The Six Pillars of Character from CHARACTER COUNTS! are ethical values that are easy to understand, easy to teach, and are critical to showing good character.
Trustworthiness
• Be honest. Don’t deceive, cheat or steal.
• Be reliable. Do what you say you’ll do.
• Have the courage to do the right thing.
• Build a good reputation.
• Be loyal. Stand by your family, friends and country.
Respect
• Treat others with respect. Follow the Golden Rule.
• Be tolerant of differences.
• Use good manners, not bad language.
• Be considerate of the feelings of others.
• Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone.
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.
Responsibility
• Do what you are supposed to do.
• Persevere. Keep on trying.
• Always do your best.
• Use self-control. Be self-disciplined.
• Think before you act. Consider the consequences.
Fairness
• Play by the rules.
• Take turns and share.
• Be open-minded. Listen to others.
• Don’t take advantage of others.
• Don’t blame others carelessly.
Caring
• Be kind.
• Be compassionate and show you care.
• Express gratitude.
• Forgive others.
• Help people in need.
Citizenship
• Do your share to make your community better.
• Cooperate.
• Stay informed. Vote.
• Be a good neighbor.
• Obey laws and rules. Respect authority.
• Protect the environment. Recycle.
Learn more at CharacterCountsInIowa.org
CHARACTER COUNTS! and the Six Pillars of Character are trademarks of the Josephson Institute.
