My 8 Best Techniques for Evaluating Character

Ignore the front that people display, the myth that surrounds them, and instead plumb their depths for signs of their character. This can be seen in the patterns they reveal from their past, the quality of their decisions, how they delegate authority and work with others, and countless other signs.

Character is not measured by a person’s beliefs but by the ability to see the full humanity of others. It is not automatic. It’s a skill acquired slowly. It’s about being able to focus on what’s going on in your own mind and simultaneously focus on what’s going on in another mind. It’s about learning how to minutely observe, absorb and resonate wit

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A short cut to identifying your motivations and strengths might be to ask 5-6 people you’ve worked with for some honest feedback on what you’re like. I’d recommend asking people who’ve managed you, peers and people you’ve managed. Look at the consistencies, and the differences, and work out what your ‘spike’ is. As you won’t be working with them, i... See more

Many people who are talented in their various fields have access to insight they can’t share with others. They simply see something we can’t. They try to describe it—picture any Paris Review interview—and often hearing them talk about their process is interesting and informative. But they’re unable to describe the core thing—what gives them the sto... See more

What trait do you value highly in other people?

I respect people who show up. People who stand for something and follow through.

It’s such a cliche, but life is short. There is so much to do and explore. You can go wide, you can go deep – but don’t do nothing. It doesn’t mean the answer is to be hyper-ambitious and become an entrepreneur. It’s just ... See more