All of us have a different way of explaining and perceiving a ‘person of substance’. For some, it may be a large no. of qualities, while for others it may be a few of them yet intense and deep. In me, a person of substance is one who has values - which I’ll explain further - and one who utilizes those values in her/his day-to-day life to make a difference.
One of the most important qualities of a person of substance is being mindful. Being mindful is being attentive to what's happening in the present rather than focusing on the past or the future. Mindfulness helps a person be fit mentally and physically as they do not worry about their future or their past.
He/she is influential- they can influence people positively and help them find a good path for themselves. This way they do well for others while building self-confidence in them.
He/she is also someone who is brave and courageous - bravery is the ability to stand for a minute longer in adversities! Bravery also is the ability to take a stand against wrongdoings.
A person of substance is caring and kind towards others - and is able to help those who are in need. A caring attitude is about sympathy and empathy. Ability to put oneself in another's shoes and understand the situation from another's perspective is all about sympathy and empathy. An extension of this is having a selfless attitude.
As Benjamin Franklin rightly said “honesty is the best policy”, some who are honest can own up to their mistakes. Truth is the cornerstone of meaningful and lasting relationships. A person who learns from his mistakes and moves on rather than giving up is also an example of a person of substance.
Hard work and perseverance are other hallmarks of a person of substance. Such a person diligently stays on task till it’s over. All achievements in this world have been resulting in hard work and not giving up.
Last but not the least, a person of substance is someone who is also a good listener and listens intensely; good listening makes one understand what others are actually conveying, helps others feel valued, and helps us find the right solutions.
The above qualities make one a naturally good leader. And we find good and influential leaders and preachers around possessing most of these qualities.
A person of substance is able to balance all of these qualities in his day-to-day life. As mentioned earlier, although one person may not have all of these qualities, it is important to have a few of them, believe in them and use these values for the benefit of others. The mark of substance in a person is the impact he/she is able to make on society and humanity.
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