Building Character

Chapter 2

Recognizing Character

Character – combination of traits that show strong ethical principals and maturity

Ethical principals – standards for right and wrong behavior (public and private behavior)

Role models – people who set a positive example

Values and Character

Values – beliefs and ideas about what is important

Character based on set of values you’ve learned since childhood

Guide you in everyday choices

Show in what and how you say things

How you spend money

Show what you’re willing to stand up for

Values, cont.

Learned values

Those things that are learned from an indirect source (friends, family, school)

Mass media usually show unacceptable behaviors

Shared values

Universal values – those that are shared all over the world, the “glue” to society

Universal values:

Caring

Fairness

Honesty

Integrity

Respect

Responsibility

Self-discipline

Trustworthiness

Personal Responsibility

“Let me help” “I’ll do it” – take charge

“I’m sorry, I’ll try better next time.” - They do not place blame on others

Familial responsibility – those that our families place a significance on

Citizenship

How you handle your responsibilities as a citizen

Citizen – a member of a community such as a school, city or town, or country

Takes training to be a good citizen

Two keys:

Caring for the greater good of individuals

Acting on your concerns

Learn to make a difference:

VOLUNTEER pg 45

BE A GOOD LISTENER

Listening is the most important part of character

Steps:

Eliminate interior and exterior distractions

Keep a positive attitude

Maintain objectivity

Give nonverbal feedback

Repeat the message to yourself in your own words

Let the speaker FINISH

Taking Responsible

Actions

Chapter 3

Making Responsible Decisions

Automatic decisions

Complicated decisions

Decision Making – act of making a choice

Helps you achieve personal goals

Helps plan for the future

Continuous process to use problem solving and decision making skills

What influences decisions?

Family

Culture

Friends

Values

Resources

Demographics

Needs

Wants

Society

Learning from Good Decisions

Improved Self-esteem

Increased respect from people around you

Independence shows responsibility

Considering Consequences

Minor vs major

Personal decisions ma alter the direction in your life

Responsible Leadership

Leader – person who has influence over and guides a group

Groups must have leaders and followers

Leadership – ability to lead

Leadership Skills

Management

Motivation

Communication

Problem-solving

Answer: Seldom –S, Often –O , Always - ALeadership Test!!!

Trustworthiness

I am honest.

I do not deceive, cheat, or steal.

I do what I say I’ll do.

I have the courage to do the right thing.

I build a good reputation.

I stand by my family, friends, and country.

Respect

I treat others with respect and follow the “Golden Rule.”

I am tolerant of differences.

I use good manners, not bad language.

I am considerate of others’ feelings.

I do not threaten, hit, or hurt anyone.

I deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements.

Responsibility

I do what I am supposed to do.

I persevere (I keep on trying).

I always do my best.

I use self-control. I am self-disciplined.

I think about consequences before I act.

I am accountable for my choices.

Fairness

I play by the rules.

I take turns and share.

I am open-minded. I listen to others.

I do not take advantage of others.

I do not blame others carelessly.

Caring

I am kind.

I am compassionate and show I care.

I express gratitude.

I forgive others.

I help people in need.

Citizenship

I do my share to make my school and community better.

I cooperate.

I stay informed.

I am a good neighbor.

I obey laws and rules.

I respect authority.

I protect the environment.

How do you rate?

Count how many always you chose:

0-15 always: Character counts for leadership success. Now’s the time to adopt positive actions and attitudes.

15-30 always: You know what it takes to be a person of good character. Keep trying to “do the right thing” every time.

30-35 always: Your good character will take you far. Keep at it!

Leadership Poster

Define the word leader

Define the word leadership

Include 20 skills that a POSITIVE leader must have to be successful

On the back – list 5 things that “kills” a good leader

Add your name