A better understanding of what you are about — your goals, your dreams, and your aspirations — leads you to a better understanding of those around you. It is critical, therefore, that you be honest with yourself at all times. The moment you begin to deceive yourself is the beginning of the decline in your character; it is the beginning of a process of rationalization that permits you to justify unacceptable behavior. Make sure you are a person whom you like, a person of sound character. If you don’t like yourself, how can you expect others to like you? Step back and examine your behavior as logically as possible. Ask yourself, “Am I the kind of person I would like to be with?” Developing good character traits is like achieving any other objective. Determine where you wish to be and then develop a plan for getting there.