, ideas, or beliefs.  Skepticism towards unfounded theories or “truths” is a healthy approach.

Flexibility

Flexibility means being adaptable or willing to adjust to new surroundings, ideas, or schedules without issue.  Children that are flexible can respond to change without it having a big impact on them.

Thankfulness. 

Thankfulness means expressing gratitude and/or being appreciative of things that others have given to you or that they have done for you. 

Tact.

Having tact means being “sensitive to what is proper and appropriate in dealing with others, including the ability to speak or act without offending.” It means being sensitive and using good judgement when speaking to others – and not being rude.

Humility.

Humility simply means “being humble.”  It means that you know your place in relation to others and that you do not glorify yourself or make yourself appear more important than others.

Mindfulness (being considerate).

Being mindful (or considerate) means that you are careful not to cause inconvenience or hurt to others.  It means that you are thoughtful, attentive, concerned, and accommodating.  It also means being helpful.

Authenticity

Authenticity, simply put, is the quality of being authentic.  It means being genuine and representing yourself as you truly are.  It means being true to who you are.  An authentic child is one that knows who he or she is and acts accordingly. 

So, there you have it – my list of “not-as-commonly-thought-of” character traits that I feel parents should instill in their children.  Imagine how different the world would be if we ALL possessed these traits!  Now, that’s a world I’d be okay with living in…