The Personality Types: What You Need to Know

Do you ever wonder why you get along well with some people while others constantly rub you the wrong way? One of the biggest factors in how well you relate to people around you is personality—both yours and theirs. Personality isn’t the determining factor in how your relationship goes; a person’s “type” is no excuse to treat him or her badly. However, understanding personalities may help you get along with family, friends, and coworkers better.

Sanguine

For the purposes of this article, we’ll use the Galen (four humors) personality classifications. The first of these is the sanguine personality, associated with blood. Sanguine people are typically social, warm, and generous. They crave attention and acceptance, they’re always up for an adventure, and forgive easily. Weaknesses they need to work on include disorganization, a tendency to interrupt, and a tendency to procrastinate.

Choleric

The choleric is the personality associated with choler, or yellow bile. These are the movers and the shakers of the workforce: highly efficient individuals who are usually right. Cholerics are highly organized people who make exceptional leaders and are usually calm during crises. However, they often need to work on their tact and tendencies to “run over” people with ideas.

Melancholy

The melancholy personality is associated with melan, or black bile. Melancholic people are often thought of as negative and depressed. They can be so inclined, and that’s something they need to watch out for. However, melancholic individuals are also highly empathetic, creative, and analytical.

Phlegmatic

The phlegmatic personality, associated with phlegm, is often the hardest to pin down. These people often act like chameleons, exhibiting the traits they need to fit in at the moment. In general, they’re pleasant, easygoing people who aren’t easily stressed. They can be lazy and overly stubborn, but their strong wills can serve them well in certain situations.