Somehow, saying character matters more than clout feels almost controversial now.

We’re quick to rate people by their résumé, their network, their address, and their possessions.

I’d rather talk about character.

It feels almost taboo to put who you are above what you have and where you fit in.

Character is the strongest tell—your values, your patterns, your real default setting. You don’t build character in a vacuum. The people around you show you who you are. If you want better character, get around people who live the way you say you want to live. Character isn’t who you say you are. It’s what you practice.

Change the practice, change the person. When you cannot change the practice, change the person. Position yourself to be around people who possess high character and practice excellence.

Collage by Heather Polk, “What is Taboo? 2.13.2026”, 2026, torn magazine pages on watercolor paper, 8 in x 8 in