Whenever I am asked this question, I always relate the “character” as someone with high moral values: honesty, integrity, generosity, forgiveness…
In other words, I view them as either some people have it or some don’t. It is not something you can work towards being a “good character” person.
A few days ago, I received a holiday party invitation that changed my limited understanding of judging people’s characters.
The invitee was a person I met in 2007 when I just moved back to Toronto from New York City. Years of being away for education and professional experience, I did not know a soul, which pushed me to attend my alumni social event.
With my less-than-ideal social skills, I felt awkward in the sea of people who seemed to know each other. While holding the drink and resenting my parents for pushing me to attend the party, one person approached me with a hello and smile.
The conversation was easy and comfortable, and she did something I would never forget to this day.
She took my hands and introduced me to everyone at the party. Since she had a leadership position in the alumni group, she knew everyone, including the one she had just met, ME.
Receiving the holiday invitation again after that fateful connection 18 years ago, I recognized one character I do not normally associate with the expression “good judge of character”: CONNECTOR.
With eighteen years between us and many changes in our lives, I am sure we would have much to discuss, which I look forward to.
Even though I did not recognize the significance of the connector character trait, old age with lots of gray hair tells me it should be placed in the high mantle with other lofty characters.
With the benefits of hindsight, I turn out to be a good judge of character after all:)
Life Outside of Design Studio 