Every individual has a character and defining values, a personal ethos, if only by default. The Founders were keen to develop a personal ethos that provided goals, guidance and purpose to their lives. Then, as now, serious people sought a balance between passion and caution - a grounding force and framework of personal morality to allow one to withstand challenges and pressures that often come suddenly and unexpectantly. Know where and why you stand on important issues before the inevitable tests are thrust upon you. Cultivating your own personal ethos requires self-awareness and honesty, with yourself and others. ​The modern American patriot can do well to learn and adopt the attributes of the original patriots but should take care to cultivate their own. The American fabric and history are replete with noble characters who, by example, provide a range of practices, qualities and virtues to emulate and embrace. Other players, misguided by their lesser angels, can provide lessons on what not to do or what not to become. Both are instructive.

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Apart from the key attributes of the Founders cited above, some common elements to consider:

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Define your Purpose in Life and Commit to its Fulfillment

Concentrate on Social Communications and Personal Interactions  

Avoid Displays of Emotional Extremes

Focus Energies - Be Selective on What you Spend Your Precious Time

Expand Your Frame of Reference – See the Mountain from all Sides

Maintain Moral Integrity & Self-Esteem

Develop an Understanding of Universal Love

Accept and Encourage Constant Change

Learn to be Resourceful and Adaptable

Highlight Learning, Travel and Exploration

Learn the Value of Persistence and Tenacity

Be Wary of Silent and Unseen Barriers

Deny Artificial Cultural Barriers 

Develop Workable Systems of Self Discipline

Strive for Plenty Instead of Wealth

Venture Out of Your Comfort Zone  

Visualize and Clearly Define Goals

Develop Strong Concentration

Never Trust to Luck but Accept Its Fate

Do Not Deceive Yourself or Others

Develop Art of Written Correspondence

Cultivate the Art of Compliment and Insult

Respect Advice of Others but Make Yourself the Final Judge

Choose Your Friends Carefully­ Especially Lovers

Success Demands Sacrifice - Have the Will to Prepare

Develop Physical Stamina - Avoid Excesses and Dependencies

Be Fair and Responsible to Those Around You

Recognize and Seize the Opportunity

Develop a Sense of Humor and Humility

Cultivate Persons of Power and Wealth

Avoid Both Procrastination and Over-discipline

Never be Greedy or Unscrupulous

Enjoy and Support the Arts, Culture and Music

Do Not be a Victim - Always Question Your Role as Such

Value and Revere Family and Friends

Adopt and Practice Secrecy and Stealth – Learn to be Invisible

Be Kind and Merciful to those that Deserve that Favor

Crush your Enemies with Quiet Ruthlessness

Share Your Experience and Teach Others Honestly

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