Character Trait: Constant

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait "Constant" refers to the quality of being unwavering and steadfast in one's beliefs, actions, or emotions. A constant character is someone who is dependable and consistent, no matter what challenges or obstacles they may face. They stick to their principles and commitments, and are not easily swayed by external factors. They are reliable, trustworthy, and often inspire confidence and respect in others. In storytelling, a character with this trait can add depth and authenticity to the plot and can be used to create tension or resolution in the story arc.

Possible causes of being constant

You might want to weave these into your character's back story to build a more believable character.

• Life experiences and lessons learned
• Personal beliefs and values
• Genetic predisposition or temperament
• Trauma or adversity
• Environmental factors, such as job or living conditions
• Neurological or psychiatric conditions
• Personality disorders or traits, such as introversion or perfectionism
• Cultural or societal influences
• Early childhood experiences or upbringing

For detailed feedback on constant characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's literary analysis software.

Behaviors associated with being constant

You may be able to show your character's trait of constant by using these.

• Maintaining a steady and dependable work pace
• Keeping promises and following through on commitments
• Persisting through obstacles and challenges
• Being reliable and trustworthy
• Being grounded and stable in emotions and decision-making
• Demonstrating a strong sense of loyalty to people or values
• Consistently showing up on time for appointments or commitments
• Displaying a level of commitment and dedication to projects or relationships
• Sticking to routines or schedules

Attitudes associated with being constant

You may be able to show constant through their attitudes.

• Consistency: Constant characters exhibit a level of reliability and predictability in their actions, attitudes, and beliefs.
• Dependability: They are trustworthy and can be counted on to follow through on their promises and obligations.
• Stability: They provide a sense of grounding and stability to those around them, as they maintain a calm and collected demeanor.
• Persistence: They possess a tenacity that helps them overcome obstacles and challenges, as they remain steadfast in their commitments.
• Loyalty: They are fiercely loyal to their friends, family, and causes they believe in, and will go to great lengths to support them.
• Endurance: Constant characters have the ability to withstand difficult situations and remain focused on their goals, even in the face of adversity.
• Dedication: They are devoted to their work, hobbies, and passions, and will put in the time and effort required to achieve success.

Thoughts and struggles associated with being constant

Here are some ideas for things your constant character may think or struggle with.

• In relationships, they may struggle with expressing their emotions or vulnerability, but will often be dependable and reliable.
• They may have a tendency to avoid taking risks or trying new things, as they prefer to stick with what they know.
• At times, they may struggle with feeling stuck or stagnant, but may also resist making changes that could improve their situation.
• They may also struggle with feeling overwhelmed or anxious when faced with too many decisions or changes in their life.
• They may have a strong sense of loyalty and commitment to certain people or values, sometimes to the point of stubbornness.
• Constant characters often struggle with the fear of change and the unknown. They prefer routine and stability in their lives.

Emotions associated with being constant

Here are some ideas for emotions your constant character may experience.

• Loyalty
• Steadfastness
• Dedication
• Reliability
• Dependability
• Endurance
• Consistency
• Determination
• Perseverance

Facial expressions associated with being constant

Here are some facial expressions your constant character may exhibit.

• Steady gaze
• Lack of fidgeting or nervous tics
• Calm and composed expression
• Firm jawline
• Minimal eyebrow movement
• Neutral or serious facial expression
• Unwavering eye contact
• Minimal facial movement

Body language associated with being constant

Here is some body language your constant character may exhibit.

• Speaking in a measured tone
• Moving calmly and deliberately
• Avoiding fidgeting or nervous movements
• Standing or sitting upright with good posture
• Maintaining eye contact with others
• Keeping a steady pace while walking or moving
• Maintaining a consistent routine or schedule
• Maintaining a consistent facial expression
• Using slow and deliberate gestures

For detailed feedback on constant characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's literary analysis software.

Behaviors associated with being constant

Here are some behaviors your constant character may exhibit.

• Being reliable and trustworthy
• Displaying a level of commitment and dedication to projects or relationships
• Sticking to routines or schedules
• Maintaining a steady and dependable work pace
• Being grounded and stable in emotions and decision-making
• Consistently showing up on time for appointments or commitments
• Persisting through obstacles and challenges
• Demonstrating a strong sense of loyalty to people or values
• Keeping promises and following through on commitments

Growth and evolution of constant characters

Here are some ways that your constant character may grow and evolve over time.

• Learn to take responsibility for their actions and decisions
• Change their perspective on a situation or person
• Develop a sense of purpose or mission
• Learn to overcome their flaws and weaknesses
• Learn to forgive themselves and others for past mistakes
• Discover new strengths or talents
• Develop deeper relationships with others
• Develop a deeper understanding of their own values and beliefs
• Learn to trust themselves and others more
• Become more self-aware and reflective
• Learn to let go of things they cannot control
• Become more empathetic and understanding of others
• Learn to communicate more effectively

Stereotypes of constant characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical constant character like these examples.

• The overly intellectual and logical character who lacks emotional depth
• The one-dimensional villain who is purely evil with no redeeming qualities
• The constantly angry or aggressive character
• The overly sarcastic or witty character
• The perpetually happy and bubbly character
• The lone wolf or anti-social character who always keeps to themselves
• The always calm and collected character
• The perfect and flawless protagonist who never makes mistakes or has flaws
• The overly emotional and dramatic character

It's important for writers to avoid these stereotypes and instead focus on creating well-rounded and dynamic Constant characters that are relatable and engaging for readers.

Negatives of being constant

Here are some potential negatives of being constant. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as positives depending on the context.

• If a character's constant behavior is negative or harmful, it can make them unsympathetic or even villainous to readers.
• Constant characters may struggle to adapt to changing situations or circumstances, making them inflexible and potentially stagnant.
• A constant character may struggle to learn and grow, as they may be resistant to change or new experiences.
• Being constant can lead to predictability, which can make a character boring or unengaging.

Positives of being constant

Here are some potential positives of being constant. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as negatives depending on the context.

• They may also possess a strong sense of discipline and self-control, which can be admirable qualities.
• Constant characters can demonstrate the power of perseverance and determination, even in the face of adversity.
• Consistency helps build trust and reliability in a character.
• Constant characters are often seen as dependable and responsible.
• They can be a source of inspiration for other characters who may struggle with consistency.
• Constant characters can serve as a grounding force in a story, providing stability amidst chaos.
• They are usually focused on their goals and are less likely to be swayed by distractions or temptations.

Verbal expressions of constant characters

Here are some potential expressions used by constant characters.

• Uninterrupted
• Steady
• Unwavering
• Reliable
• Stable
• Consistently
• Uniform
• Persistent
• Unchanging
• Lasting
• Perpetual
• Continuous
• Never-ending
• Invariable
• Immutable
• Always
• Firm
• Enduring

Relationships of constant characters

Here are some ways that being constant could affect your character's relationships.

• They value stability and routine, so they may prefer relationships that offer a sense of security and predictability.
• They tend to be good listeners and may offer steady emotional support to those they care about.
• On the flip side, they may be less likely to take risks or try new things in relationships, which could lead to a sense of stagnation or boredom.
• They may struggle with change or uncertainty in relationships, and may need time to adjust to new situations or people.
• Dependable and reliable, Constant people are often seen as trustworthy and loyal friends and partners.
• They may prioritize harmony and avoiding conflict, which could lead to a tendency to avoid confrontation or difficult conversations.
• They may have a strong sense of duty or responsibility to their loved ones, which could lead to feelings of guilt or obligation if they feel they are not meeting expectations.

Examples from books of characters who are constant

• Jay Gatsby from The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• Sherlock Holmes from the Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle
• Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• Huckleberry Finn from The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
• Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
• Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins
• Jane Eyre from Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
• Holden Caulfield from The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• Harry Potter from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Writing exercises for writing constant characters

Here are some writing exercises you might try for learning to write constant characters.

• Create a dialogue between two characters, one of whom has the Constant trait and the other who does not. Show how their different approaches to life and decision-making affect their communication and relationship.
• Write a scene where a character with the Constant trait has to work with someone who is unpredictable or unreliable. Show how their different approaches to work and communication affect their ability to work together.
• Write a character profile for a protagonist or antagonist who embodies the Constant trait. Include details about their upbringing, values, and personality that contribute to their consistent behavior.
• Write a scene where a character with the Constant trait faces a challenge that tests their resolve. Show how they overcome this challenge or how their unwavering nature causes them to fail.
• Write a flashback scene that shows how a character with the Constant trait developed this trait. What experiences or events in their life led them to become someone who values consistency and reliability?
• Brainstorm a list of situations or scenarios where a character with the Constant trait would thrive or struggle. Use this as a guide to help you write scenes that highlight this trait.
• Write a character who struggles with the Constant trait. What are the consequences of their inconsistency? How do they try to overcome this weakness?
• Write a scene where a character with the Constant trait has to make a difficult decision. Show how their unwavering nature affects their thought process and the outcome of the decision.