Do You Know What Qualities Characterize A Current Hero?

Who has never dreamed of being a hero, even in childhood? What characteristics or qualities make a person a hero? Is there a hero gene? Many experts believe that it is possible for people to learn to be heroes. And you, do you have what it takes?

Believe it or not, we are all potential heroes waiting for a moment in life to take heroic action. Acting heroically is an option that may present itself at some point. At that time, many discover that they are capable of doing things unimaginable for them. But one thing is a heroic act and another is a hero’s life.

We can all be heroes

We all admire someone, we have one or more reference heroes, whether real or fictional. In all of them we observe characteristics that we admire. And if we admire them, it is because we would like to be like them. But it is possible?

According to a recent study, conducted by Zeno Franco and Philip Zimbardo, the answer could lie in what kind of heroism we are tackling. Researchers have found that people who have engaged in acts of bravery on occasion (such as rescuing someone from being run over or putting their life at risk to help others) are not necessarily very different from non-control groups. heroes.

In contrast, people who engage in heroism on a daily basis do share various personality traits, such as empathy, affection for others, and a need to live by a moral code. This is the case of people who work in the security forces, emergency medical personnel, people who work with people at social risk, etc.

As the study authors say, being a hero is not simply being a good role model or a popular sports figure. They believe it is re-examining the historical meanings of the word “hero.” Today it is possible to foster what we call “heroic imagination” or the development of a personal heroic ideal. This heroic ideal can help guide a person’s behavior in times of moral difficulty or uncertainty.

Qualities to be a hero

Many experts believe that it is possible for people to learn to be heroes.  Here are some of the main characteristics that researchers have attributed to heroes that can be developed with the right dedication.

1 – They are interested in the welfare of others

People who become heroes tend to be interested in the welfare of others. According to the researchers, empathy and compassion for others are key variables that contribute to heroic behavior.

People who rush to help others in the face of danger and adversity do so because they genuinely care about the safety and well-being of other people. Along the same lines, other studies have also found that people who have heroic tendencies also have a higher degree of empathy.

2 – They put themselves in each other’s shoes

Heroes are able to see things from the perspective of others.  The researchers suggest that heroes are not only compassionate and supportive, but also have a knack for seeing things from the perspective of others.

But, in addition to being able to put on other people’s shoes, they are able to walk a long way in them. Thus, when they come across a situation where an individual is in need, they are immediately able to see themselves in that same situation immediately and see what needs to be done to help.

3 – They are competent and feel safe

Heroes are competent and confident people. After all, helping someone requires both the ability to do something and the self-confidence necessary to feel capable of doing what needs to be done.

Researchers suggest that people who perform heroic deeds tend to have confidence in themselves and in their abilities. In this way, when faced with a crisis, heroes truly believe that they are capable of handling the challenge and achieving success regardless of the odds. Some of this confidence may stem from the fact that they have above-average skills, as well as tools to manage stress.

4 – They live by high values

Heroes have a great moral code that governs their day to day, both in their personal life and in their social and work life. This may be one of the most striking traits, as well as one of the most difficult to find.

According to the researchers, heroes have two essential qualities that differentiate them from non-heroes: they live by their values ​​and are willing to take personal risk to protect those values. Their personal values ​​and beliefs give them the courage and determination necessary to endure risk and danger.

5 – They are able to stand up to fear

A person who rushes into a burning building to save someone else does so not just because he is extremely brave, but because he is able to overcome fear. The researchers suggest that heroic individuals are positive by nature, which contributes to their ability to look beyond the immediate danger posed by a situation and see a more optimistic outcome.

In many cases, these individuals may also have a higher tolerance for risk. Many people freeze in the face of danger or simply do not take the step when they feel the least risk. However, people who display a heroic attitude are often more likely to take greater risks.

6 – They pursue their goals, despite obstacles

One of the characteristics of heroes is that they continue to work for objectives despite obstacles, even after suffering several setbacks. I mean, persistence is another common quality of heroes.

For example, it has been found that people identified as heroes are more likely to be positive in the face of negative events.