The virtue of Courage entails the exercise of will to hold one's beliefs and accomplish goals in the face of opposition, either external or internal. Courageous people counteract difficulties inherent in the human condition, temptations that need to be resisted, or motivation that needs to be checked or rechannelled.

Psychologist Dr Martin Seligman defined four character strengths under this virtue as Bravery, Persistence, Honesty and Zest.

Bravery

Bravery is the disposition to voluntarily do what needs to be done despite fear, in an effort to obtain or preserve some perceived good for oneself or others.

Persistence

A persistent person voluntarily continues a goal-directed action in spite of obstacles, difficulties, or discouragement. He or she musters one's will to resist the temptation to do something easier or more pleasurable.

Honesty

Honesty refers to moral probity and self-unity. It is with this character trait that people are true to themselves, accurately presenting – privately and publicly – their internal states, intentions, and commitments, and willing to take full responsibility for themselves.

Zest

People with Zest have subjective experience of energy and aliveness, being full of passion, and displaying enthusiasm for various activities. They are fully engaged in their lives and work, and are willing to take challenges in life.

Courage is an essential virtue for every police officer. Through further developing the above character strengths, colleagues could bring the virtue of Courage into full play, enabling them to be more confident at work and have more satisfaction and enjoyment in their lives.

A full version of this article, with suggestions on how officers can apply their own character strengths in their daily life, will be uploaded to the Police Intranet (POINT), and the website of the Psychological Services Group.