A.A. concept · Step Six
Character Defects
In A.A.’s language, character defects are patterns that have worked against a person’s peace, relationships, and recovery. Step Six turns recognition into readiness for change.
Entirely ready
Step Six does not ask for a performance of perfection. It asks for a serious willingness to let go of patterns that keep producing the same harm, and to become open to a different way of living.
A pattern is not a person
“Character defects” is Step language for conduct and attitudes that need attention. It is not a permanent identity, a diagnosis, or a reason to treat anyone as less worthy of respect.
From seeing to becoming ready
Notice the pattern
Look honestly at repeated attitudes, reactions, and choices rather than hiding behind excuses.
Understand its cost
See how the pattern affects serenity, other people, and the ability to practice the program.
Open the door
Become willing for the pattern to be changed instead of insisting that self-will must run everything.
What the phrase points toward
Self-centered fear
A.A. literature repeatedly connects defects with fear, demands, and the effort to protect the self at everyone else’s expense.
Repeated reactions
Impatience, resentment, dishonesty, or control are useful to examine when they keep returning and keep causing the same trouble.
A new response
The goal is not shame. The goal is the willingness to practice humility, responsibility, patience, and useful action.
Not a demand to erase personality
Step Six concerns the defects that obstruct recovery and peace. It does not require a person to become colorless, passive, or unlike themselves.
Not completed in isolation
A.A.’s sequence places this readiness after inventory and admission. Honest reflection, another person’s help, and the remaining Steps give it practical direction.
Official A.A. reading
These official A.A. pages and publications establish the Step Six wording and describe the movement from admission toward humility and change.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions · Step SixOfficial A.A. audio introduction to the spiritual purpose of Step Six.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions · Step SevenThe next-step discussion of humility, obstacles, and changed attitudes.
Daily Reflections · Listening DeeplyAn official reflection on recognizing patterns and learning a better response.