Character Trait: Calm

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait Calm refers to the ability to maintain a sense of inner peace and composure in the face of stress or difficult situations. A calm person can remain level-headed, think clearly, and make rational decisions even when under pressure. This trait is often associated with a sense of tranquility and emotional stability, and can be an asset in many different areas of life, including personal relationships, work, and creative pursuits.

Possible causes of being calm

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

• Genetics or inherited traits
• Personal temperament or disposition
• Life experiences that promote perspective and patience
• Learned coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety
• Exposure to calming activities such as yoga or nature walks
• Practice of mindfulness or meditation
• Cultivation of emotional intelligence and self-awareness
• Upbringing and environment

For detailed feedback on calm characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's critique report.

Behaviors associated with being calm

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

• Avoiding aggressive or confrontational language
• Maintaining steady eye contact
• Using deliberate body language, such as relaxed shoulders and open posture
• Responding thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively
• Taking breaks to recharge and refocus if necessary
• Remaining focused on the present moment
• Speaking in a measured, even tone
• Taking deep breaths to regulate emotions

Attitudes associated with being calm

You may be able to show calm through their attitudes.

• A willingness to compromise and find common ground
• A preference for peaceful and serene environments
• An inclination to listen and understand others' viewpoints before responding
• A relaxed demeanor
• A tendency to stay composed in stressful situations
• An ability to think rationally and logically, rather than react emotionally
• A tendency to avoid conflict and seek harmony
• An ability to control one's emotions and reactions

Thoughts and struggles associated with being calm

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

• The calm character may struggle with decision-making because they are so even-tempered and may have trouble weighing the pros and cons of different options.
• They may have a tendency to internalize their emotions, which can lead to pent-up frustration or resentment if not addressed.
• A calm character may appear collected and composed on the surface, but they may actually be struggling with anxiety or worry internally.
• They may also struggle with assertiveness because they don't want to disrupt the peace or upset others.
• They may find it difficult to express their emotions or connect with others on a deeper level because they are so focused on maintaining their calm demeanor.
• The calm character may have a strong sense of empathy and may be highly attuned to the emotions of those around them, which can sometimes be overwhelming.
• They may also struggle with self-doubt and may need validation from others to feel confident in their decisions.
• A calm character may be perceived as passive or indecisive by others, which can lead to feelings of frustration or inadequacy.

Emotions associated with being calm

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

• Composure
• Relaxation
• Serenity
• Restfulness
• Poise
• Tranquility
• Stillness
• Equanimity
• Peacefulness

Facial expressions associated with being calm

Here are some facial expressions your calm character may exhibit.

• Stillness in the face and body
• Smooth forehead
• Steady gaze
• Softened eyebrows
• Slow, even breathing
• Lack of tension in the neck and shoulders
• Slight smile
• Relaxed jaw and mouth

Body language associated with being calm

Here is some body language your calm character may exhibit.

• Steady eye contact
• Lack of sudden or jerky movements
• Slow and controlled breathing
• Soft and even tone of voice
• Lack of tension in facial muscles
• Minimal fidgeting or movement
• Open body language with arms uncrossed
• Relaxed posture with shoulders down
• Slow and deliberate movements

For detailed feedback on calm characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's critique report.

Behaviors associated with being calm

Here are some behaviors your calm character may exhibit.

• Using deliberate body language, such as relaxed shoulders and open posture
• Taking deep breaths to regulate emotions
• Remaining focused on the present moment
• Avoiding aggressive or confrontational language
• Taking breaks to recharge and refocus if necessary
• Responding thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively
• Maintaining steady eye contact
• Speaking in a measured, even tone

Growth and evolution of calm characters

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

• Develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding towards others
• Learn to communicate more effectively and assertively without becoming aggressive
• Learn to take calculated risks and step outside their comfort zone
• Become more resilient and adaptable to change or unexpected events
• Learn to forgive and let go of grudges or past resentments
• Develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and mindfulness
• Develop a greater sense of patience and tolerance towards others
• Learn to control their emotions better and become less reactive to stressors

Stereotypes of calm characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical calm character like these examples.

• Lack of empathy or concern for others
• Lack of expression or enthusiasm
• Perpetual state of being relaxed without any tension or conflict
• Unresponsive or unengaged with their surroundings
• Inability to cope with stress or pressure
• Bland or unmemorable personality
• Monotone or dull speech patterns
• Lack of initiative or passivity
• Emotionless or robotic behavior

Negatives of being calm

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

• Being too calm can also lead to a lack of urgency and motivation to take action, leading to missed opportunities.
• Being calm in all situations can make a person seem emotionless or unapproachable.
• People who are always calm may be perceived as being indifferent or uninterested in the concerns of others, which can damage relationships.
• Calm individuals might struggle to express their feelings or stand up for themselves when necessary.

Positives of being calm

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

• Being calm can reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health.
• It promotes emotional stability and helps you avoid impulsive decisions.
• Calmness can inspire trust and confidence in others.
• Calmness allows you to approach situations with a clear and level-headed mind.
• It helps you maintain focus and stay productive in high-pressure situations.
• It can lead to better communication and conflict resolution skills.

Verbal expressions of calm characters

Here are some potential expressions used by calm characters.

• Avoiding interrupting others
• Using positive language and avoiding negative comments
• Being a good listener
• Using soothing words and phrases
• Speaking in a measured tone
• Avoiding raising one's voice
• Being patient and understanding in conversation
• Speaking slowly and deliberately
• Using humor to diffuse tense situations

Relationships of calm characters

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

• Calm people often have a calming effect on others, and can help diffuse tense or stressful situations.
• Calm people are often good listeners and strive to understand other people's perspectives.
• They may have a nurturing or supportive role in relationships, as they tend to be reliable and dependable.
• They tend to be patient and forgiving, which can make them great mediators or peacemakers in conflicts.
• Calm people may struggle to assert themselves or set boundaries in relationships, which can lead to them being taken advantage of or feeling resentful.

Examples from books of characters who are calm

• Yoda from "Star Wars" by George Lucas
• Mr. Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Gandalf from "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Haymitch Abernathy from "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins
• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• King Arthur from "Le Morte d'Arthur" by Sir Thomas Malory
• Elinor Dashwood from "Sense and Sensibility" by Jane Austen
• Maester Aemon from "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin
• Remy the rat from "Ratatouille" by Pixar

Writing exercises for writing calm characters

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

• Write a scene where your character diffuses a tense situation with their calm demeanor.
• Create a situation where your character is forced to remain calm in a high-pressure situation, such as a crisis or emergency.
• Describe the internal thoughts and emotions your character experiences when they are calm. What is their mindset like?
• Describe your character's body language when they are calm. Do they have a relaxed posture? Do they speak slowly and deliberately?
• Write a dialogue between your character and someone who is angry or upset. Show how your character's calmness affects the other person's emotions.
• Show how your character uses logic and reason to approach problems calmly and rationally.
• Have your character engage in a calming activity, such as meditation or yoga.
• Write a scene where your character comforts someone who is upset or anxious.