BOLD DEFINITION:having an intrepid spirit CATEGORIES:achievement, identity, interactive SIMILAR ATTRIBUTES:assertive, audacious, gutsy, nervy POSSIBLE CAUSES: The desire to prove oneself High self-confidence The tendency to be consumed by one’s goals Fearlessness Being driven by a strong sense of righteousness The belief in a higher power or purpose Desiring to know the truth at all costs ASSOCIATED BEHAVIORS: Assertiveness Coming up with unconventional solutions Speaking one’s mind even when one’s opinion isn’t popular Enthusiasm; being energetic Positivity Taking risks Being highly extroverted Acting in a way that inspires others; leading by example Making decisions without hesitation Being the first to speak with or greet others Having open body posture Trying new things; seeking out new experiences Taking the initiative (planning events, making suggestions, flirting, etc.) Dressing and behaving confidently Entertaining ideas that most others would dismiss (a radical career change or move, etc.) Asking for what one wants or needs Openness and transparency Not beating around the bush Pushing limits and boundaries Having a strong gut instinct Being one’s own advocate Taking responsibility without hesitation Challenging rules or conditions that don’t make sense Not being held back by fear Having strong convictions Not caring what others think Embracing innovation Being goal oriented Looking within to determine what one really wants, then pursuing it Not being fazed by rejection or failure; bouncing back quickly Friendliness Encouraging others to go after their dreams Handling stress and adversity head-on Decisiveness Refusing to be a people-pleaser ASSOCIATED THOUGHTS: I’ve been with this bank so long; I bet they’ll waive this fee if I ask. I don’t understand Cara. If she thinks she deserves a raise, why not ask for it? This cross-country bike tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I can’t wait! I am so sick of these snotty boating club events. Dad will be pissed, but I’m done with them. ASSOCIATED EMOTIONS:confidence, desire, determination, eagerness, hopefulness, pride POSITIVE ASPECTS:Bold characters are go-getters; they know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it. When it comes to pursuing their goals, they are able to take the ups with the downs and maintain forward momentum. People are often drawn to their confidence and willingness to stand up for what they believe in. The fearlessness of these characters makes them good leaders and strong protagonists. NEGATIVE ASPECTS:Boldness can seem overwhelming to certain kinds of people. Shy or insecure characters may find such fearless determination intimidating and even be turned off by it. Bold characters commit quickly, making things difficult for partners, co-workers, or potential love interests who want to take things slowly. Because of their convictions, these characters have a hard time backing away from what they believe to be the most direct course, and can come across as being uncooperative, self-serving, or pushy to others. EXAMPLE FROM FILM:Despite his unconventional history as a white man brought up by Native Americans, Hawkeye (The Last of the Mohicans) exhibits a boldness that often results in achieving his desired results. In the face of open hostility, he remains loyal to his Mohican family. When he sets his sights on Cora, he pursues her regardless of the many obstacles in his way. In every situation, he speaks his mind with confidence, regardless of the opposition.Other Examples from Film:Maximus Decimus Meridius (Gladiator), Frank Slade (Scent of a Woman) TRAITS IN SUPPORTING CHARACTERS THAT MAY CAUSE CONFLICT:calm, cautious, cowardly, irresponsible, patient, timid, whimsical, worrywart CHALLENGING SCENARIOS FOR THE BOLD CHARACTER: PLOTLINE: Having a rival with the same desire or goal who is equally bold and determined to achieve it PLOTLINE: Wanting something that one cannot have (a relationship with a happily married woman, etc.) PLOTLINE: Finding oneself in a situation where boldness is the wrong tactic (dealing with an abuse victim, etc.) PLOTLINE: Wanting something that will do one harm (revenge, etc.)