The True Test of Character is Admitting When You Are in Error

The true test of character is admitting when you're in error. That is, if you make a mistake, admitting it and working through the problem is part of being human. However, if you lie, or keep quiet about flaws - even minor ones, then that's a different matter. For example, there was a commercial the other day about a man who was having trouble with his company's credit card system. He was relying on his ability to lie so that he could continue using the card. His downfall came when he was caught in the lie.

So, let's assume your character is honest, but for whatever reason you've developed a little more 'white lie' detector than usual and decided to tell a lie to avoid trouble. Now, what's the most truthful thing you can say? If your character is the CEO of a large corporation that makes millions of dollars a year, saying you don't know how to run the company isn't going to get you very far, no matter how much corporate white lies you tell. But saying you don't know how to fix the problem in your company, even if you don't, is truthful, because you're the boss and the company can't be fixed without you.

So, what's the true test of character when it comes to leadership? Well, it's not just about telling the truth, but about doing the right thing. This principle is at the core of what separates the strong men from the weak, the honorable from those who only think they can get away with a dishonest deed. Even one small thing such as saving a customer's life or helping a co-worker may earn you a spot in the Hall of Fame of Leadership, while cheating on your partner, family, or employee would undoubtedly doom you to the Hall of Fame of Lying. Now don't think you're getting away with it by saying one thing is the wrong thing when it's really just the right thing.

So, if you want to make a true impression on your superiors and peers, you need to do the things they expect of you, but you also have to say something that will make them smile. After all, the best kind of test is one you don't have to take. So long as you know there's a test, then you are prepared. The key to making this test worthwhile is taking your time and truly thinking through how you'll answer the questions.

For example, what's your take on racial discrimination? Or on sex-based crimes? Do you believe in giving people their rights? Do you think it's okay to cheat on your partner? These are all good questions and deserve honest answers, but when it comes down to it, you simply can't say "oh, but I only do those things if someone else gets hurt" because then you're lying.

However, when you choose to stand up for yourself when others would view you as weak or submissive, then you display the character trait of strength. In fact, you display the most powerful character trait of all, which is your ability to do the right thing even when you don't want to or think you need to. So, this is your true test of character. If you can say yes to that question with conviction, then you've passed the test. Now it's up to you to keep on going and make your dreams come true.