Four Temperaments theory is an ancient system of categorization that defines personality traits and behavior. It was first developed by Hippocrates in the 4th century BC and was popularized by psychologist Carl Jung in the early 20th century.
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The Four Temperaments Theory is a useful tool for understanding how people interact with each other and the world. It divides personalities into four different types based on their likability, energy level, reactiveness, and sociability.
The four temperaments are sanguine (positive and upbeat), choleric (energetic and decisive), melancholic (analytical and introspective), and phlegmatic (relaxed and steady).
Each temperament has its own unique set of strengths, weaknesses, likes, dislikes, values, communication style, problem-solving approaches, and decision-making skills.
How To Learn Which Type Are You?
A widely accepted method of finding out a person’s temperament is taking the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). This assessment contains a series of questions that requires the participant to pick from two options for each question.
Once you know your temperament, it’s important to understand what it means and how it might affect your life.
Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, so understanding where you fit into the four temperaments theory can help you recognize what areas of your life you should work on.
Sanguine
The Sanguine temperament is the most enthusiastic and lively of the four.
People with this temperament are usually very social, enjoy physical contact, and are energized by being around others. They tend to be optimistic, spontaneous, talkative, and may have a hard time finishing tasks as they like to move on quickly to new ones.
People with this temperament often thrive in positions that allow them to be creative and make positive connections with people.
They are likable, trusting, and willing to take risks. For fun, let’s say if you get a really high score in this quiz, then you might be one of them.
Strengths And Weaknesses
The advantages of this temperament include the ability to quickly make friends, an enthusiasm for life and a positive attitude.
However, people with a sanguine temperament can become easily distracted and may struggle when it comes to staying focused or completing tasks. They may also be too trusting of others or too willing to please other people in order to fit in.
Choleric
The Choleric temperament is marked by an active, energetic, and ambitious nature.
Those with this temperament tend to be driven and goal-oriented. They are independent and extremely efficient in completing tasks. They also have a strong sense of leadership and tend to take charge in any situation. This type of personality craves new experiences and often seeks out adventure.
However, they do not handle criticism well and can become frustrated easily when things don’t go their way.
Strengths And Weaknesses
The Choleric persona has many advantages. They are usually successful in their goals and have a strong determination to succeed. They can also be inspiring leaders for those who look up to them. Their natural enthusiasm is infectious and often draws people to them.
However, the Choleric temperament can also be overly aggressive and insensitive, which can lead to conflict with others.
Melancholic
These are the thinkers of the four temperaments.
They are introspective, analytical, and thoughtful. Melancholics tend to be highly organized and motivated by perfectionism.
They also have a deep sense of duty and responsibility that can lead to feelings of loneliness or depression if they aren’t able to fulfill their obligations.
Strengths And Weaknesses
They are creative, detail-oriented, and hardworking.
However, they tend to be pessimistic and may suffer from low self-esteem or anxiety if their high standards aren’t met.
Phlegmatic
Those who display a phlegmatic temperament are often relaxed and easy-going.They tend to take things at their own pace and be comfortable with themselves and the world around them.
Phlegmatics usually enjoy socializing but not in any intense or overly emotional way. They are generally content being part of a group, even if they don’t draw attention to themselves.
Phlegmatics tend to have an agreeable nature and be tolerant of others’ opinions, though they may also show signs of passivity or indifference when confronted with conflict.
In terms of personality traits, those with a phlegmatic temperament may display qualities such as introvertedness, calmness, empathy, loyalty, reliability, intelligence, creativity, cooperation and thoughtfulness. They may also be seen as patient, diplomatic and tolerant.
In the workplace, phlegmatics are often valued for their level-headedness, cool-headedness and dependability. They can take on a supportive role in any given situation and generally do not ruffle feathers. On the other hand, they may sometimes be seen as too passive or unassertive.
Strengths And Weaknesses
Phlegmatics often make excellent mediators, as they are able to remain calm and objective in high-pressure situations. They also tend to be good listeners, which can help foster an atmosphere of understanding and cooperation.
Their reliability and level-headedness can be very useful in both personal and professional relationships.
Disadvantage of people with a phlegmatic temperament is that they may sometimes struggle when it comes to making decisions or taking initiative.
Their tendency towards passivity can also lead them to avoid confrontation or conflict, which may prevent them from standing up for what they believe in. Finally, phlegmatics may find themselves feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions or difficult situations that require quick action.
Applications Of Four Temperaments Theory In Daily Life
The Four Temperaments Theory is an extremely useful tool for understanding our own personality, as well as the personalities of those around us. By recognizing our natural tendencies and strengths, we can better understand why we behave in certain ways and how best to interact with others.
One way that this theory can be applied in daily life is when it comes to personal relationships. Knowing your own temperament and that of the people you interact with will help you better communicate and have more meaningful interactions.
This is especially true if one person has a temperament that is different from yours; having an understanding of their preferences will allow for more effective communication.
The Four Temperaments Theory can also be used as a tool for self-reflection.
Knowing which temperament type you are can help you identify which areas of your life need improvement and growth. You might find that, for example, if you have a Sanguine temperament, then you could benefit from learning how to better manage time and prioritize tasks.
By learning what is your personality type as well as those of your coworkers can help create a harmonious work environment with productive results. It also helps in assigning tasks according to each individual’s strengths and weaknesses so that everyone is working at their best.
Conclusion
The Four Temperaments Theory is a great way to gain insight into one’s personality and character. It can be used to understand why people behave the way they do, as well as how different aspects of their life, such as their career or social relationships may be impacted by their temperament type.
Ultimately, understanding our temperament type can provide invaluable insight into ourselves and those around us, allowing for deeper connections and respect for differences in behavior.
Author: Amaury Abreu
