Character: Sustaining Resolution Beyond Momentary Excitement
Created at: July 28, 2025
Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. — Cavett Robert
Defining True Character
Cavett Robert’s quote challenges us to reconsider the essence of character—not as a fleeting surge of motivation, but as the steadfast ability to uphold a commitment over time. While many of us are inspired in the heat of a moment, genuine character is revealed in the quiet perseverance that follows. This insight shifts our focus from impressive beginnings to consistent follow-through.
The Challenge of Commitment Over Time
As the initial fervor wanes, maintaining a good resolution becomes increasingly difficult. This echoes Aesop’s fable of the Tortoise and the Hare, where steady progress, not initial speed, secures victory. Similarly, resolutions—be they personal or professional—require ongoing determination, especially when the early excitement fades and obstacles arise.
Historical Examples of Enduring Character
History is replete with figures who embodied this principle. Abraham Lincoln’s journey, for example, was marked by repeated setbacks and public failures, yet he persisted in his commitment to his ideals and the preservation of the Union. His capacity to continue long after applause subsided defined his exceptional character, as biographer Doris Kearns Goodwin highlights in ‘Team of Rivals’.
Psychological Perspectives on Self-Discipline
From a psychological standpoint, self-discipline plays a pivotal role in sustaining resolutions. Studies by psychologist Walter Mischel on delayed gratification—most notably the Stanford marshmallow experiment—illustrated that those who resist short-term temptation in favor of long-term goals tend to achieve greater success. This ability to persevere without external encouragement aligns closely with Robert’s definition of character.
Cultivating Character in Everyday Life
Bringing this ideal into daily practice, we can nurture character by setting realistic goals, establishing routines, and seeking accountability. Consistency, rather than dramatic acts, often distinguishes those who fulfill their resolutions from those who abandon them. In this way, character becomes less about heroic moments and more about everyday choices that honor our initial intent long after the fanfare dissipates.