Assessing Character: The Cardinal Virtues

How do we know if we are on the right path?

Here are questions to ask yourself to measure possession of each of the virtues. You can answer on a scale ranging from “not at all”(1) to “sometimes”(2) to “frequently, if not always”(3)

Fortitude. The best leaders are courageous and persistent.

· Would you risk your job rather than do something you knew was wrong?

· Can you remain strong in the face of adversity?

· Would you put your job on the line to do the right thing?

Prudence. Also known as wisdom, is being able to see different perspectives and gathering evidence before making decisions or moving ahead.

· Do you make the right decision at the right time in the right way?

· Do you spend time consulting with others to determine which decision is best for everyone involved?

· Do you learn from past experience and make an effort to always improve in the future?

Temperance. Controlling emotions and appetites — moderation in all things.

· Are you able to regulate your personal desires to make the best decisions for the group or organization as a whole?

· Are you more concerned with the good of the collective than accumulating material wealth?

· Would you not allow the desire for promotion to interfere with you doing the right thing?

Justice. Fairness

· Do you give credit to others when credit is due?

· Do you deal with others in a fair and balanced manner?

· Would you make promotion decisions based on a candidate’s merits, not on your feelings for them?

For Development: Developing character begins with valid assessment — being honest with oneself about these important virtues. Realize that being a good leader is hard work.