The greatest gift you can give this world is knowing yourself intimately.
The death of society is the comparison we draw between ourselves and those around us. Most of the time, we do it because we do not understand ourselves completely.
The lack of understanding of ourselves causes us to envy the person next to us, and we start wishing we were more like them, believing that they are better equipped to succeed in life.
However, nothing could be further from the truth.
I firmly believe that success is not because of who we are, where we come from, our background or our circumstances. Success comes from the freedom we find in truly knowing and understanding ourselves.
The more we know and understand about ourselves, the more we are positioned to gain the skills we need to accomplish the fullness of what we want out of this life. Then and only then will we be able to navigate life successfully to reach our full potential and build the life we desire.
It all starts with knowing our temperament type. This means the inborn traits we have had since birth.
Our temperament type influences how we act, handle stress, and get along with others. When things get tough, our inborn traits play a significant role in how we behave and how things turn out. That’s why it’s paramount to understand our temperament type and how it affects us, especially in challenging situations.
Once we fully understand our predominant inborn traits, including our strengths and weaknesses, we can learn how to manage them to better position ourselves to succeed in all areas of our lives, including relationships with ourselves and others.
There are four primary temperament types. Each with unique traits, strengths, and weaknesses.
Phlegmatic
Phlegmatic individuals have a unique temperament that sets them apart. They are known for their calm and relaxed nature. You might often find them quiet and unassuming, observing from the sidelines rather than seeking the limelight. They have a knack for staying composed even amid chaos.
These “chill” friends are always there when you need them. While they may not be the ones who initiate conversations or draw attention to themselves, they are reliable. You can count on them to offer support and assistance.
Their laid-back demeanour allows them to approach situations with a level-headed attitude. They rarely let stress or panic get the best of them. Instead, they maintain a sense of peace and stability, which can be incredibly comforting for those around them.
One of the strengths of phlegmatic individuals lies in their exceptional listening skills. They are attentive and patient, providing a safe space for others to share their thoughts and feelings. When you need someone to lend an ear or offer advice, they are the ones you can turn to. Their ability to understand and empathize with others often makes them excellent confidants and trusted friends.
Phlegmatics are not quick to jump into action or make impulsive decisions. They prefer to carefully look at situations and gather all the information before proceeding. This thoughtfulness allows them to offer wise and well-thought-out advice when asked.
While they may appear reserved, phlegmatic individuals are warm and compassionate. They genuinely care about the well-being of others and will go the extra mile to help someone in need.
In a group setting, phlegmatics often play the role of peacemakers. They have a knack for diffusing conflicts and promoting harmony among others. Their ability to see different perspectives and remain unbiased helps them mediate disputes and find common ground.
Melancholy
Melancholy individuals have a unique temperament that sets them apart. They are known for their thoughtful and sensitive nature. These individuals possess a deep capacity for introspection and often delve into the complexities of life and emotions.
Sometimes, they focus more on the negative side of things. They may be more inclined to notice and dwell on the challenges and difficulties in life.
However, this inclination comes from their deep emotions and desire to understand the world better. While it can be challenging, this sensitivity also allows them to see things differently.
They often channel their deep emotions and introspection into various art forms, such as painting, writing, music, or poetry. Through their creative expressions, they bring meaning and beauty to the world. Their works often touch the hearts of others, resonating with the human experience and evoking profound emotions.
While they may be more prone to experiencing intense emotions, melancholic individuals also possess deep empathy and understanding. They can easily relate to the struggles and pain that people go through, often offering a comforting presence and a listening ear to those in need.
Their sensitivity and thoughtfulness also enable them to see beyond the surface and understand the deeper layers of human experiences. They have a unique perspective on life, often questioning the status quo and seeking profound meaning in their interactions and relationships.
Despite their inclination towards introspection, melancholic individuals can form deep and meaningful connections with others. They value authenticity and appreciate genuine connections built on shared emotions and understanding. They cherish relationships that allow them to express their true selves and engage in deep conversations about life’s complexities.
Choleric
Choleric individuals possess a temperament that sets them apart as natural-born go-getters. They are driven, ambitious, and eager to take on new challenges. These individuals have a strong desire to achieve their goals and are not afraid to put in the hard work and dedication required to make things happen.
Choleric individuals are known for their determination and unwavering focus. They have a clear vision of what they want to accomplish and are willing to go the extra mile to turn their dreams into reality. They set high standards for themselves and have a relentless pursuit of excellence.
One of the defining characteristics of choleric individuals is their ability to take charge and lead. They step into leadership roles and guide others towards success. They possess the confidence and assertiveness to make tough decisions and drive projects forward. Choleric individuals are often seen as strong-willed and authoritative, but this comes from their drive to achieve results.
While choleric individuals may be highly goal-oriented, they may not always display sympathy or patience. Their focus on results can sometimes overshadow their ability to empathize with others’ emotions.
However, it’s important to note that this does not mean they lack compassion or care for others. Their main priority is often achieving their objectives, and they may need to work on balancing their drive with empathy to create harmonious relationships.
Choleric individuals thrive in business and life because they possess the necessary qualities to excel. They have a natural knack for strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. They take risks and push boundaries to achieve their desired outcomes. Their ambition and determination drive them to constantly seek opportunities for growth and advancement.
These individuals are like the leaders who make things happen. They influence those around them and can motivate and inspire others to achieve their full potential. Choleric individuals often take charge of projects and initiatives, guiding teams towards success with their natural leadership abilities.
Sanguine
Sanguine individuals have a temperament that sets them apart as social butterflies. They possess a natural charm and an infectious enthusiasm that draws others towards them. These individuals thrive on social interactions and find joy in connecting with people from all walks of life.
Sanguine individuals are known for their optimistic outlook on life. They have a positive attitude and a sunny disposition that radiates positivity and energy. Their optimism is contagious, and they uplift the spirits of those around them.
One of the defining characteristics of sanguine individuals is their love for socializing. They enjoy being in the company of others and find fulfilment in building and nurturing relationships. These individuals are often the life of the party, effortlessly making friends and creating a lively atmosphere wherever they go.
They genuinely care about others’ problems and are always ready to lend a helping hand. They have a natural empathy and a strong desire to impact the lives of those around them. Sanguine individuals are often seen as compassionate and nurturing, providing a supportive presence to those in need.
However, being alone can be challenging for them. They thrive on the energy and excitement that social interactions bring. The absence of social stimuli can leave them feeling restless and unfulfilled. They find solace and joy in the company of others who struggle with loneliness when they lack social connections.
This is an overview of the four temperaments types.
We often have a predominant temperament type but can also have traits, strengths and weaknesses of the other temperaments. Consider this when you use the Free Worksheet to further explore your temperament type and gain a deeper understanding of the uniqueness within you.
Remember, the most valuable journey you can embark on is the journey within yourself. Embrace it, learn from it, and let your understanding of who you are shape the incredible person you’re meant to become.
Talk again soon
Belinda Pieterse — ReDefine