The Character of Cautiousness

Character Leadership - The Character of Cautiousness

“You cannot test courage with cautiousness” –Annie Dillard

Definition:  Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.

Careless attitude, Recklessness, Irresponsibility, and Haste are the opposites of cautiousness. These allow our excitement and unmanaged boldness to control us. Under this circumstance, we will usually make silly mistakes and choices. If we permit unrestrained passions to direct us, we may lead and ruin our family and personal life in the wrong direction.

Cautiousness is being discerning and sensitive to danger so we do not rush into things when the timing is wrong, or the situation does not merit it. Being cautious acts as a check and balance as a governor on our passions and excitement so we do not get overexcited and ruin and offend people along the path of our chosen route.

Cautiousness allows us to gain better information and council before we make decisions and allow us to think before we act so we do not rush into something that is precarious or hazardous, or that will put us on the wrong track in life. We will be able to see what and how the options and decisions we make play out in the future, how they affect us and others—both now and also down the road. We can be sensitive, avoiding people who are not right for us, who may influence us to make bad decisions.  

Cautiousness is not the opposite of boldness, nor is it an excuse to slow down to the point we are not doing anything, and let fears and negativities take over us. Being cautious and bold are two characters traits that work together so we can live a life with good judgments and make good decisions to move forward in life to better prospects and opportunities.

Reflection:

Ask yourself; “How can I make cautiousness function better, stronger, and faster, even in times of uncertainties and stress?” When we are cautious, we are careful and discerning during time of stress and uncertainties. This will build in us the ability to make solid opinion and decisions and act with effectiveness and prudence.

As Character leaders, we must extend ourselves to other people with cautiousness and what flows out of cautiousness are good choices and good decisions. Dealing with people is perhaps the most difficult task in life if we look at it objectively and not pessimistically. It is difficult because we are dealing with emotions and it is an intangible element that dictates a person’s behavior.  Being cautious will help us learn how to effectively deal with people. Dealing with matters will then be a breeze if we can effectively deal with people with cautiousness.