Character Counts

My daughter’s 7th grade class is thinking about character–what it is, how it is created, and whether it can be shaped.

For the record, the latest social science says that the 7 character traits most linked to success and happiness are:

–Optimism (I struggle with this one; I know too much)

–Gratitude (I try, I try)

–Social Intelligence (I’m not exactly sure what this is but I think I have it)

–Curiosity (Definitely)

–Self-Control (Usually)

–Enthusiasm (Sometimes)

–Grit (Mine is more like stubborness, but I think that counts)

My daughter watched this 8-minute video, which is a beautiful and artfully crafted homage to the idea that developing good character traits, and appreciating good character traits in others, is a stupendous force for good. It really makes me want to keep trying to be a better person.

(It also had the virtue of introducing me to the clever and captivating work of Tiffany Schlain and her Moxie Institute).