Character Trait: Exceptional

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait "exceptional" refers to someone or something that stands out from the norm, is extraordinary, or exceeds expectations. An exceptional character may possess qualities such as outstanding talent, intelligence, resilience, or creativity that sets them apart from others. They may also exhibit exceptional behavior, such as acts of kindness, courage, or leadership that inspire others. Overall, exceptional characters are those who go above and beyond what is expected, achieving greatness and leaving a lasting impact on those around them.

Possible causes of being exceptional

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

• Personal values and beliefs: A person's core values, beliefs, and principles can have a significant impact on their behavior and personality.
• Environment and upbringing: Childhood experiences, family dynamics, cultural background, and social influences can all shape a person's personality and worldview.
• Life experiences and challenges: Overcoming adversity, facing difficult situations, and achieving significant accomplishments can shape a person's personality and give them a unique perspective on life.
• Genetics and biology: Some people may be naturally predisposed to certain personality traits due to their genetic makeup or the way their brain functions.

Behaviors associated with being exceptional

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

• They are self-motivated and able to stay focused on their goals even when faced with distractions or setbacks.
• They are able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.
• Exceptional individuals are open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives and ideas.
• Exceptional individuals are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact in the world.
• They are able to communicate effectively and build strong relationships with others.
• Exceptional individuals are lifelong learners who are constantly seeking to expand their knowledge and skills.
• Exceptional individuals consistently go above and beyond what is expected of them.
• They possess a strong work ethic and are willing to put in the effort to achieve their goals.
• Exceptional individuals have a positive attitude and are able to maintain their composure even in challenging situations.

Attitudes associated with being exceptional

You may be able to show exceptional through their attitudes.

• Ability to think creatively and outside the box
• Strong work ethic and discipline
• Open-mindedness and willingness to learn from others
• Perseverance and resilience in the face of obstacles
• Strong sense of purpose and direction
• High level of self-confidence and belief in one's abilities
• Willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo
• Striving for excellence and continuous improvement
• Passion for what one does

Thoughts and struggles associated with being exceptional

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

• A struggle with balancing their exceptional abilities with the expectations and limitations of society or their peers
• A tendency towards intense focus and dedication to their craft or passion
• A sense of loneliness or isolation due to the rarity of their exceptional abilities
• A constant need to challenge themselves and push beyond their own limits
• A sense of responsibility to use their talents for the greater good or to help others
• A fear of failure or not living up to their own high standards
• A tendency towards perfectionism and self-criticism
• A desire to stand out and be recognized for their unique abilities or talents
• A constant feeling of being misunderstood or like an outsider

Emotions associated with being exceptional

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

• Fulfillment
• Accomplishment
• Pride
• Achievement
• Gratitude
• Confidence
• Self-assurance
• Contentment
• Satisfaction

Facial expressions associated with being exceptional

Here are some facial expressions your exceptional character may exhibit.

• A calm and collected demeanor that exudes confidence and self-assurance
• An alert and attentive gaze that indicates focus and awareness
• A relaxed and open facial expression that conveys approachability and ease
• A firm and determined jawline
• A warm and inviting facial expression that encourages others to approach and engage with the character
• Raised eyebrows indicating surprise or interest
• A bright and confident smile
• A sparkle in the eyes that conveys enthusiasm and passion

Body language associated with being exceptional

Here is some body language your exceptional character may exhibit.

• Listening attentively and actively
• Nodding in agreement with enthusiasm
• Gesturing with purpose and clarity
• Smiling warmly and sincerely
• Speaking with clarity and conviction
• Making eye contact with confidence
• Using expressive facial expressions to convey emotions
• Moving with grace and fluidity
• Standing tall with good posture

Behaviors associated with being exceptional

Here are some behaviors your exceptional character may exhibit.

• Exceptional individuals are open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives and ideas.
• They possess a strong work ethic and are willing to put in the effort to achieve their goals.
• Exceptional individuals are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact in the world.
• Exceptional individuals have a positive attitude and are able to maintain their composure even in challenging situations.
• Exceptional individuals consistently go above and beyond what is expected of them.
• They are able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.
• They are self-motivated and able to stay focused on their goals even when faced with distractions or setbacks.
• Exceptional individuals are lifelong learners who are constantly seeking to expand their knowledge and skills.
• They are able to communicate effectively and build strong relationships with others.

Growth and evolution of exceptional characters

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

• They may become more independent and self-sufficient, relying less on others for support and guidance.
• Exceptional characters may learn to be more adaptable and flexible in their thinking and actions.
• Exceptional characters may learn from their mistakes and develop a sense of humility.
• They may become more open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives and ideas.
• Exceptional characters may develop a sense of resilience and learn to persevere through difficult situations.
• Exceptional characters may learn to be more empathetic and understanding of others, leading to stronger relationships and connections.
• They may become more courageous and willing to take risks in order to achieve their goals.
• They may become more self-aware and learn to recognize their own flaws and limitations.

Stereotypes of exceptional characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical exceptional character like these examples.

• Avoid making Exceptional characters too powerful or invincible.
• Avoid making Exceptional characters perfect or flawless.
• Avoid making Exceptional characters one-dimensional or lacking in depth.
• Avoid making Exceptional characters too disconnected or aloof from other characters or the story world.
• Avoid making Exceptional characters too predictable or stereotypical.

Negatives of being exceptional

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

• Facing high expectations or pressure to always perform at a certain level
• Feeling like you have to constantly prove yourself or defend your abilities
• Dealing with jealousy or resentment from others who may feel threatened by your exceptionalism
• Difficulty relating to or empathizing with others who may not share your level of talent or skill
• Feeling like you can never truly relax or take a break because there is always more to achieve
• Struggling with imposter syndrome or feeling like you don't deserve your success
• Feeling isolated or disconnected from others who may not understand your experiences or abilities

Positives of being exceptional

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

• They often possess unique skills or talents that can be valuable in various situations.
• They are often driven to succeed and achieve their goals, which can be motivating for those around them.
• Exceptional individuals tend to have a strong sense of purpose and direction in their lives.
• They can be excellent problem-solvers, able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to challenges.
• Exceptional people tend to be confident and self-assured, which can inspire others around them.
• Exceptional individuals stand out from the crowd and are memorable.

Verbal expressions of exceptional characters

Here are some potential expressions used by exceptional characters.

• Inspiring and motivating others through speech
• Providing constructive feedback and critique in a respectful manner
• Being persuasive and convincing in argumentation
• Asking thoughtful and insightful questions
• Expressing complex ideas with clarity and ease
• Demonstrating a deep understanding of a subject matter through discourse
• Using sophisticated vocabulary and precise language
• Conveying confidence and conviction in one's words
• Articulating a unique perspective or point of view

Relationships of exceptional characters

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

• They may also have a tendency to be dominant or assertive, which can create power struggles in relationships.
• Exceptional people may have a strong sense of individualism, which can lead to conflicts with others who have different priorities or values.
• Exceptional people may have a creative or unconventional approach to problem-solving, which can inspire others to think outside the box.
• However, their non-conformity can also lead to tension or misunderstandings with those who are more traditional or conservative in their thinking.
• Exceptional people may also have a high level of integrity and a strong moral compass, which can earn them respect and trust from others.
• They may also have a natural charisma or charm that draws people to them, which can make them popular or influential.
• On the other hand, exceptional people may have a great deal of empathy and emotional intelligence, which can help them form deep connections with others.

Examples from books of characters who are exceptional

• Hermione Granger from the "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
• Elizabeth Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Katniss Everdeen from "The Hunger Games" trilogy by Suzanne Collins
• Holden Caulfield from "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
• Bilbo Baggins from "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Sherlock Holmes from the series of the same name by Arthur Conan Doyle
• Jay Gatsby from "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• Odysseus from "The Odyssey" by Homer

Writing exercises for writing exceptional characters

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

• Write a scene in which your exceptional character is forced to confront the downsides of their trait. For example, an exceptionally creative character might struggle with self-doubt or perfectionism, or an exceptionally athletic character might experience burnout or injury.
• Consider how your character's exceptional trait might affect their relationships with others. Do they inspire envy or admiration? Do they struggle to connect with people who don't share their interests or abilities?
• Begin by brainstorming a list of exceptional traits that you'd like your character to have. This could include things like intelligence, creativity, athleticism, or leadership abilities.
• Write a scene in which your character's exceptional trait is on full display. This could be a moment of triumph, or it could be a scene in which they are faced with a challenge that only their exceptional trait can help them overcome.
• Create a character who serves as a foil to your exceptional character. This character should lack the exceptional trait in question, and their interactions with your exceptional character should help to highlight their differences.
• Consider how your character's exceptional trait might manifest in their daily life. For example, an exceptionally intelligent character might read voraciously, solve puzzles effortlessly, or excel in academic pursuits.