Author: Thomas Erikson
Short Summary |
Surrounded By Idiots (2014) starts with an introduction to the four main personality types: Red, Yellow, Green, and Blue. Each of these personality types has its strengths and weaknesses, and each responds differently to different types of communication. The author then provides tips on how to communicate with each type to get your message across more effectively which we’ll learn in Surrounded By Idiots Summary. |
Detailed Summary
Some people are great at communicating. They’re clear, concise, and always seem to know the right thing to say. But even the best communicators can have trouble when they’re talking to someone who doesn’t communicate in the same way. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that everyone communicates differently. What works for one person might not work for another. It can be difficult to find a common ground with someone when you have nothing in common. Maybe you’re an introvert and the other person is super outgoing, or maybe you like to talk about your feelings and the other person would rather not.
The key is to try to understand how the other person likes to communicate, and then adjust your style accordingly. It won’t always be easy, but with a little patience and effort, you should be able to find a way to communicate effectively with just about anyone. Fortunately, there are some ways that we’ll talk about in this Surrounded By Idiots Summary.
Surrounded By Idiots Summary Key Points
It is possible to have a mix of two or more personality types
The four types of personalities are:
- Red (choleric)
- Yellow (sanguine)
- Green (phlegmatic)
- Blue (melancholic)
It is interesting to think about how our personality type might be a combination of different colors, as I’ve learned while writing Surrounded By Idiots Summary. For example, I am a very analytical person and I like to plan things out, which suggests that I have Blue traits. However, I am also quite calm and collected, which implies that I have Green traits. Similarly, people who are extroverted and ambitious tend to have Red and Yellow traits. So what does this mean for us? It means that we all have a mix of different personality types within us. We may not be 100% one type or another, but rather a combination of several types.
It’s not uncommon to find a mix of two or more personality types in one person. For example, a choleric-sanguine personality type might be someone impulsive and easily bored, but also optimistic and outgoing. A phlegmatic-melancholic personality type might be someone introverted and thoughtful, but also prone to anxiety and depression. And a green-blue personality type might be someone independent and analytical, but also sensitive. Of course, these are just generalizations, and there are many other possible combinations of personality types. But understanding your dominant personality type (or types) can help you better understand yourself – and others – which can lead to more harmonious relationships both personal and professional.
If you take the time to learn about personality types, you can avoid misunderstandings
If you’re ever feeling frustrated with how someone is communicating with you, it can be helpful to try and understand their personality type. It may give you some insight into why they act the way they do and help you find a better way to communicate with them. You may even find that you have more in common with people than you originally thought. If you know that someone is choleric, you can be more understanding when they come across as forceful. You can also learn how to better communicate with them – for example, by being direct and to the point. If you’re ever feeling upset with a choleric friend or family member, try to remember that they didn’t mean to hurt your feelings – they were just trying to take charge and get things done. Personality type aside, it’s always important to remember that everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to be flexible in your approach. Ultimately, learning about personality types can help you build better relationships – with friends, family, co-workers, and more.
Similarly, if you have a sanguine friend, you can be more patient when they are being chatty or unfocused. Overall, learning about personality types can help improve your relationships by giving you a better understanding of how others see the world.
When giving feedback, you need to be aware of the other person’s personality
When giving feedback, always be respectful and considerate of the other person’s feelings. try to avoid coming across as confrontational or judgmental, and instead, focus on constructively communicating your point. It’s also important to be aware of your tone and body language – if you come across as angry or condescending, the other person is likely to react negatively, even if what you’re saying is valid.
Try to avoid coming across as confrontational or judgmental, and instead focus on offering constructive criticism that can help the individual improve. If you’re not sure how to word something, it’s often helpful to ask a friend or colleague for their input before broaching the subject with the person in question.
The first step in adjusting feedback is to ensure that the person you are giving feedback to is receptive. If they are not receptive, then your feedback will likely fall on deaf ears. Second, you must tailor your feedback specifically to the individual. One size does not fit all when it comes to feedback- what works for one person may not work for another. Finally, be aware of your delivery when giving feedback. Make sure you are clear, concise, and respectful to get your message across effectively. Take the time to think about how the person receiving the feedback will interpret your words, and adjust accordingly.
Surrounded By Idiots Quotes
“But the most important lesson that you can walk away with is that the idiots who surround you are, in fact, not idiots at all. Instead, they are individuals worthy of respect, understanding, and being valued.” –Thomas Erikson
“It takes a strong mind to move things forward, someone who understands that risks that are part of everyday life and that everything boils down to hard work from morning to night—” -Thomas Erikson
Surrounded By Idiots Review
It is packed with information and useful tips as we explained some of them in Surrounded by idiots summary, and is an easy read that will leave you feeling like you have a better understanding of not only others but also yourself. If you find yourself struggling to communicate or get along with certain people, this book is definitely for you.
To whom I would recommend Surrounded by Idiots summary?
- Anyone who wants to improve their communication skills.
- Any who feels like they are constantly surrounded by people who don’t understand them.
- Anyone who struggles with anxiety or feels like they don’t belong.
