Character Trait: Able

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait Able refers to someone who is competent, skilled, and capable of doing things efficiently and effectively. An able character is someone who possesses the necessary qualities and abilities to accomplish their goals and overcome challenges. They are resourceful, dependable, and have a strong work ethic. Being able is not only limited to physical abilities but also includes mental, emotional, and intellectual capacities. An able character is someone who can adapt to changing situations and find solutions to problems.

Possible causes of being able

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

• Positive mindset and attitude towards challenges and obstacles
• Empathy and understanding of other people's perspectives and needs
• Prioritization of goals and focus on achieving them
• Confidence in one's abilities without being overconfident or arrogant
• Natural talent or aptitude in a particular area
• Strong work ethic and persistence
• Willingness to learn and improve oneself
• Emotional intelligence and ability to communicate effectively with others
• Ability to adapt to new situations and environments

For detailed feedback on able characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's story structure analyzer.

Behaviors associated with being able

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

• Making and keeping commitments
• Handling responsibilities and obligations effectively
• Adapting to changes and new situations
• Accomplishing tasks independently
• Demonstrating proficiency in a particular skill or talent
• Overcoming obstacles and challenges
• Taking initiative and being proactive
• Providing support and assistance to others
• Advocating for oneself and others

Attitudes associated with being able

You may be able to show able through their attitudes.

• Positivity
• Optimism
• Proactivity
• Self-sufficiency
• Self-reliance
• Confidence
• Tenacity
• Perseverance
• Adaptability
• Resilience
• Creativity
• Determination
• Resourcefulness
• Independence

Thoughts and struggles associated with being able

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

• Suffering from burnout or exhaustion from constantly pushing themselves to do more and be better
• Struggling to accept help or support from others, as they feel like they should be able to handle everything on their own
• Feeling like they are never good enough, no matter how much they achieve or accomplish
• Struggling to find a sense of balance between their own needs and responsibilities and their desire to help and support others
• Struggling with the fear of failure and making mistakes
• Feeling guilty or ashamed when they fall short of their own or others' expectations
• Striving for perfection in all aspects of their life, including their work, relationships, and personal goals
• Feeling a constant pressure to meet high expectations and exceed them

Emotions associated with being able

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

• Independence
• Empowerment
• Competence
• Strength
• Resourcefulness
• Mastery
• Capability
• Confidence
• Self-assuredness

Facial expressions associated with being able

Here are some facial expressions your able character may exhibit.

• Raised eyebrows that convey curiosity or interest
• A friendly and approachable look that invites interaction
• A calm and composed expression that shows control
• A confident smile
• A subtle smirk that indicates a sense of accomplishment
• Bright and alert eyes
• A nod of approval or agreement
• A relaxed and open facial expression
• A firm and steady gaze that exudes determination

Body language associated with being able

Here is some body language your able character may exhibit.

• Engaged eye contact with others.
• Upright posture and balanced stance.
• Smooth and purposeful movements when performing physical tasks.
• Steady and controlled breathing.
• Energetic gestures and expressions.
• Open and receptive gestures, such as uncrossed arms and legs.
• Active and confident movements.

For detailed feedback on able characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's story structure analyzer.

Behaviors associated with being able

Here are some behaviors your able character may exhibit.

• Demonstrating proficiency in a particular skill or talent
• Taking initiative and being proactive
• Advocating for oneself and others
• Handling responsibilities and obligations effectively
• Adapting to changes and new situations
• Overcoming obstacles and challenges
• Accomplishing tasks independently
• Providing support and assistance to others
• Making and keeping commitments

Growth and evolution of able characters

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

• Overcome biases and prejudices
• Become more confident and assertive
• Learn to forgive themselves and others
• Learn to overcome obstacles and limitations
• Discover their purpose or calling in life
• Cultivate new skills and abilities
• Discover inner strength and resilience
• Develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance
• Overcome past traumas or experiences
• Form deeper connections and relationships with others
• Develop a greater sense of empathy and compassion

Stereotypes of able characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical able character like these examples.

• Avoid portraying Able characters as always physically fit and healthy, with no chronic illnesses or disabilities.
• Avoid portraying Able characters as consistently heroic, always overcoming obstacles with ease and without any struggle or setback.
• Avoid portraying Able characters as always having a perfect memory and exceptional intelligence, with no cognitive or learning disabilities.
• Avoid portraying Able characters as entirely self-sufficient and independent, with no need for assistance or support from others.
• Avoid portraying Able characters as always positive and optimistic, never experiencing negative emotions or struggling with mental health.

Negatives of being able

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

• Able may struggle with delegation, wanting to do everything themselves instead of trusting others to help.
• Able may have a hard time accepting failure or mistakes, leading to a fear of taking risks.
• Able may come across as arrogant or overly confident.
• Able may struggle with empathy or understanding the struggles of those who are not as capable.

Positives of being able

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

• Able people possess a strong sense of independence and self-reliance.
• They are often known for their resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges and setbacks.
• Able people are often highly productive and efficient, making the most of their time and resources.
• Able people are often great communicators, able to express themselves clearly and effectively to others.
• They tend to be very proactive, taking initiative and seeking out opportunities for growth and development.
• Able individuals often have a positive outlook on life, focusing on their abilities rather than their limitations.
• They tend to be very resourceful and innovative, finding creative solutions to problems.
• Able individuals have a great ability to adapt to changing circumstances and situations.
• They are typically very goal-oriented and driven, with a strong sense of purpose and direction.

Verbal expressions of able characters

Here are some potential expressions used by able characters.

• "I have the skills"
• "I'm capable"
• "I'm skilled"
• "I'm able to handle it"
• "I'm qualified"
• "I'm efficient"
• "I'm confident"
• "I'm proficient"
• "I'm competent"
• "I'm ready to take on this task"
• "I can do it"
• "I'm up for the challenge"
• "I'm effective"

Relationships of able characters

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

• Able people may also struggle with asking for help or accepting support from others, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Able people may also be very focused on personal growth and self-improvement, which can lead to self-absorption or a lack of attention to others' needs and perspectives.
• They may prioritize achievement and success, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with others who prioritize different values.
• They may struggle with vulnerability and openness, preferring to keep their emotions and thoughts to themselves.
• They may also be very analytical and logical, which can sometimes make it difficult for them to connect emotionally with others.
• Able people may have a strong sense of independence and self-reliance, which can sometimes lead to difficulties in forming close relationships.

Examples from books of characters who are able

• Hazel Grace Lancaster from "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green
• Forrest Gump from "Forrest Gump" by Winston Groom
• Oskar Schell from "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" by Jonathan Safran Foer
• Louisa Clark from "Me Before You" by Jojo Moyes
• Christopher John Francis Boone from "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon
• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• Lisbeth Salander from "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson
• August Pullman from "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio
• Don Tillman from "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion

Writing exercises for writing able characters

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

• Write a scene where your character overcomes a physical or mental challenge that they initially believed they couldn't handle.
• Create a character who initially appears to have a disability or limitation but ultimately proves to be incredibly capable.
• Write a dialogue between your character and someone who doubts their ability. How does your character respond to criticism or skepticism?
• Create a scenario where your character has to make a difficult decision that requires them to tap into their abilities.
• Create a backstory that shows how the character developed their ability. For example, did they grow up in an environment where they were encouraged to develop their skills or did they have to work hard to overcome obstacles?
• Write a scene where your character takes charge and leads others through a difficult situation.
• Create a character who initially lacks ability but works hard to develop their skills and eventually becomes successful.
• Write a scene where your character teaches someone else a skill or helps them overcome a challenge.
• Write a scene where your character has to adapt to a new situation and use their abilities in a new way.