In his book “The Road to Character,”  author David Brooks presents an insightful distinction between two types of virtues: “resume virtues” and “eulogy virtues.”

Resume virtues are the skills and qualities that feature on professional resumes, such as intelligence, expertise, technical skills, and achievements. We are encouraged to focus on these traits to climb the career ladder and attain financial success. 

Eulogy virtues are the qualities people remember and cherish about us when we are no longer around: kindness, compassion, honesty, integrity, courage, and humility. 

The warning is to avoid spending so much time consumed by resume virtues that we neglect eulogy virtues. Speaking as a pastor who has given many eulogies, the qualities that define our impact on the world and the lives of others are not necessarily found on our resumes.

Pastor Jamey

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Question to Consider

Reflecting on your current priorities, do you focus more on developing resume virtues or eulogy virtues? What are some specific ways you could shift your focus if needed?

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, Grant us the wisdom to cultivate kindness, compassion, honesty, integrity, courage, and humility. May we strive not only for the accomplishments that fill our resumes but for the character that will be remembered long after we are gone. Amen.