Over the course of writing a novel, you should show the entire spectrum of your character’s personality. We should see their best qualities and their worst qualities on display at some point in the novel.
One of the interesting things about human beings is that personality traits can cut both ways. What might be a strength could also manifest as a weakness depending on the situation or whether the character is unable to manage it.
A character might be brave, but that also could lead them to be reckless. They might be idealistic, but also naive.
Use this list to brainstorm ideas for showing the flip side of your characters’ strengths and weaknesses:
| Strength | Weakness |
| Brave | Reckless |
| Idealistic | Naive |
| Funny | Unserious |
| Confident | Arrogant |
| Careful | Timid |
| Virtuous | Rigid |
| Open-minded | Overthinking |
| Determined | Stubborn |
| Loyal | Insular |
| Humble | Passive |
| Patient | Unproductive |
| Energetic | Exhausting |
| Independent | Poor team player |
| Imaginative | Unrealistic |
| Charismatic | Self-absorbed |
| Emotional | Illogical |
| Proud | Vain |
| Driven | Greedy |
| Logical | Lacking empathy |
| Honest | Blunt |
| Decisive | Impulsive |
| Natural leader | Bossy |
| Focused | Addictive personality |
| Curious | Aimless |
| Kind | Unassertive |
| Connoisseur | Glutton |
| Content | Unambitious |
| Principled | Intolerant |
| Charming | Deceitful |
| Adaptable | Unstructured |
| Realistic | Cynical |
Can you think of any I missed? Leave a comment and I’ll add them to the post!
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Art: Samson and Delilah by Cranach the Younger
Fantastic stuff, Nathan, Thanks so much : )
I often write about non-human characters, and I can see that this list could also extend to them. It has always frustrated trying to portray characters who are, in many ways, several more rungs up the evolutionary ladder. What might they be like, and how would this be reflected in their attitudes and dialogue? Then, recently, I watched a movie – a debut by an Australian director – called I Am Mother. His portrayal of an android who, initially, seemed to embody those traits I wanted to bring to life was captivating. ‘Her’ later actions seemed to conflict with the earlier way she was shown. Or did they? It’ll leave you thinking for weeks. If you have Netflix, the movie is currently shown there.
This is so helpful especially when Iām considering the conflict of each character and their motivation and subsequent consequence of their actions.
Hi Nathan,
I stumbled upon this list while searching for lists of character strengths, but I work in life-coaching/personal development, I’m not an author! I love your list, haven’t seen anything like it before, and you raise a fascinating point: behind every human strength there lies a potential weakness. Once you become aware of this, you can develop your strength whilst watching out that it doesn’t take on a potentially negative aspect.
Wonderful stuff and than you so much for sharing!
Great list! Thanks, Nathan!
I often find myself at situations where if I am too determined to do something, I also worry if I am coming across as rude or stubborn to the ones around me. One needs to constantly keep in check of how they are balancing their strengths with weaknesses. Thanks for sharing š
I often find myself in situations where I question if my strength is turning out to be a weakness & holding me back. Like if I am too determined to do something, I also worry if I am coming across as rude or stubborn to the ones around me. Very crucial to keep a balance between strengths and weaknesses. Thanks for sharing š