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Personality Types are For the Birds
By Chris Waugh

Let's de-complicate personalities.

The "Father of Medicine," Hippocrates, first had an interest in personalities, predispositions and preferences. However, he thought that each type of personality was caused by an excess of specific bodily fluids - phlegm (yuck,) black bile, yellow bile, or blood.

Thankfully, his rationale didn't turn out to be true, but the four types of personalities that Hippocrates identified are still used today. They have mutated into many complicated variations, such as Myers-Briggs.

It doesn't matter what label we put on each type, the important thing is to remember that we all see our world differently. We all have different motivations and fears.

Think of the four personality types as birds:

Peacocks are flamboyant, but not necessarily effective at the task of flying. They are dramatic, and entertaining to be around. They enjoy being the center of attention. The would not want to be overlooked.

Hawks, on the other hand, are focused taskmasters. (Don't get between them and their prey.) They are efficient in the pursuit of their goal. They are independent. They have a keen eye and sleek appearance. They intend to succeed.

Owls want the answers. They love specifics. They ask, "who," as well as "what, when, where, and why." They are logically focused and like to sit and study. In fact, they stay up late at night doing so. They have an intense, questioning look. They need to be right.

Geese love companionship, and fly in formation in their flocks. They enjoy eating together, too. Their shape may not be as aerodynamic as others, because they enjoy comfort more than efficiency. They hate to be alone.

You probably know all these birds, plus maybe a few turkeys. Consider your team, your committee, or your family. Do you have a good balance of personality types, or a preponderance of one or two?

Understand the birds flying with you in your airspace, and you'll be able to perform better!

Chris Waugh owns reNvision, Inc., and works with business professionals who want to learn to succeed on the fly. The author of several books, including 'Flying by the Seat of Your Pants,' she blends years of business management experience with her hang glider's perspective on change. Visit www.reNvision.com to find out more.

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Chris Waugh is a professional member of the National Speakers Association Chris Waugh is a member of the International Association of Facilitators reNvision, Inc.
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