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Relationships; Character Matters 2

Last week, we started a discussion on six pillars of character we must cultivate and build to have successful relationships. I hope you've started building your character on the three pillars discussed, which includes Trustworthiness, Respect and Caring. If you missed last Saturday's edition, just read it up quickly. Today, we shall be considering the remaining three pillars of character.


4. RESPONSIBILITY
Many people run away from various forms of responsibility. But for a relationship that will work, both parties must be willing to take various necessary responsibilities that will propel the relationship forward. You must know and do your duty, and at the same time acknowledge and meet your legal (if you are married, or in a contractual relationship)  and moral obligations. Being responsible also requires that you are accountable.
Accountability demands that you accept responsibility for the consequences of your choices, not only for what you do but what you don’t do. It also requires that you think about consequences on yourself and others before you act and at the same time think long-term. Also, do what you can do to make things better and set a good example. A responsible person doesn't look the other way when he/she can make a difference and doesn't make excuses or blame others.
Being Responsible also demands that you pursue excellence. You do your best, you persevere and don’t quit. In pursuing excellence, you must be prepared, be diligent and work hard. When opportunity meet with preparation success is birthed. Always, ensure that you make all you do worthy of pride.
Self-Control is another attribute of a responsible person. You must take charge of your own life, set realistic goals and keep a positive outlook. You must learn to be prudent and be self-disciplined with your health,  emotions, time and money. Ensure you are rational, that is, act out of reason not anger, revenge or fear. You should know the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do. Finally, be self-reliant; manage your life so you are not dependent on others and pay your own way whenever you can.


5. FAIRNESS
How many times have you heard the statement, it's not fair? Once? Thrice? I guess many times. And in fact, people could have treated you unfairly or perhaps you had treated people unfairly too. What does it mean to be fair? First, it means to be just, to treat people equally and make decisions without favouritism or prejudice. Generally speaking, being fair requires that while imposing punishment, you are  sure the consequences for wrongdoing are consistent, certain and  proportional (not too harsh or lenient) And of course you should know that punishment is not in the dictionary of relationship. You must not take more than your fair share neither should you take advantage of or blame the other party unfairly.
Fairness demands you exercise openness. Ensure an open-mind and be impartial. You should consider what people have to say before you decide. It requires that you be careful, get the facts, including opposing viewpoints, before making decisions.


6. CITIZENSHIP
The relationships you keep affects how you act as a citizen and the kind of citizen you are affects your relationships. Therefore, a call to be a good citizen. Care about and pursue the common good of where you are. Be a good neighbour to those around you. Volunteer and help your school, church, organisation, community and nation to be better. Take leadership positions and be a good leader. Report wrong doing and don't be involve in same. Pay your tax. Respect Authority and the Law. Play by the rules. Obey your parents, teachers, mentors, leaders and others who have been given authority over you. Give honour to whom honour is due. Be democratic.


Conclusively, all of us most understand that charisma, packaging and reputation might get us many wonderful relationships but only character will help us keep them. Be the kind of person that kind people like and want to be like. Resolve to be a man or woman of character and virtue, that when others come in contact with declare 'have met a man/woman like an angel'
Good Character makes you to experience heaven on earth relationship experiences. Enjoy.

©theINSIGHT 2015

Kindly, drop your comments, contributions and observations.



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