--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: We have the agency to choose which…" description: "\"We have the agency to choose which characteristics will define us; those choices are not thrust upon us.\" — Dallin H. Oaks" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a13/dallin-h-oaks-2042_agency_we-have-the-agency-to-choose-which-chara_2196863.png" --- # We have the agency to choose which characteristics will… ![“We have the agency to choose which characteristics will define us; those choices are not thrust upon us.” quote by Dallin H. Oaks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a13/dallin-h-oaks-2042_agency_we-have-the-agency-to-choose-which-chara_2196863.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a13/dallin-h-oaks-2042_agency_we-have-the-agency-to-choose-which-chara_2196863.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a13/dallin-h-oaks-2042_agency_we-have-the-agency-to-choose-which-chara_2196863.png) > “We have the agency to choose which characteristics will define us; those choices are not thrust upon us.” [Dallin H. Oaks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/dallin-h-oaks/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. We possess the power to select the traits that define us, rather than having them imposed upon us. **In simple terms:** We choose our defining traits, not fate. Key Takeaway Take responsibility for personal development. Themes self‑determination choice identity agency personal growth Mood empowered reflective motivational Type philosophical inspirational self‑help When to use this quote - career planning - education - habit formation - leadership - spiritual practice Key Concepts philosophy psychology ethics self‑concept Questions to Reflect On - Which traits do you actively cultivate? - How do societal expectations affect your choices? A Different Perspective External pressures can limit perceived freedom. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Choices](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/choices/) ## Related quotes > [Characteristics which define beauty are wholeness, harmony and radiance.](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/thomas-aquinas/characteristics-which-define-beauty-are-wholeness-harmony-and-radiance/) [Thomas Aquinas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/thomas-aquinas/) > [The aim of New Deals is to exterminate the class of creditors and thrust all men into that of debtors. 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