
Brite Emotionally-connected tip: Habits influence YOUR character
Great (not just good) habits take time to develop. My mamma always told me to take care of my character and the rest will take care of itself. Character is the sum total of your habits. You can’t claim to be nice unless you are habitually nice—you show niceness without even thinking about it. You can’t claim to have integrity unless it is your habit to always be honest. A husband who is faithful to his wife most of the time is not faithful at all!
Your habits define your character. How do you develop habits that mold a great character? You must practice them—and that takes time! There are no instant habits. However, as you practice them, devote your time to them, people will take notice and honor your practices.
If you practice something over time, you get good at it. Repetition is the mother of character and skill. These character-building habits are also known as “spiritual disciplines,” and they include such things as meditation, prayer, fasting, study, simplicity, stewardship, solitude, submission and service.