In a world obsessed with external achievements and accolades, David Brooks’ “The Road to Character” serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of developing inner virtues and moral character. This book, which aligns with Rudder4Life’s Personal Development Framework, emphasises the need to focus on “eulogy virtues” rather than “résumé virtues” and highlights the role of humility, gratitude, struggles, resilience, and commitment to service and sacrifice in shaping our character.
Brooks introduces the concept of two conflicting selves that exist within each individual. The first one is Adam I, driven by external achievements and success. The second one is Adam II, characterised by internal virtues and moral character. This clash highlights the tension between our career-oriented ambitions and our desire for a profound inner life. In other words, we face a choice between living a life based on fleeting achievements or one that focuses on enduring values. The key to genuine success lies in living a life aligned with our deepest principles.
In today’s society, individual success and self-promotion are often prioritised. Thus, it’s crucial to prioritise the nurturing of our Adam II side, which focuses on moral virtues and inner transformation. It is a fundamental aspect of personal growth and development that must not be overlooked or undervalued. Brooks explains that internal markers of success, also known as “eulogy virtues,” are celebrated at a person’s funeral. These virtues include kindness, bravery, honesty, and faithfulness. In contrast, external markers of success, or “résumé virtues,” include superficial measures of success, such as wealth, status, and professional achievements.
So, “The Road to Character” emphasises the importance of developing inner virtues and moral character rather than solely pursuing external markers of success. Brooks argues that true success comes from living a life of integrity and authenticity, aligning our actions with our values, beliefs and purpose. This focus on inner moral development resonates with Rudder4Life’s Personal Development Framework, which emphasises the importance of character and integrity in personal growth and success.
Finding our way to authenticity or true character requires:
- Humility and Gratitude: It requires us to balance our ambitions with integrity, striving for excellence while remaining grounded in moral principles. To achieve this, we must develop the virtues of humility and gratitude. By recognising our limitations and being grateful for what we have, we can develop a more profound sense of character and purpose. These virtues also allow us to go beyond our ego, connect meaningfully with others and contribute to the well-being of our communities. Developing these virtues allows individuals to go beyond their ego and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
- Struggles and Resilience: Resilience is another essential factor in building our true character. Facing and overcoming adversity helps us develop inner strength and moral courage. By accepting our struggles and learning from them, we can develop the inner strength and moral determination necessary to manage life’s challenges and grow as individuals.
- Commitment to Service and Sacrifice: Genuine success comes from dedicating ourselves to causes greater than personal ambition. We must commit to service and sacrifice, making meaningful contributions to the lives of others. This way, we can leave behind a legacy defined not by material success but by the moral imprint we leave on the world. Our actions, guided by integrity and compassion, have the power to inspire others and shape a more just and compassionate society. Committing to service and sacrifice promotes a sense of purpose and meaning that goes beyond our desires and ambitions.
“The Road to Character” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of developing inner virtues and moral character. By focusing on eulogy virtues, accepting the dichotomy of Adam I and Adam II, and committing to service and sacrifice, we can develop a profound sense of character and purpose that goes beyond external success and personal ambition. As we manage the challenges of life, let us remember the wisdom of Brooks’ insights and strive with courage and conviction to develop the inner virtues that truly define our character, knowing that the true measure of our lives lies not in what we achieve but in who we become. A book worth reading!