| Dear John, My friend John Maxwell, one of the top leadership authorities in America, says that most people would rather work on their personality than on their character. It’s a profound statement, and he’s absolutely right. Perhaps that is because personality development involves learning new conversational skills and style, or developing a speaking ability. It brings more immediate rewards, is less demanding and — in most cases — involves little sacrifice on our part. The development of character is considerably more difficult, and often involves making changes that are at least temporarily uncomfortable and often very demanding. The changing of habits is always a challenging procedure. The development of virtues also requires time, because it means we must discipline some of our appetites and passions. Keeping promises and being sensitive to the feelings and convictions of others is not something that most of us do naturally. We have to work at it. Character development is the best indication of maturity. Yes, it is more difficult to develop character than it is personality and yes, it's true that the rewards are not as immediate. However, the long-term rewards are infinitely greater. To value oneself is important, but to be able at the same time to subordinate yourself to higher purposes and principles is the paradoxical essence of highest humanity, and it is the foundation for effective leadership. I believe I'm safe in saying that in today's world, the need for character and leadership outweighs the need for more people with more personality. Fortunately, when you develop the character, the personality develops far more easily and more naturally. You were Born to Win, so go ahead and Live to Win, Tom PS - Quote of the Day: “Ability can take you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.” — Zig ZIglar | 