Qualities/Potential –
Every character trait is unique in the way they radiate and the types of ripples they can make. The potential for all traits to shine rests dormant in every person. For a trait to evolve and grow, we must explore both Flexing and Contracting the trait, in the same way muscles are formed. When a trait is Flexed and Contracted resourcefully, within harmonious Boundaries, this is referred to as swinging the Evolution Pendulum and in the process, we make meaningful contributions that help ourselves and others grow. This experience helps us find balance, which creates a state of flow and over many cycles of exploration this trait can become a Thriving part of our character.
Challenge –
Shadows bring contrast and depth to a perspective in the same way we view a landscape, and the same can be said about character. In the process of experiencing challenge, we discover through strain what are the unresourceful and conflicting aspects of a character trait and how to balance them into thriving states.
Thriving –
Like a pendulum, our character strengths will oscillate naturally to provide growth and evolution until with find balance and acceptance for the entirety of this character aspect in ourselves. When one finds balance and flow, by embracing the evolution that comes from both the qualities and challenges in cultivating a character strength, we see the potential of that strength fulfilled and a level of mastery achieved that inspires ourselves and those around us to flourish. It’s a magical state and skill that is integrated and aware. It embraces performance that gives rise to achievement, while integrated with a state of moral being. Thriving character traits require Professional, Social and/or Spiritual evolution, this can only be attained by experiencing and exploring a character trait fully and embracing the qualities and challenges as parts that together in balanced flow, create the whole.