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List of character strengths and weaknesses

June 25, 2019 by Nathan Bransford 11 Comments

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:

StrengthWeakness
BraveReckless
IdealisticNaive
FunnyUnserious
ConfidentArrogant
CarefulTimid
VirtuousRigid
Open-mindedOverthinking
DeterminedStubborn
LoyalInsular
HumblePassive
PatientUnproductive
EnergeticExhausting
IndependentPoor team player
ImaginativeUnrealistic
CharismaticSelf-absorbed
EmotionalIllogical
ProudVain
DrivenGreedy
LogicalLacking empathy
HonestBlunt
DecisiveImpulsive
Natural leaderBossy
FocusedAddictive personality
CuriousAimless
KindUnassertive
ConnoisseurGlutton
ContentUnambitious
PrincipledIntolerant
CharmingDeceitful
AdaptableUnstructured
RealisticCynical

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

Filed Under: Writing Advice Tagged With: Character strengths, Character weaknesses, Novels, writing advice

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Wendy says

    June 26, 2019 at 2:12 am

    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.

    Reply
  2. Kaye Martin says

    June 26, 2019 at 11:56 am

    This is so helpful especially when I’m considering the conflict of each character and their motivation and subsequent consequence of their actions.

    Reply
  3. smithy says

    February 6, 2020 at 10:49 am

    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!

    Reply
  4. Mike says

    May 24, 2020 at 7:12 pm

    Great list! Thanks, Nathan!

    Reply
  5. Nikita says

    June 30, 2020 at 12:57 pm

    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 🙂

    Reply
  6. Nikita says

    June 30, 2020 at 12:58 pm

    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 🙂

    Reply
  7. Leaftiger12 says

    October 1, 2020 at 7:32 pm

    I hope you know Undertale because you would be a Determination soul! I find it cool because I’m a fan but if you don’t know Undertale then you can ignore me and take the compliment. 🙂

    Reply
  8. Leaftiger12 says

    October 1, 2020 at 7:39 pm

    I think I found one Nathan
    Committed but regretful

    Reply
    • Madilyn says

      November 23, 2020 at 3:07 pm

      Playful but mischievous

      Reply
  9. Quinton says

    April 18, 2022 at 5:45 am

    Thanks! Was in the lab doing some character construction and stumbled upon this list. Really helped me out much appreciated!

    Reply
  10. Happiness says

    August 23, 2022 at 10:51 am

    Thank you so much Nathan, this helped with the study I’m involved with.

    Reply

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