by Crystal Achey

Created on: June 02, 2008   Last Updated: January 30, 2011

The New Golden Rule

Improve Persuasiveness By Learning To Recognize The Four Main Personality Types...

Most of us are familiar with the proverbial Golden Rule about treating others as we would like to be treated. So why is it, when sometimes we treat others the way we, ourselves would like to be treated, we don't get the response we expect? The answer is simple, everyone has their own, unique nature. In contrast to the idea of treating others as you, yourself would like to be treated, it may be better to think of treating others as they themselves would like to be treated.

One's nature is tied to their personality type. Ever notice how some people just have to be socializing with others? When they go to parties, they will strike up conversation with anyone around them. They'll look forward to long bus trips because they know they'll be buddies with everyone aboard by the end of the trip. That's because they are, what can be referred to as, "socializers" and in psychology, they are referred to as having a "Sanguine" personality type or style.

There are four personality types defined in Psychology: Sanguine, Phlegmatic, Melancholy and Choleric.

Phlegmatics are easy going and have a tendency to relate well to others. They generally do not like to offend or cause any conflict. However, because of their laissez faire attitude, they also have a tendency to underachieve and have a tendency to get things done in a slow manner. They also tend to be less direct and do not crave the limelight as much as some of the other personality types. They prefer to watch from the sidelines.

Melancholy people have a tendency to feel emotions very deeply and are generally sensitive, hence the category of "Melancholy". They are usually very intellectual and perform well in school. They also have a tendency to want everything in order, and like to be on time. They love details. Like the Phlegmatics, they too have a tendency to be less direct in communicating their own needs to others. They generally move at a slower, more thoughtful pace than some of the other personalities.

Cholerics are very direct, independent and self sufficient. They like to express themselves concisely and are often considered brassy, but they will get things done and are not afraid to delegate. They have a tendency to dominate and can often be found in leadership positions. They generally don't spend much time worrying about what anyone thinks and don't have time to listen to all the details. They do not like

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