Sometimes I need to listen to my own characters. In Fernpeople, Janna tells stories when her strength ebbs, and the stories strengthen her. I’m a storyteller too, so I can identify with that. I’m sure that sounds strange since I’m the author, but I bet other authors know what I mean!! Your characters can be bigger than you are!
Petten becomes furious when he hears discouraging news and rushes into action without regarding the people with him. It’s not until Benk yells at him that he sees what he’s done, but he immediately recognizes his mistake and works to change. Okay, yes, I suppose I could work on admitting fault instead of pointing out all the faults of other people–over and over again, an unending poisonous spiral that isn’t worth it.
Benk withdraws when he gets discouraged. He doesn’t want to talk about it; he just withdraws and tells himself negative things. Unfortunately, I can identify with this too. The self-enforced quiet makes him more understanding of other people, but it’s not until he breaks down before the Maker that he is freed of the weight of his own mistakes.