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| We've all heard of having too much of a good thing. This can be true of the virtues as well. When a virtue is too strong, we experience negative behavior. At that "teachable moment" we can call on another virtue that needs strengthening in order restore the balance. Here are some examples of virtues that balance each other. When you notice a challenging behavior, first, acknowledge the virtue being used ("I see your. . ."). Then ask for the virtue that is needed ("Please be . . .) |
| LABEL or CHALLENGING BEHAVIOR |
VIRTUES BEING DEMONSTRATED |
VIRTUES NEEDING DEVELOPMENT |
| Shy | Peacefulness, self-care | Friendliness, confidence, courage |
| Talking back, argumentative | Honesty, justice, assertiveness | Respect, tact, self-discipline, detachment |
| Lazy | Peacefulness, gentleness, detachment | Responsibility, service, enthusiasm, determination, helpfulness, excellence |
| Stubborn | Persistence, determination, assertiveness, justice, perserverance | Respect, flexibility, obedience, detachment, moderation, forgiveness |
| Bullying | Determination | Kindness, tolerance, peacefulness |
| Demanding | Assertiveness, excellence | Contentment, cooperation |
| Unpredictable, distracted | Assertiveness, excellence | Contentment, cooperation |
| Loud | Enthusiasm | Peacefulness,courtesy, consideration |
| Nosy, intrusive | Curiosity, enthusiasm | Respect |
| Inflexible | Orderliness, determination, responsibility, self-discipline, purposefulness | Flexibility, trust, moderation |
| Manipulative | Determination, creativity | Cooperation, service, trustworthiness |
| Impatient | Determination | Patience, peacefulness |
| Anxious | Excellence, humility, integrity, love | Confidence, serenity, trust, courage |
| Whiny | Justice, idealism | Gratitude, joyfulness, patience |
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