10 Poems About Character

Be inspired by these poems about character, because character is shaped each day by the choices we make.

It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.
Roy Disney

Updated January 21, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer

Character shows up in the small moments. It is the choice to be honest when it would be easier to hide. It is the decision to be kind when you are tired or upset. People may not see every struggle you face, but they do see the direction you take.

These poems remind us that character is built one choice at a time. No one becomes strong in character by accident. We grow when we admit mistakes, when we learn from them, and when we keep trying to do what is right. If you want a better path tomorrow, begin with a better choice today.

Our Character

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

Not built of stone, nor carved in gold,
A thing unseen, a story told,
It whispers, yet speaks so loud,
Our character, a rising cloud.

It isn't words, nor empty praise,
But choices made through all our days.
The helping hand, the honest tongue,
The kindness shown, where wrongs were sung.

In quiet strength, in actions bold,
The story of character unfolds.
The dreams we chase, the tears we cry,
The battles fought, the reasons why.

For deep within, a compass lies,
That guides our steps beneath the skies.
It steers us clear from shallow ground,
Where fleeting trends and doubts are found.

So let your compass ever guide,
With courage fierce, and heart confide.
For in each choice, both big and small,
Your character will stand up tall.

Leave footprints deep, a legacy,
A testament to who you'll be.
For character, a guiding light,
Will forever burn, ever so bright.

Positive character traits are something you can and should develop...traits like love or caring, respect for life, honesty or trustworthiness, responsibility, justice, and fairness. Barbara A. Lewis

Our Character Is Shown

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

Through action firm and what we do,
Our character is shown true and true.
Not swayed by imitation or fleeting emotion,
But forged through honesty and devotion.

By doing, not by words or mere suggestion,
We build a foundation of true distinction.
With steady hands and unwavering will,
Our character is revealed through deeds that fulfill.

We Do Reveal

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In the life, what we do reveals,
How slight is the blemish, how much it conceals.
A drop of dark ink in a sea of clear hue,
Taints the pristine, leaving a mark that grew.

My dear friend, remember the choices you make,
For in every action, your character's at stake.
In the first whispered falsehood, how you spend your days,
Your character is shown in many ways.

Let your integrity shine, a light so bright,
In words and  deeds, let your character take flight.
For in every decision, in each path that you choose,
Your true self emerges, by the action you infuse.

The Purpose

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

The purpose of life is clear to see,
To learn and grow, live our values and be;
Life's trials we all know,
But character formed with love will flow.

It takes courage and much grit,
To discover your authentic fit;
Compassion to others is a key,
Build a character others will see.

The Life You Lead

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In life, our beliefs do guide,
They determine the paths where we shall reside.
For character defines our essence true,
We can make a difference as we journey through.

With noble virtues as our guiding light,
Our character shows both day and night.
So choose your actions with care and heed,
As your character will determine the life you lead.

Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing. Abraham Lincoln

Quotes About Character

In Life's Grand Parade

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In hearts where kindest virtues intertwine,
Strength is found in character refined.
Goodness, a light in the darkest night,
Shining with a selfless, quiet might.

Loving-kindness, like a gentle hand,
Guides us through trials with grace so grand.
Self-sacrifice, noble art displayed,
Can show your character in life's grand parade.

A Good Character

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In a world of virtue and grace,
⁤A good character finds its place.
⁤With moral integrity as its guide,
⁤Empathy and resilience by its side.

⁤A positive impact on others it leaves,
⁤ ⁤Reflecting the values that it believes.
⁤In society, a good character does shine,
⁤A noble heart, in all deeds and designs. ⁤

A Happier Life

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In a life where good character shines,
⁤Stronger relationships, and bonds do bind.
⁤Self-respect blooms with integrity's might,
⁤Boosting confidence, a shining light.

⁤Positive impact, inspiring the way, ⁤
⁤Leading towards a more just display.
⁤Opportunities bloom with a character so strong,
⁤ ⁤A happier life, where virtues belong.

A Character Of Integrity

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In the tender soil of youth we sow,
⁤Seeds of virtue to help them grow.
⁤A character of integrity, shining bright,⁤
⁤In darkness stands firm with unwavering might.
⁤ ⁤Admitting faults and upholding moral creed,⁤
⁤Guided by principles in thought and deed. ⁤⁤

Character and Reputation

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In life, our character and reputation intertwine,
Shaped by deeds and actions that define.
A strong character is key, to maintain
A positive reputation in life's domain.

How we're perceived is based on what we do,
Integrity and honesty shine through.
So let us build our character strong and true,
To uphold a reputation that others will value too.


Conclusion

Character is often revealed in what we do, not just what we say. We hope these poems encouraged you to keep building steady values, one choice at a time. Think about the character you are shaping today, because it will guide the life you live tomorrow.

More Poems Of Encouragement to Motivate

Character is doing what you don't want to do but know you should do.
Joyce Meyer