You will come across hundreds of characteristics people say you must have in order to be heartfelt. Most of them will probably be sensible and of course, they are good characteristics. You cannot be angry all the time and be heartfelt. Here are some of the most revered traits people wish they had in their personality:
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Optomistic |
Positive |
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Enthusiastic |
Ethical |
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Listener |
Considerate |
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Good-natured |
Intelligent |
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Sincere |
Wise |
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Responsible |
Trustworthy |
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Friendly |
Conscientious |
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Empathetic |
Agreeable |
Do you need each and every quality to be heartfelt? I doubt it. If one had all these features all the time, you are probably a living Saint, Messiah or a Buddha. What you do need is this secret.
You must have an intention to use these traits. This is worth repeating. You must have an intention to use virtuous traits. In other words, your intentions must be wholesome.
Intention is the meaning you give to your actions. If there is one skill in life that could give you infinite happiness and self-esteem, it is your ability to create meaning and your ability to create good intention.
Having a clear intention to be the best person you can be is the foundation of a heartfelt leader, mother, father, friend and co-worker. You must intend to listen with respect and understanding. You must intend to be ethical and intelligent with your decision-making.
Now, after setting your intention, let go of the outcome. That is, stop worrying what might happen or wondering about being heartfelt. Keep your mind on the moment, making the consistent choice to move forward, mindful of your reason for doing so. Keep your intention.
With this perspective, problems become experiences with which to learn and deepen ourselves. You do not “have to” attain anything. With good intention, the rest follows naturally and you're on your way to being a Heartfelt Leader!