Good Traits Gone Bad

Good Traits Gone Bad

Let's take some good traits and take them to their worst possible conclusions, twisting them into something negative. This works well for writers who want to send good characters to the dark side or create twist villains.

You may also enjoy my post 'Bad Traits Gone Good' which can work for redemption arcs, or just for writing morally grey characters.

 

 

Independence

They value independence to the point where they shut others out and don’t accept help

 

Ambition

Ruthlessness. They’ll do anything to get their goals, even stepping over their friends.

 

Generosity

They make themselves a martyr, sacrificing their own well-being for others to the point of self-destruction.

 

Loyalty

They’re loyal to a fault, blindly following someone even if that person is cruel or wrong.

 

Courage

They become reckless. They take stupid risks and put their life in danger.

 

Determination

They’re stubborn, refusing to compromise, charging confidently down the wrong path.

 

Optimism

They refuse to see reality. They’re in denial. This means they don’t take precautions, and sometimes they let their friends feel unheard.

 

Charisma

They can be manipulative, using their social skills to trick & deceive to get their own way.

 

Integrity

They stick so firmly to their pre-determined values that they’re inflexible, closed off to change, progress or new perspectives.

 

Sympathy

Their concern for your wellbeing crosses the line into prying & crossing boundaries.

 

Patience

Their patience frustrates people. They believe the bad will blow over, leading to passivity.

 

Confidence

They’re arrogant, thinking everything they do is fabulous, even when they’re wrong.

 

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Humility

They constantly downplay their own worth and abilities to the point of self-deprecation.

 

Intelligence

Cunning. Instead of using intelligence for good, they use it for deceit, trickery and personal gain.

For more writing content, check out Writing Club by School of Plot, my writing podcast. It's available on:

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