as i started working the steps-for one, step 4, i found it painful to look at my character defects. but i knew i needed to do it to stay sober. it was suggested i list character defects but also the character assets i possessed. if we just look at the negatives we can beat ourselves up and find the task overwhelming. so i drew a line down the middle of my paper. one side was titled "assets", the other "defects of character". of course i listed more defects at first but as time went on i added more assets too. no one is perfect. we practice "progress not perfection". but we can work to minimize our defects. such as anger. i used to get angry and lash out. i prided myself in this ability.(false pride and ego). what i did was to learn how to channel my reaction of anger by dealing with that feeling in a healthier way. this took practice but today for the most part i am able to calm my anger in a constructive way. that includes the feelings of other people and respecting them. here's a helpful tho not complete list of character defects.