Character, Identity and Your Therapist


            I've been thinking about character lately. We sometimes use the term loosely as in "that guy is a character". What I mean is the more serious use of the term as in "she has character". Right now, I'd say Character has something to do with striking a balance between being an individual and a member of a larger group. I'd also say as I sit here this morning that character has to do with remaining true to one's identity, especially when tempted by circumstances or contradictory feelings to act out of character. John Wooden (2005) wrote about the difference between character and reputation. He said reputation is what others think about you; however, "character is what you really are." (p. 46)

            Wouldn't it be nice to grow in character? That is, get in greater touch with who you really are -- your "true self" as Winnicott (1960) said? It's not about behavioral modification. It's about the heart. This is what your therapist helps you to do. 

References

Winnicott, D. W. (1960). Ego distortion in terms of true and false self. In D. W. Winnicott (Ed.), The maturational process and the facilitating environment (pp. 139-151). London: Hogarth Press.

Wooden, J. & Carty, J. (2005). Coach Wooden's pyramid of success. Grand Rapids, MI: Revell.

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