Character Trait: Dynamic

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait "dynamic" describes a character that undergoes significant changes and growth throughout the course of a story. A dynamic character is not static; instead, they evolve, learn, and develop as they face challenges and overcome obstacles. This trait is an essential element of a well-rounded and compelling character, as it adds depth and complexity to their personality and actions. Dynamic characters are memorable and relatable, as they often reflect the human experience of change and growth.

Possible causes of being dynamic

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

• Comfort with ambiguity and uncertainty
• Flexibility in thought and action
• Confidence in oneself and one's abilities
• Openness to learning and growth
• Willingness to listen and consider different viewpoints
• Desire to challenge oneself and push boundaries
• Exposure to diverse experiences and perspectives
• Willingness to take risks and try new things
• Strong sense of curiosity and creativity
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Strong emotional intelligence and self-awareness

Behaviors associated with being dynamic

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

• Taking initiative and being proactive
• Adapting to new situations and challenges
• Pursuing goals with passion and determination
• Being open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives
• Taking calculated risks and being comfortable with uncertainty
• Being confident and assertive when necessary
• Being charismatic and engaging with others
• Being resourceful and creative in problem-solving
• Being resilient and bouncing back from setbacks

Attitudes associated with being dynamic

You may be able to show dynamic through their attitudes.

• Adaptability
• A desire to grow and improve
• Flexibility
• A positive and optimistic outlook
• Resilience and perseverance
• Curiosity and eagerness to learn
• Open-mindedness
• Energy and drive
• Willingness to take risks

Thoughts and struggles associated with being dynamic

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

• They may struggle with conflicting beliefs, values, or desires.
• A dynamic character goes through a significant change or transformation throughout the story.
• They may grapple with their own flaws or weaknesses, and work to overcome them.
• They may experience a shift in their relationships with other characters as they change and develop.
• They may experience emotional turmoil as they confront difficult decisions or situations.
• They may face external challenges that force them to adapt and evolve in order to succeed.
• They may question their own identity or sense of self as they undergo personal growth.
• They may face a moral dilemma that challenges their worldview and forces them to re-evaluate their beliefs.

Emotions associated with being dynamic

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

• Drive
• Curiosity
• Charisma
• Spontaneity
• Ambition
• Energy
• Passion
• Adaptability
• Open-mindedness
• Flexibility
• Boldness
• Creativity
• Confidence
• Enthusiasm

Facial expressions associated with being dynamic

Here are some facial expressions your dynamic character may exhibit.

• A quick and energetic nod of the head
• A confident and assertive gaze
• A bright and genuine smile
• A furrowed brow that indicates deep concentration or concern
• Darting eyes that constantly scan the environment
• A look of determination or resolve in the eyes
• A smirk or grin that indicates a sense of humor or playfulness
• Expressive eyebrows that move up and down quickly
• A relaxed and easygoing expression that indicates confidence and comfort in one's own skin

Body language associated with being dynamic

Here is some body language your dynamic character may exhibit.

• Standing tall with good posture
• Moving quickly and purposefully
• Using facial expressions to convey excitement or passion
• Displaying a high energy level through movement and actions
• Speaking with confidence and enthusiasm
• Maintaining eye contact and engaging in active listening
• Using expansive gestures when communicating

Behaviors associated with being dynamic

Here are some behaviors your dynamic character may exhibit.

• Being open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives
• Being confident and assertive when necessary
• Being charismatic and engaging with others
• Taking initiative and being proactive
• Taking calculated risks and being comfortable with uncertainty
• Pursuing goals with passion and determination
• Adapting to new situations and challenges
• Being resilient and bouncing back from setbacks
• Being resourceful and creative in problem-solving

Growth and evolution of dynamic characters

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

• Acquisition of new skills or knowledge
• Overcoming of fears or weaknesses
• Development of new relationships or strengthening of existing ones
• Change in beliefs, values, or attitudes
• Shift in priorities or goals
• Transformation of personal identity or self-concept
• Learning to forgive or let go of grudges
• Realization of past mistakes and attempts to make amends
• Taking on new responsibilities or facing new challenges

Stereotypes of dynamic characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical dynamic character like these examples.

• Avoid making the character's change too simplistic or one-dimensional.
• Avoid making the character's change of heart too predictable or expected.
• Avoid relying on clichés or overused stereotypes such as the "bad boy with a heart of gold" or the "manic pixie dream girl."
• Avoid making the character's change of personality or behavior too extreme or unrealistic.
• Avoid making the character change too quickly or too conveniently to fit the plot.
• Avoid making the character change for the sake of change without a clear motivation or reason.

Negatives of being dynamic

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

• Can be unpredictable and unstable
• Can be seen as argumentative or confrontational
• Prone to impulsive behavior
• May struggle with commitment or consistency
• Difficulty in maintaining long-term relationships or friendships
• Tendency to become bored easily
• May come across as flaky or unreliable

Positives of being dynamic

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

• They often possess a certain charisma or energy that can draw other characters to them.
• Dynamic characters are often seen as exciting and engaging by readers.
• They have the ability to adapt and change, which can make them more relatable and realistic.
• Dynamic characters can be very interesting to write because they allow for growth and development over the course of a story.
• They are often very active and driven, making them good protagonists or leaders.

Verbal expressions of dynamic characters

Here are some potential expressions used by dynamic characters.

• Being spontaneous and adaptable in conversation
• Showing a willingness to take risks and try new things
• Being persuasive and convincing
• Speaking with energy and enthusiasm
• Using powerful and active verbs in speech
• Displaying confidence and assertiveness
• Being able to think on your feet and respond quickly to changes in the conversation
• Demonstrating passion and excitement for what you're discussing

Relationships of dynamic characters

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

• They may be seen as a reliable and trustworthy friend or partner.
• They may be skilled at navigating conflict and finding solutions that work for everyone involved.
• They may have a magnetic personality that draws people to them.
• They may have a strong sense of empathy and be able to relate to others easily.
• They may be comfortable taking risks and trying new things, encouraging others to do the same.
• They may be quick to connect with others on a deep level, forming strong bonds quickly.
• They may be seen as a leader or influencer among their social circle.
• They may be seen as a source of inspiration or motivation for others.
• They may have a large and diverse group of friends and acquaintances.

Examples from books of characters who are dynamic

• Jean Valjean from "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo
• Katniss Everdeen from "The Hunger Games" trilogy by Suzanne Collins
• Bilbo Baggins from "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Holden Caulfield from "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
• Jay Gatsby from "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• Harry Potter from the "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
• Ebenezer Scrooge from "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens
• Elizabeth Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Scarlett O'Hara from "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell

Writing exercises for writing dynamic characters

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

• Experiment with different writing styles or genres to see how they can impact your character's development. For example, writing a scene in the style of a horror movie can add tension and reveal new aspects of your character.
• Consider using the "yes, but" or "no, and" approach to storytelling. When your character is faced with a problem, have them either succeed but face a consequence or fail and have to deal with the aftermath.
• Write a scene where your character is faced with a challenge or obstacle that forces them to make a decision that goes against their usual behavior.
• Think about how your character interacts with other characters in the story. How do their relationships change as the story progresses?
• Start by defining what dynamic means to you in the context of your story. What kind of changes will your character go through?
• Create a character profile for your protagonist that includes their strengths, weaknesses, goals, fears, and motivations.
• Give your character a unique voice or way of speaking that reflects their personality and growth throughout the story.
• Use flashbacks or internal monologues to reveal your character's past experiences and how they shaped their current behavior.