Creating characters and listening to them as I write their stories is one of my favorite parts of the writing process. But not every character feels as intimate as the next, which begs the question–why? Quite simply, underdeveloped backstory has not allowed me to discover what really ticks off my failing character. I have not figured out what or who they resent and why.

According to dictionary.com, resentment is the feeling of displeasure or indignation at some act, remark, person, etc., regarded as causing injury or insult. To feel resentment is to be human. How we react physically and emotionally when faced with the person who has injured us in some way ultimately reveals character. We can bottle our emotion and fight the battle internally, lash out at the person violently, or act anywhere in between. Resentment can eventually lead to forgiveness and healing, remain the same throughout life, or lead to acts of revenge.

Regardless of how you create characters for your stories, do not forget to consider who or what induces a negative reaction and how that will play a role in your story. It’s an easy topic to research. Just pay attention to your own feelings for a day.