23 Positive Character Traits to Give Your Characters

When you're creating a character for your story, it's important to give them positive character traits that will make them believable and likable. A well-rounded character should have a mix of strengths and weaknesses, but it's especially important to focus on the positive qualities.

In this blog article, we'll go through a list of 23 positive character traits that can help make your characters more interesting as well as associated behaviors and emotions for each.

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1. Adaptable

Definition

Being flexible and able to adjust no matter the circumstance.

Example Behaviors

• Thinking quickly
• Open-mindedness
• Being a good listener
• Being prepared for anything

Example Emotions

• Confidence
• Curiosity
• Eagerness

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to think on one's feet and problem-solve is a great skill to have in any situation. It helps one stay open-minded and efficient in their work, as well as in their personal life.

2. Analytical

Definition

Skilled in critical thinking and reasoning; able to easily study and analyze information.

Example Behaviors

• Asking questions
• Running experiments
• Enjoying the chance to explain how something works
• Keeping a journal of one's thoughts and observations

Example Emotions

• Conflicted
• Determination
• Skepticism

Why it's a strength

Being analytical is a great trait to have as it helps one think critically and independently. It also allows one to make well-informed decisions and often leads to more creative solutions that others may not have thought of.

3. Centered

Definition

Maintaining a healthy life view that promotes emotional stability and focus.

Example Behaviors

• Knowing one's priorities
• Not being materialistic in nature
• Exhibiting good judgment
• Respecting other people and their viewpoints

Example Emotions

• Curiosity
• Peacefulness
• Gratitude

Why it's a strength

Being centered is important as it allows one to stay focused on what matters most and not be swayed by external influences. It also allows one to think objectively in difficult situations and makes it easier for them to make decisions with confidence.

4. Charming

Definition

Being amiable and well-liked by others.

Example Behaviors

• Having a good sense of humor
• Being respectful of others
• Maintaining strong eye contact
• Having good posture

Example Emotions

• Amusement
• Confidence
• Happiness

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to charm others can be a great strength for any character, as it shows that they have strong interpersonal skills and are able to get along with people easily. It also makes one more approachable and likable, which often leads to positive results.

5. Cooperative

Definition

Able and excited to work with others in order to achieve a common goal.

Example Behaviors

• Having an open mind
• Being a peacemaker
• Listening to what others have to say
• Dedication and loyalty

Example Emotions

• Determination
• Gratitude
• Hopefulness

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to cooperate with others is a positive trait, as it allows one to work together and come up with creative solutions in order to get things done. It also shows respect for other people's opinions and ideas, which can often lead to positive outcomes.

6. Decisive

Definition

The ability to make decisions without hesitation or reservation.

Example Behaviors

• Appearing certain even when one is not
• Being goal-oriented
• Having a strong work ethic
• Assertiveness

Example Emotions

• Confidence
• Determination
• Impatience

Why it's a strength

Being decisive is important when it comes to making decisions, especially in difficult situations. It shows that one can think logically and act quickly when needed, as well as have the courage to make tough choices.

7. Diplomatic

Definition

Great with people and capable of handling delicate situations.

Example Behaviors

• Being trustworthy
• Offering ideas and solutions for change
• Leading by example
• Being highly aware of people's emotions

Example Emotions

• Confidence
• Determination
• Hopefulness

Why it's a strength

Having the diplomatic skill to handle delicate situations is a positive trait that can help any character. It shows that one is capable of diffusing conflicts and making sure everyone's needs are met, as well as having respect for other people and their emotions.

8. Disciplined

Definition

Exercising willpower and self-control.

Example Behaviors

• Resisting temptations
• Making sacrifices for what is important
• Difficulty compromising
• Carefully controlling one's emotions

Example Emotions

• Confidence
• Desire
• Determination

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to stay disciplined shows that one has self-control, patience, and hard work ethic which often leads to positive outcomes in life. Additionally, being disciplined can also motivate others and make it easier to achieve success.

9. Honorable

Definition

Guided by moral principles and shows integrity.

Example Behaviors

• Speaking the truth when asked
• Forgiving people
• Keeping one's ego in check
• Protecting those who need it

Example Emotions

• Confidence
• Determination
• Pride

Why it's a strength

Having the strength of character and integrity to act in an honorable way can be a positive trait for any character. It shows that one has morals and values, and is willing to stand up for what is right even when it’s difficult.

10. Loyal

Definition

Possessing unfaltering devotion.

Example Behaviors

• Talking incessantly about the object they are loyal to
• Seeking out others who share their affection for the object they are loyal to
• Often giving more than they receive
• Craving the object's affirmation or attention

Example Emotions

• Adoration
• Anticipation
• Defensiveness

Why it's a strength

Being loyal is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of putting their trust in someone or something, and sticking with them even when the going gets tough. It also showcases reliability and dependability which can often lead to positive results.

11. Meticulous

Definition

Being attentive to small details.

Example Behaviors

• Obsessively cleaning and tidying
• Micromanaging others
• Making lists
• Perfectionism

Example Emotions

• Annoyance
• Determination
• Impatience

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to pay attention to small details is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of understanding complex concepts and finding solutions quickly. Additionally, being meticulous can help characters become more organized.

12. Observant

Definition

Paying careful attention.

Example Behaviors

• Having excellent recall
• Being mindful of body language and expressions
• Noticing details that others might miss
• People watching

Example Emotions

• Amusement
• Curiosity
• Wariness

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to observe the world around them is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of understanding social cues and perceiving information quickly. Additionally, being observant can help characters become more aware of their environment.

13. Optimistic

Definition

Looking at events in the most positive light and expecting the best possible outcome.

Example Behaviors

• Assuming the best of people
• Seeing a difficult job as an opportunity to learn and grow
• Not complaining
• Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities

Example Emotions

• Amusement
• Elation
• Peacefulness

Why it's a strength

Being optimistic is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of looking at adversity in life as an opportunity and not letting it bring them down. Additionally, having a positive outlook can help characters stay motivated to reach their goals.

14. Pensive

Definition

Profoundly introspective.

Example Behaviors

• Sitting still for long periods of time
• Going for isolated walks or drives
• Wandering off by oneself
• Showing an appreciation for knowledge and education

Example Emotions

• Amazement
• Amusement
• Curiosity

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to reflect on thoughts and feelings is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of understanding complex issues and reaching conclusions based on careful consideration. Additionally, being pensive can help characters become more mindful and purposeful in their lives.

15. Persistent

Definition

Being determined and continuing on even when things are tough or there is danger.

Example Behaviors

• Training and gathering knowledge that will help
• Becoming obsessed
• Strongly believing in oneself
• Enlisting the help of others

Example Emotions

• Anticipation
• Denial
• Determination

Why it's a strength

Being persistent is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of pushing through difficult situations and not giving up. Additionally, having the persistence to see things through can help characters stay focused on their goals.

16. Protective

Definition

Responsible for keeping people or things safe from harm.

Example Behaviors

• Being aware of danger and risk, and avoiding them as much as possible
• Being proactive; thinking ahead to what might be needed
• Distrust of strangers
• Seeing to the needs of those in one's care

Example Emotions

• Gratitude
• Skepticism
• Worry

Why it's a strength

Having the ability to protect and guard others is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of being responsible for the safety of those in their charge. Additionally, being protective can help characters become more aware of potential risks in any situation.

17. Quirky

Definition

Being unusual or eccentric.

Example Behaviors

• Wearing unconventional clothing combinations
• Unpredictability
• Not picking up on common social cues from others
• Embracing one's weirdness

Example Emotions

• Amusement
• Confidence
• Indifference

Why it's a strength

Being quirky is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of being comfortable in their own skin and embracing the things that make one unique. Additionally, having an interesting spin on common situations can help characters add depth and perspective to conversations.

18. Sentimental

Definition

Susceptible to change based on emotional responses.

Example Behaviors

• Being deeply touched by kindness
• Nostalgia
• Passing down heirlooms
• Holding on to and cherishing keepsakes

Example Emotions

• Adoration
• Gratitude
• Love

Why it's a strength

Being sentimental is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of connecting with others on an emotional level and being affected by the positive actions of those around them. Additionally, having a strong appreciation for memories and moments can help characters stay connected to those important people in their lives.

19. Studious

Definition

Committed to furthering one's education.

Example Behaviors

• Being widely read
• Using big words
• Happily sharing one's knowledge with others
• Neglecting one's appearance

Example Emotions

• Curiosity
• Determination
• Smugness

Why it's a strength

Being studious is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of dedicating themselves to learning and being passionate about education. Additionally, having an interest in knowledge can help characters find solutions to difficult problems and make decisions based on research.

21. Thrifty

Definition

Well-managed and economical.

Example Behaviors

• Using coupons
• Using only what one needs
• Holding onto old items in case they can be used later
• Fixing broken items in an effort to get more use out of them

Example Emotions

• Determination
• Pride
• Satisfaction

Why it's a strength

Being thrifty is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of being resourceful and aware of the value of money. Additionally, having the ability to maintain financial responsibility can help characters stay on top of their goals and build wealth.

22. Wholesome

Definition

Having high moral standards and being a good influence on others.

Example Behaviors

• Having a lighthearted attitude
• Being friendly, kind, and outgoing
• Wanting to help others
• Smiling and laughing

Example Emotions

• Happiness
• Love
• Satisfaction

Why it's a strength

Being wholesome is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of being positive, compassionate, and empathetic towards others. Additionally, having the ability to be a positive influence can help characters create meaningful connections with those around them.

23. Witty

Definition

Having the ability to use humor in a clever way.

Example Behaviors

• Making jokes based on high intellect
• Quick thinking
• Passive-aggressive behavior
• Thinking creatively

Example Emotions

• Amusement
• Confidence
• Happiness

Why it's a strength

Being witty is a positive trait as it shows that one is capable of being sharp and entertaining in conversations. Additionally, having the ability to add humor to any situation can help characters make light of difficult matters and bring joy to those around them.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many positive character traits that can be used to give your characters more depth and realism. From being adaptable to witty, these positive traits will help bring your story to life and make your characters come alive.

Want to learn more about these positive character traits and so much more? Check out the Positive Trait Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. This awesome resource contains 99 character strengths along with possible causes, positive aspects, negative aspects, and examples to help you build amazing characters.