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Character
Samuel Smiles
About the Author
Samuel Smiles (1812–1904) was a Scottish author and social reformer best recognized for his writings on hard work, personal development, and perseverance. His philosophy emphasized self-reliance, moral character, and the power of determination. “Self-Help,” one of his other works, became a critical text in the self-improvement movement, inspiring readers to cultivate virtue, diligence, and resilience.
About the Book
"Character" is a philosophical and moral exploration of the importance of building one's character to shape individual success and social progress. Smiles argues in this book that strong moral character, rather than wealth or status, is the more accurate measure of a person's worth. He emphasizes that integrity, self-discipline, perseverance, and ethical behavior are essential to personal fulfillment and societal well-being.
Summary
Smiles’ “Character” can help you develop your moral and personal life, motivating you to live with more virtue, integrity, and perseverance. Major lessons from the book include:
- The Importance of Character in Success: Talent and intelligence may open doors, but a strong character will determine your lasting success.
- Integrity as a Foundation of Trust: Honesty and ethical behavior build credibility and create a foundation for strong relationships.
- Self-Discipline and Hard Work: Success comes through consistent effort, patience, and a strong work ethic.
- Moral Courage and Standing for Principles: Your ability to stand by your beliefs, even in the face of opposition or hardship, determines your true character.
- Perseverance and Overcoming Obstacles: Resilience defines strong character. Learn to view failure and difficulty as stepping stones to greatness, not setbacks.
- The Role of Education and Continuous Learning: You can shape your character through knowledge, wisdom, and lifelong learning. Smiles promotes self-education and intellectual curiosity.
- The Influence of Role Models and Mentorship: Further shape your character by observing and learning from great leaders, thinkers, and mentors.
- The Relationship Between Character and Leadership: The best leaders are not just skilled but also morally upright, as leaders with integrity inspire trust and loyalty.
- The Social Impact of Strong Character: Individuals with high moral character contribute to improving society, business, and public institutions.
- Personal Responsibility and Self-Reliance: People are responsible for shaping their character through daily actions, decisions, and habits.
“Character” is a timeless guide to developing moral strength, self-discipline, and perseverance, reinforcing that true greatness comes from within.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Character” explores the role of moral character in personal and societal success, emphasizing integrity, self-discipline, and perseverance.
The number of pages varies by edition, falling between 300 and 350.
“Truthfulness is at the foundation of all personal excellence.”
“Simple honesty of purpose in a man goes a long way in life, if founded on a just estimate of himself and a steady obedience to the rule he knows and feels to be right.”
“Although genius always commands admiration, character most secures respect. The former is more the product of brain-power, the latter of heart-power; and in the long run it is the heart that rules in life. ”
“Character” was first published in 1871, during the Victorian era. People of that day widely emphasized moral philosophy and self-improvement.
This book has been republished in many editions and formats, including digital versions.
This book is in the online library on Mindset and Success, where you can find books to read for growth mindset and character development.
To learn more about the importance of character in success and leadership, read “Character” by Samuel Smiles at Secrets of Success. Join today for access to personal and professional development books like this and other classics.
If you love “Character” by Samuel Smiles, you might enjoy other works on the importance of:
- Moral strength
- Virtue
- Perseverance
- Inner excellence
Consider the following closely aligned books for your next reads:
“Self-Help” by Samuel Smiles: The ultimate foundation of Smiles’ quartet, it ingrains the importance of self-mastery and integrity for success.
“Duty” by Samuel Smiles: “Character” and "Duty” are like two halves of the same coin: one emphasizes internal strength, the other external responsibility.
“Life and Labour” by Samuel Smiles: A display of Character in action, this book emphasizes character in the context of hard work, persistence, and everyday moral heroism.
“A Message to Garcia” by Elbert Hubbard: A short but powerful call to self-reliance, loyalty, and individual initiative (characteristics Smiles praises).
“Pushing to the Front” by Orison Swett Marden: Marden takes the Smiles philosophy into the early 20th century, emphasizing hard work, perseverance, and building a noble character through effort.
“An Iron Will” by Orison Swett Marden: A manual on cultivating moral and mental toughness.
“The Power of Ambition” by Jim Rohn: Links ambition to personal integrity for building lasting success.
“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason: While financial-themed, it's a timeless call to wise living and self-discipline, major traits of good character.
Click here to read reviews of this book.
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Other Books by Samuel Smiles:
Self-Help (1859)
Character (1871)
Thrift (1875)
Duty (1880)
Life and Labour (1887)
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“He who would succeed must first believe in himself.”
Samuel Smiles
The best book I've ever read.
This is one of those rare finds where I highlighted so many passages that it became meaningless, and if I ever wanted some insight in the future, I need only pick a sub-header, flip to a random page, and read two paragraphs. I'll probably get what I'm looking for before I finish.
If I could, I would make this available as an optional read in every school and university. Lord knows we need more people of character.
Cannot recommend highly enough, and cannot wait to revisit in subsequent years.
among many others
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