Good News For Good People: Strong Character Makes You Happier

I have some good news for all you good people out there! Bouncing back from a life challenge will be a little easier for you! Read on…

As many of you know, Aristotle is my favorite philosopher – for many reasons. So much so, I even named my son the name “Ari” as a wink to the Greek philosopher.

In particular, I love Aristotle’s theories on good people and happiness.

Aristotle’s beliefs about good people:

Good people will always more resiliently recover from life’s challenges – far better than badly behaving people..

How Aristotle described a good person:

“someone who possesses the virtues of strong character”

Basically, a high integrity person has the conscience, discipline and self awareness to choose habits which they are proud of – and thereby act with kindness and compassion – even during times of stress and conflict.

Why did Aristotle believe a high integrity person will recover from life’s challenges better than a badly behaving person?

For the same reason that a physically in shape person will more easily recover from a car accident than an out of shape person.

Aristotle believed that someone who “possesses the virtues of strong character” is intrinsically emotionally and spiritually stronger.

Basically, someone who has strong character is literally “stronger” at recovering from tough times.

I love this as a concept – that being a high integrity person means that you’re in good, strong emotional and spiritual shape!

Want proof of a good person recovering very well from a life challenge?

How about Oprah!

Here is a woman who was raped at a young age.

But Oprah intrinsically “possessed the virtues of strong character” and thereby she was better able to bounce back from her challenge.

The happiness lesson:

Every day put in the effort of acting with strong character.

You’ll not only feel happier on a daily basis – you’ll also become stronger spiritually – which is good “spirit insurance” which will then protect you should a challenge ever arise.

Basically, when you’re mindfully behaving with high integrity – acting with strong character on a regular basis – you build up powerful spiritual muscles and big soul cajones – which then helps you to better bounce back from whatever comes your way.

Become the happiest version of YOU!

If you’re having a difficult time feeling happy, check out the resiliency psychology techniques found in my best selling book THINK HAPPY!