Thoughts From A Tired Soul

Total cognitive-dissonance, feelings are randomfuck vs. rationality, but rationality overrides feelings, unless they are too strong (i.e. panic attack).
I'm trying to be more open now, I'm a very closed person otherwise. lol. I think it helps, at least to better understand myself.
When do/did your panic attacks normally occur (sorry for jumping in the conversation, especially if I'm reading it wrongly)?
I understand the overriding of rationality...in many instances of my own experiences.
Whenever I decide to detox off the pain meds I take, it's amazing how your body and mind can physically and mentally fuck with you...i.e. causing more physical pain in response to them being withdrawn.
Have done it quite a few times now...I have my own techniques that seem to work well...in order to maintain efficacy of such medication, it has to be done on occasion.
Chronic pain also causes depression and a cycle of anxiety....as your brain is getting constant signals that something is wrong (pain), it releases response chemicals...norepinephrine, epinephrine...etc., so it can put your body into a kind of high idle.
No amount of self-rationalization, or even a concrete knowing that there is nothing at all wrong or to be stressed about - goes out the window.
Meditation helps.
Some medication helps...but long term use should be a factor that is weighed before beginning such a thing.
You say you are trying to be more open?
Is it akin to opening a pressure valve?
You totally don't have answer any of my questions.
Have a good day!
 
http://www.adamabsinthe.com/blog/wonderful-infj-article
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Dr. Jung, would you kindly explain the basis of your findings regarding personality? ;)

The following is presumed Ancestral Temperment & Psychology. (I am Phlegmatic, not sure on combo) Has Carl Jung built on these, I'm sure he has indeed :D

(Biblical references are just part of the article delivery, black & white thinking is definately not part of my phlegmatic make up ;))

“THE FOUR HUMAN TEMPERAMENTS”
by Dr. D. W. Ekstrand


There are “reasons” for everything we do as human beings, though it is often difficult for us to understand why we think like we think, feel like we feel, or act like we act in life. Many of the answers for human behavior can be found in people’s temperaments or personalities. The study of the human personality goes all the way back to the famous Greek physician Hippocrates (460-370 BC), the “father of medicine” — he was born during the prophetic ministries of Nehemiah and Malachi, or some 450 years before the birth of Christ. Hippocrates’ work has been researched extensively and is used as a dynamic diagnostic tool in both psychology and psychiatry to this day. A generic explanation of humanTemperaments or Personalities is that all of us have been born with genetically inherited “behavioral tendencies” that are as much a part of our DNA as is the color of our hair; all of us are made up of DNA combinations passed on to us through our parents and ancestors. This fact is important because it helps us to more fully understand our basic behavioral disposition. Even though much of our human personality is inherited, it should also be noted, much of it has also been influenced and shaped by our unique environments. Most scientific research on human behavior suggests that about 50% of the variations in human personality are determined by genetic factors — so our human behavior is shaped equallyby our environment and by our DNA. Thus, all of us as human beings have been hard-wired by our Creator (we are not just products of random chance – Ps 119:73; 139:13-16; Is 44:24), and we have all been impacted by the world around us. Furthermore, according to the scientific analysis all human personalities are commonly divided up into four major categories (with the exception of those with severe mental disorders), and these four types are further broken down into two categories — Extroverts and Introverts:

Extroverted Personalities: The Choleric and Sanguine personality-types are more “out-going,” more sociable, and more comfortable in a crowd, even standing out in a crowd.

Introverted Personalities: The Melancholy and Phlegmatic personality-types are more shy and “reserved” and feel anxious about being in crowd, especially at being singled-out in a crowd.

It should be noted that all human beings have a degree of each of these four personality types within them, though each person will definitely test out higher in one, with another being a close second. No individual only possesses one personality type, and most of us have a very strong secondary temperament. Should you take one of the personality tests available today, you would discover that you possess dominant characteristics in a couple of the temperaments, and each kind of personality has a general characteristic associated with it. It should be noted that there are varying degrees of Extroversion and Introversion — in other words, some Phlegmatics and Melancholies “border” on being out-going, and some Cholerics and Sanguines “border” on being shy. Though the characteristics may not be true for everyone with a particular personality, they are generally true for the vast majority of people. All four personality types have general strengths and weaknesses with which people must contend, and no one personality type is better than any other. All four have both good and bad qualities, and all four are needed to make this world a better place. Whatever your temperament or personality, God is the one who has given you the abilities and sensitivities that you possess, and He has given those things to you for a purpose — that you might faithfully work at developing them and using them in His service. Though our temperaments have been tainted by sin and the fall, God’s Spirit is mightily at work in us transforming us into the image of Christ that we might be more effective workmen in His Kingdom (Jn 17:17-20; 2 Cor 3:18; 5:20; Eph 4:7-16; Phil 2:13). Remember, no two people are alike – we are all unique – and we have all been given a unique call-ing in life. Therefore it is important that we not covet qualities we do not possess; rather, that we focus on discovering God’s will for our lives and enjoy serving Him with the skill-set with which we have been blessed; knowing that God wants to use us to do the work for which He designed us. So identify your skills and strengths and get to work! (Prayerfully reflect upon the following passages –- Mt 6:33; 13:12; 25:14-30; Lk 12:48; Jn 21:20-22; 1 Cor 4:2; 12:4-7, 21-24; Eph 2:10).

Of all the relationships we have in life, marriage is by far the most important. A good relation-ship between a husband and a wife makes for a happy home. A marriage shadowed by bitterness, fighting and other unpleasantness leaves its scars on not only the couple, but also on their children and those around them. Good marriages are not just accidents — they are the result of hard work and understanding. In general, marriages between two people with thesame personality type have the greatest potential for clashing, and anyone married to a sanguine or choleric is in for a challenge; this is mainly due to the tendencies of these two personality types to require excessive attention and control, respectively. Thus pretty much all marriages will have fairly significant challenges. Most oftenopposites do attract — Sanguine individuals tend to marry Melancholy ones, and Cholerics favor Phlegmatics; though such situations are not always the case, they do appear to be the most common. It should be noted that there is no such thing asthe ideal combination;”we are all fallen human beings with foibles and shortcomings.

Following is a brief description of each of the four temperaments or personalities — at the end of each description I have listed the two primary characteristics for that temperament. By identify-ing the two temperaments that best describe who you are as a person, you should be able to identify your “strongest characteristic” — be it predominantly extroversion, introversion, organizational, or relational. Aside from the Extrovert-Introvert continuum that was described above on the pre-vious page, there is the Organizational-Relational continuum — Cholerics and Melancholies are moreorganizational,”whereas the Sanguines and Phlegmatics are morerelational.” With that said, let’s look at a description of the four temperaments, beginning with the “sanguine” —


A. SANGUINE — The Sanguine temperament is fundamentally impulsive and pleasure-seeking. Sanguine’s are frequently referred to as the talker.” They are expressive in personality… desire influence, and being enthusiastic with people… in expressing thoughts with excitement… and being the center of attention. The Sanguine is sociable and charismatic, generally warm-hearted, pleasant, lively, optimistic, creative, compassionate, and outgoing; he is the life of the party, humorous, enthusiastic, and cheerful; he easily attracts others and makes friends; he inspires others to work and join in the fun. He is sincere at heart, always a child, creative and colorful, possesses energy and enthusiasm, loves people, is a great volunteer, thrives on compliments, and doesn’t hold grudges. The Sanguine likes to talk a lot… struggles with completing tasks… is chronically late… and tends to forget his obligations… he bases his decisions primarily on feelings. Sanguine types can be great parents, because they love to have fun; but their homes are often frenzied and disorganized, and the only time you find everyone silent is when they are sleeping! Sanguine people usually possess high amounts of energy, so they often seem restless and spon-taneous. This type of personality loves the life of luxury and impressing others… they are big spenders… they love to travel the world and indulge in rich, comfortable living… and they will do almost anything to satisfy their always present need to be absorbed by something meaningful and exciting. They are impulsive and often find it difficult to control their cravings; as such, people with this temperament are more susceptible to smoking, alcohol, drugs, gambling and taking risk; sadly, they are most susceptible to chemical imbalances, addictions and mood disorders. These people feel bored if they are not absorbed by something intriguing and adventurous. The Sanguine is very poor at tolerating boredom; for the most part he will try to avoid monotony and that which is routine at all costs; routine jobs and boring companions annoy him and irritate him. The Bible characters that seem to best fit the characteristics of a Sanguine are King David and Peter. In addition to the characteristics listed below, the Sanguine is essentially described as being relational and an extrovert

• Is self-composed, seldom shows signs of embarrassment, perhaps forward or bold.
• Is eager to express himself before a group; likes to be heard.
• Prefers group activities; work or play; not easily satisfied with individual projects.
• Is not insistent upon acceptance of his ideas or plans; compliant and yielding.
• Is good in details; prefers activities requiring pep and energy.
• Is impetuous and impulsive; his decisions are often (usually) wrong.
• Is keenly alive to environment, physical and social; likes curiosity.
• Tends to take success for granted; is a follower; lacks initiative.
• Is hearty and cordial, even to strangers; forms acquaintanceship easily.
• Tends to elation of spirit; not given to worry and anxiety; is carefree.
• Seeks wide and broad range of friendships; is not selective; not exclusive in games.
• Is quick and decisive in movements; pronounced or excessive energy output.
• Turns from one activity to another in rapid succession; little perseverance.
• Makes adjustments easily; welcomes changes; makes the best appearance possible.
• Is frank, talkative, sociable, expresses emotions readily; does not stand on ceremony.
• Has frequent fluctuations of mood; tends to frequent alterations of elation and depression.


B. CHOLERIC — The Choleric temperament is fundamentally ambitious and leader-like. The Choleric is the strongest of the extroverted Temperaments, and is sometimes referred to as a “Type A” personality orthe doer(or “the driver”); he is a hard driving individual known for accomplishing goals… he has a lot of aggression, energy, and/or passion, and tries to instill it in others. Dominant in personality Cholerics desire control, and are best at jobs that demand strong control and authority, and require quick decisions and instant attention. The Choleric is the most insensitive of the Temperaments; they care little for the feelings of others; feelings simply don’t play into the equation for them. Most Cholerics are men, and born leaders who exude confidence; they are naturally gifted businessmen, strong willed, independent, self sufficient, they see the whole picture, organize well, insist on production, stimulate activity, thrive on opposition, are unemotional and not easily discouraged. They are decisive, must correct wrongs when they see them, and compulsively need to change things. They systematize everything, are all about independence, and do not do well in a subordinate position. They are goal oriented and have a wonderful focus as they work; they are good at math and engineering, are analytical, logical and pragmatic; and are masters at figuring things out. They are skeptical and do not trust easy; they need to investigate the facts on their own, relying on their own logic and reasoning. If they are absorbed in something, do not even bother trying to get their attention. Negatively, they are bossy, domineering, impatient, can’t relax, quick tempered, easily angered, unsympathetic, enjoy arguments, too impetuous, and can dominate people of other tempera-ments, especially the Phlegmatic types. Many great charismatic military and political figures were Cholerics. They like to be in charge of everything… they are workaholics who thrive on control and want their way… they are highly independent people, and have very little respect for diplomas and other credentials. They set high standards, are diligent and hard-working, are rarely satisfied, and never give up their attempts to succeed. Choleric women are very rare, but strangely are very popular people. Cholerics have the most trouble with anger, intolerance and impatience; they want facts instead of emotions; and should you get your feelings hurt, it’s your problem, not theirs. The Choleric does not have many friends (though he needs them), and he has a tendency to fall into deep sudden depression, and is much prone to mood swings. The Bible characters that seem to best fit the characteristics of a Choleric are the apostle Paul, James, Martha and Titus. In addition to the characteristics listed below, the Choleric is essentially described as being organizational and an extrovert

• Is self-composed; seldom shows embarrassment, is forward or bold.
• Is eager to express himself before a group if he has some purpose in view.
• Is insistent upon the acceptance of his ideas or plans; argumentative and persuasive.
• Is impetuous & impulsive; plunges into situations where forethought would have deterred him.
• Is self-confident and self-reliant; tends to take success for granted.
• Exhibits strong initiative; tends to elation of spirit; seldom gloomy; prefers to lead.
• Is very sensitive and easily hurt; reacts strongly to praise or blame.
• Is not given to worry or anxiety; he is seclusive.
• Is quick and decisive in movement; pronounced or excessive energy output.
• Has marked tendency to persevere; does not abandon something readily regardless of success.
• Is characterized by emotions not freely or spontaneously expressed, except anger.
• Makes best appearance possible; perhaps conceited; may use hypocrisy, deceit, disguise.



C. PHLEGMATIC — The Phlegmatic temperament is fundamentally relaxed and quiet, ranging from warmly attentive to lazily sluggish. Phlegmatics are referred to asthe watcher — they are best in positions of unity and mediation, and solid in positions that desire steadiness. The Phlegmatic is most often a female who tends to be easygoing, content with herself, calm, cool and collected, tolerant of others, well-balanced, sympathetic, kind, unassuming, keeps emotions hidden, is happily reconciled to life, not in a hurry, has many friends, avoids conflict, inoffen-sive, quiet but witty, agreeable and intuitive… though they are very peaceful, patient and adaptable, they tend to be reluctant, indecisive and a worrier. They are wonderful at gathering facts, classifying them, and seeing the relationship between them; basically, they are good at generalizing, seeing the bigger picture, and reading between the lines. They are accepting, affectionate, frequently shy, and often prefer stability to uncertainty and change. Because they are fearful, indecisive and hesitant of things in life, they have a compromising nature. Phleg-matics often worries about everything. They want to know other people’s deepest feelings and strive to build intimate attachments with just about everyone in their lives. They are interested in cooperation and interpersonal harmony, and this is why they preserve their family ties and friendships. They could be described as considerate, charitable, sympathetic, trusting, warm, calm, relaxed, consistent, rational, curious, and observant — this makes them good adminis-trators. Phlegmatic men and women strive for greater self-knowledge, and seek to contribute to society at large. On the negative side, they are often selfish, self-righteous, judge others easily, resist change, stay uninvolved, dampen enthusiasm, and can be passive-aggressive. In large part, the Phlegmatic temperament is deemed to be a neutral temperament. The Bible characters that seem to best fit the characteristics of a Phlegmatic are Joseph, Timothy and Barnabas. In addition to the following characteristics, the Phlegmatic is essentially described as being relational and an introvert

• Is deliberative; slow in making decisions; perhaps overcautious in minor matters.
• Is indifferent to external affairs.
• Is reserved and distant.
• Is slow in movement.
• Has a marked tendency to persevere.
• Exhibits a constancy of mood.



D. MELANCHOLIC — The Melancholic temperament is fundamentally introverted & thoughtful. Melancholies are often referred to as the thinker.” Their analytical personality’s desire caution and restraint, best at attending to details and in analyzing problems too difficult for others. They tend to be deep-thinkers and feelers who often see the negative attributes of life, rather than the good and positive things. They are self-reliant and independent and get wholly involved in what they are doing. Melancholies can be highly creative in activities such as art, literature, music, health-care and ministry, and can become preoccupied with the tragedy and cruelty in the world; they long to make a significant and lasting difference in the world. Melancholies usually have a high degree of perfectionist tendencies, especially in regards to their own lives or performance. They are serious, purposeful, analytical, musical, artistic, talented, creative, self-sacrificing, conscien-tious, idealistic, philosophical, and are genius prone. They are also very “introspective” and hold themselves to a very high standard — one that can rarely be achieved. They tend to be highly organized, schedule oriented, economical, tidy, neat, detail conscious, finish what they start, like charts, graphs, figures and lists, see the problems and are able to identify creative solutions with ease. Sadly, many Melancholies are also victims of deep bouts of depression that come from great dissatisfaction, disappointment, hurtful words or events. Melancholy personalities are people who have a deep love for others, while usually holding themselves in contempt. In short, melancholies take life very seriously (too much so sometimes) and it often leaves them feeling blue, helpless or even hopeless. Because they are deeply caring people, they make great doctors, nurses, social workers, ministers, and teachers. This comes from a deep sense of what others are feeling or experiencing and the inward need to reach out and do something in order to help them. They are extremely loyal in friendships; there is an old saying that goes like this: “If you have a Melancholy for a friend, you have a friend for life.” Most Melancholies have a low self-image, are inclined toward depression, think “self-promotion” is tacky, are continually into “fixing themselves,” are notoriously “guilty” (they have an over-active conscious), and tend to worry much too often about their health. The Bible characters that seem to best fit the characteristics of a Melancholy are Moses and Abraham. In addition to the following characteristics listed below, the Melancholy is essentially described as being organizational and an introvert

• Is self-conscious, easily embarrassed, timid, bashful.
• Avoids talking before a group; when obliged to he finds it difficult.
• Prefers to work and play alone. Good in details; careful.
• Is deliberative; slow in making decisions; perhaps overcautious even in minor matters.
• Is lacking in self-confidence and initiative; compliant and yielding.
• Tends to detachment from environment; reserved and distant except to intimate friends.
• Tends to depression; frequently moody or gloomy; very sensitive; easily hurt.
• Does not form acquaintances readily; prefers narrow range of friends; somewhat exclusionary.
• Worries over possible misfortune; crosses bridges before coming to them.
• Is secretive; seclusive; shut in; not inclined to speak unless spoken to.
• Is slow in movement; deliberative or perhaps indecisive; moods frequent and constant.
• Often represents himself at a disadvantage; modest and unassuming.

Closing note to this section: The biblical characters listed above — Joseph, Timothy, Barnabas, David, Peter, Paul, James, Titus, Martha, Moses, and Abraham — obviously possessed temperaments other than the one attributed to them. These individuals were chosen because of the behavioral tendencies they demonstrated at various times in biblical history.




THE VARIOUS “TEMPERAMENT COMBINATIONS”

Following are the various temperament combinations and what they look like when they are combined together. Once you have identified yourprimary temperamentand the temperament that is a close second for you, you are then ready to see how the two temperaments look when joined together. When looking at the various temperament options below, your primary temperamentwill be listed first — for example, if your primary temperament is a Sanguine and your runner-up temperament is a Choleric, they would be listed as “San/Chol” under the heading “Sanguine,” not as “Chol/San” under the heading “Choleric” (your secondary temperament); your primary temper-ament needs to be listed first. The corresponding results of the combinations listed can be found on the following website if interested: http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Warfield2.html



SANGUINE

San/Chol – This is the strongest “extrovert” of all the blends because both primary types are extroverted. They are people-oriented and enthusiastic but with the resolutions of the Choleric tempering the lack of organization of the Sanguine. He is almost always a sports enthusiast and is ideal in sales. He can talk too much and can be obnoxious if threatened. The forgetfulness of the Sanguine and the caustic nature of the Choleric may make them hurtful without realizing it.

San/Mel – They are highly emotional people whose moods can fluctuate from highs to lows and back again quickly. The Sanguine’s outgoing nature often allows the Melancholy's critical nature to surface too easily. It is very easy for a San/Mel to "get down" on themselves, and to realize their potential, it is best that they work with others.

San/Phleg – The overpowering outgoing nature of the Sanguine is tempered by the gracious Phlegmatic. These are extremely happy and carefree individuals who live to help people. They would not purposely hurt anyone but they must fight a lack of workplace motivation; they would rather visit than work.



CHOLERIC

Chol/San – The second strongest extrovert is an active and purposeful individual; he is almost fearless and has high levels of energy. Whatever his profession, his brain is always active and engaged. His weaknesses combine the quick anger of the Sanguine with the resentment of the Choleric. He gets AND gives ulcers. He may leave people (including spouse and children) shell-shocked and resentful because of his angry outbursts.

Chol/Mel – The Choleric/Melancholy is very industrious and capable. He is both Industrious and detailed. He combines verbal aggressiveness with sharp attention to detail. He is very competitive and forceful. He can be autocratic and opinionated with work habits that keep after details until the job is completely finished. He finds interpersonal relationships difficult due to the hard-to-please nature of the Choleric and the perfectionistic nature of the Melancholy.

Chol/Phleg – This is the most subdued of the outgoing temperaments. He is extremely capable in the long run though he may not impress you that way at first. He is organized and a good planner. He often gets more accomplished than other temperaments because he always thinks in terms of enlisting others to help him. His weaknesses include a tendency to quietly harbor bitterness rather than letting it out. Acknowledging weaknesses is difficult for him and he tends to worry about his performance in life activities.



PHLEGMATIC

Phleg/San – This is the easiest to get along with being congenial, happy, and people-oriented.
They make excellent administrators and other jobs that involve getting along with people. He may
lack motivation and discipline and may fall short of his true capabilities. He may "putter around"
for years without making progress.

Phleg/Chol – This is the most active of the introverts but he'll never be a ball of fire. He can be an excellent counselor because he is an active listener. He is practical and helpful and patient. He may lack motivation and may become stubborn if threatened. He may also have a tendency toward being sedentary and passive. He needs to be around other people as he is externally motivated.

Phleg/Mel – This is gracious and quiet, does the proper thing and is dependable. He wobbles between patience and criticism and may tend toward negativism. They can be afraid of over-extending themselves so may avoid involvement in a group.



MELANCHOLY

Mel/San – They are detailed and organized; the Melancholy is tempered by the outgoing and warm Sanguine. He makes an excellent teacher as his organized side is well versed in the facts and his Sanguine side makes him enjoyable to listen to. If he goes into sales it will be sales that calls for exacting detail and the presentation of many facts. He is an emotional person – from being moved to tears to being critical and hard on others. Both temperaments can be fearful which may make this an insecure person with a poor self image.

Mel/Chol – This is both a perfectionist and a driver which may lead him into law or medicine. They mix decisiveness and determination. Because of the critical nature of the Melancholy they may be very difficult to please. If they become negative about someone or something it will have a tendency to stay with them for a long time. Their combination can lead them to "nit-pick" others and be revengeful to those they have a grudge against.

Mel/Phleg – These are often teachers and scholars. They are not as prone to hostility as other
Melancholy blends and combine analysis with organization. They make excellent accountants and bookkeepers. Unfortunately he can become easily discouraged and may be susceptible to fear and anxiety. They may become uncooperative because of stubborn, rigid tendencies.

http://www.thetransformedsoul.com/a...ellaneous-studies/the-four-human-temperaments

Take the test, which of the four types are you?

http://personality-testing.info/tests/O4TS/


From ^
http://m.selfgrowth.com/?url=http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Warfield2.html&utm_referrer=#2992
Phlegmatic

1. Steady, NF - Idealist - the phlegmatic is best characterized by the words "easy going". He is the calm and steady person who is not easily disturbed. He is the easiest temperament type to get along with. Life for him is happy, unexcited and calm. Underneath the calm exterior, the phlegmatic is the most timid temperament type. He often uses humor to make his points. The phlegmatic is more an observer and does not involve himself in the activities of others.

Phlegmatics make excellent teachers, counselors and administrators. They are very dependable and organized and, while they never volunteer, they make good group leaders.

The weakness of a phlegmatic include lack ofmotivation or even laziness; they appear to lack drive and ambition. A phlegmatic needs to realize that he is not internally motivated and take up activities that force him into action. The phlegmatic is self-protective and may be selfish. He is often very stubborn, though it is hidden beneath his mild-mannered style. He is also the most fearful of temperaments.

After defining each temperament in "black and white" we must look realize that no one is completely one temperament type. Each of us is a blend of usually two and occasionally 3 types. One temperament type is dominant and one is secondary. And don't forget that training, lifestyle, upbringing and other circumstances may have forced an individual to function "off style". The saddest people I have seen are those who have "put on" a style that is not theirs naturally for so long that it has become a habitual way of life

(V. The sixteen "combinations")
. PhlegSan (SI) is the easiest to get along with being congenial, happy, and people-oriented. They make excellent administrators and other jobs that involve getting along with people. He may lack motivationand discipline and may fall short of his true capabilities. He may "putter around" for years without making progress.

K. PhlegChlor (SD) This is the most active of the introverts but he'll never be a ball of fire. He can be an excellent counselor because he is an active listener. He is practical and helpful and patient. He may lack motivation and may become stubborn if threatened. He may also have a tendency toward being sedentary and passive. He needs to be around other people as he is externally motivated.

L. PhlegMel (SC) is gracious and quiet, does the proper thing and is dependable. He wobbles between patience and criticism and may tend toward negativism. They can be afraid of overextending themselves so may avoid involvement in a group.

Other factors that shape personality

Just as no one is only one temperament or an exact blend of two types, there are a multitude of other factors that affect a person's behavior . The percentage of blend may be any combination of percentages making them more one type than another.

A choleric raised in the northeast US may exhibit different behavior than one raised in the Deep South due to cultural differences.

Childhood experiences and parenting will cause differences. A Phlegmatic father may behave differently in raising a child than a melancholy one thereby causing the child to value different behaviors.

A person's level of education and training may affect behavior as will a person's level of physical health. A healthy phlegchol may seem more outgoing and aggressive than a choleric with health problems.

In certain individuals there may be parts of three temperament types blended together. While rare, it does happen and makes it more difficult for the person to get a clear picture of their type.

VII. How to use temperament to your advantage

A. Know yourself - knowing your temperament blend can be an "eye-opening" experience. It may help explain why you do certain things and why you don't get along with certain others. Use your knowledge of temperament to guide you in choosing vocations, affiliations, and friendships.

B. Get along with others - learning how to spot the temperament of others is invaluable. It take practice but once you can spot a choleric you know not to try and be "chatty" with them. If you spot a phlegmatic you may understand why they seem quiet and reserved.

C. Work life - This is a key area of understanding temperament. There are so many people in life who are in jobs that do not match their temperament. A sangphleg may not make a good surgeon. A cholmel probably wouldn't be happy teaching kindergartners. Tests of temperament often include suggestions concerning career choices.

D. Relationships - another key area. Cholerics get impatient with sanguines. Melancholies think that phlegmatics "just don't care" about details. And in marriage we more often than not see opposite temperaments together. This can help each individual grow and develop or it can cause anger, resentment and separation. Understanding your temperament and your child's can affect parenting style. A melancholy child needs structure, organization and reassurance. A choleric child needs a big backyard and a large dog to take care of. A phlegmatic mother needs to be firm with a sanguine child.

VIII. FAQs

A. Can you change your personality? You cannot change your basic temperament styles but you can influence your behaviors and thereby your personality. The biggest mistake I've seen is someone who has "put on" behaviors that were not theirs' naturally until it has become habitual. It is almost always obvious and often painful. An example is a phlegmatic who felt is necessary to put on an outgoing sanguine style for so many years that it has become a habit; however it is clear that this is not their natural way of being.

B. Can you change someone else's personality? If you can't change you own, it is clear that you can't change someone else's but that won't stop most of us from trying. This is an special problem in marriage and child raising if the spouse or parent thinks the other person can be "improved" on. In Dicken's David Copperfield, Mr. Murdstone and his sister fatally try to impress their choleric nature on sanguine Mrs. Copperfield. Husbands and wives who think they will change their spouse may affect some behavior changes and think they have "changed" them. Changes are only fully implemented when they come from within the person and then they will still be in line with their basic temperament style.

C. Why do people so often marry opposite temperament? The first person to find out the underlying answer to this one will retire wealthy. Seriously, what attracts us to another person? Often it is the strengths we see in them that we do not have temperamentally. A choleric woman may appreciate the easygoing nature of the phlegmatic. A disorganized Sanguine appreciates the orderly manner of a melancholy. Unfortunately, over time, we realize that our natural strengths are usually their natural weaknesses which can cause friction or even a feeling of betrayal; that is, "if he really loved me, he wouldn't be so disorganized, or angry, or rigid".

D. Why do different temperament types irritate us? Again, it's usually a matter of strengths and weaknesses. A straightforward choleric is irritated by a highly verbal sanguine. A highly organized melancholy finds a phlegmatic's laid back nature to go "against their grain". The phlegmatic is the most likely to ignore these irritations. The choleric is the most likely to bring them out in the open.

E. Is one temperament "better" than another? Each of us is who we are - we were made that way based on inherited temperament characteristics. Each temperament type at some time thinks another type is "better" but that feeling is usually related to something they admire in that person that they cannot do easily. So a quiet phlegmatic envies the sanguines easy outgoing manner and the disorganized sanguine may envy the melancholy's natural organization. Each type is better at some things and worse at others. The trick is to match the personality to the situation - which very rarely happens in normal life.

F. How does knowing my temperament help me? "Why do I do the things I do?" is a question many of us have asked ourselves at one time or another. Temperament study gives us insight into some of those "whys". A choleric with a quick temper, the talkative sanguine, or the organized melancholy now have an underlying reason for behavior. The trick is not to let temperament become an excuse for negative behavior.
 
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  • THAWING THE FROZEN SOUL

    I am a river of love. Unfortunately, you can’t dip into me, because I’m currently frozen over.
    Jarod Kintz, Love quotes for the ages. And the ageless sages.

    Sometimes the spark of life in a person wanes, shrinking to a weak and sputtering flame. The fire may be dampened by emotional reaction to trauma or tragedy. Or, it may be so gradual that the dimming of the flame is scarcely noticed since functioning in daily life goes on. This can happen, for example, when one is not living their truth.

    Fear is a wet blanket that smothers the fiery passion God deposited in your heart when he formed you. Fear freezes us into inaction. Frozen ideas, frozen souls, frozen bodies can’t move, can’t dream, can’t risk, can’t love, and can’t live. Fear chains us. – Stasi Eldredge, Becoming Myself

  • When the flame within has dwindled, and the inner landscape has frozen white in the ice of stuck emotions, embrace the Greater Flame and you will gently thaw your frozen soul.

    My soul was a prisoner of emotional ice for many years before I learned how to thaw it in the warmth of the greater flame.

    Most humans, since they’ve not learned anything different, start suppressing emotions (triggers and reactions) at an early age. By the time of early adulthood, they are in a ‘frozen soul state’. Emotions buried alive never die, and when suppressed these unattended energies in motion can control outlook and actions, and run a person’s life.

    When an individual is drawn out by external stimuli and not aware of their triggers and reactions, or is depleted by lower emotions, the inner landscape withers. Then one is subject to sadness, anger, depression and other automated patterns. When a human is nurtured by their awareness and balance and other eternal qualities, emotions will adjust to their inner landscape.

    http://www.wholehuman.emanatepresence.com/realizations-blog/thawing-the-frozen-soul
 
Thoughts about anxiety...
  1. Anxiety flowed through the core of his bones like lava —Calder Willingham
  2. (It is in those marriages and love affairs which are neither good or bad … that) anxiety flows like a muddy river —Norman Mailer
  3. Anxiety … is somewhat like a blow on the head —Delmore Schwartz
  4. Anxiety moved like a current through his belly —Bernard Malamud
  5. Anxiety receives them like a grand hotel —W. H. Auden
  6. Anxious as a law associate during his sixth year with a major law firm —Elyse Sommer
  7. Anxious as an aspiring Miss Universe contestant sequestered in a soundproof booth and brought out moments later to tell what she loves most about America —Susan Barron, New York Times/Hers
  8. Anxious as a mid-level manager in a corporate takeover —Mike Sommer
  9. Anxious as an investor watching his stock go down —Anon
  10. Anxious as a taxpayer with an audit notice from the IRA —Anon
  11. As worried as she would have been over a lover she had cared for passionately —Sumner Locke Elliott
  12. A case of the dreads so thick they seemed to whistle out the heating ducts and swarm the room like a dark mistral —Richard Ford
  13. Desperation rising from him like a musk —Paule Marshall
  14. A feeling of foreboding … like a wind stirring the tapestry, an ominous chill —Evelyn Waugh
  15. A feeling of vague anxiety … snuffling about me like cold-nosed rodents, like reading of a favorite baseball player whose star has descended to the point where he parks cars at a restaurant or sits in a room above a delicatessen in Indianapolis, drinking vodka and waiting for his pension —W. P. Kinsella
  16. Felt as if a serpent had begun to coil round his limbs —George Eliot
  17. Felt as if her nerves were being stretched more tightly, like strings on violin pegs —Leo Tolstoy
  18. Felt chilled as by the breath of death’s head —Victor Hugo
  19. Felt like a switchboard with all my nerves on Emergency Alert —Dorothy B. Francis
  20. Frantic as a mouse in a trap —Anon
  21. Had a chill and heavy feeling in his stomach like a lump of lead —Vicki Baum
  22. Her mild, constant worries had engraved no lines in her bisque china face but had gradually cracked it like a very old plate —Lael Tucker Wertenbaker
  23. His heart seemed to slide like the hook on a released pulley —Frank Swinnerton
  24. I’m’bout as worried as a pregnant fox in a forest fire —Peter Benchley
  25. Over it [a face that had looked hopeful] now lay like a foreign substance a film of anxiety —Thomas Hardy
  26. Second-hand cares, like second-hand clothes, come easily off and on —Charles Dickens
  27. Stress is like an iceberg. We can see one-eighth of it above, but what about what’s below —Patrice O’Connor
  28. Suspended in his own anxiety as if in a cloudy solution of some acid —Lawrence Durrell
  29. There is the same pain and panic (when your computer locks up) as when you have an attack of appendicitis —Brendan Gill quoted New York Times, August 2, 1986 in article by William E. Geist about a man (computer tutor Bruce Stark,) who helps people with their computer problems.
    This is typical of similes that are borrowed and modified to fit a personal sphere of interest.
  30. Unease … it slipped out without his being able to control it, like sweat from his pores —Clive Barker
  31. Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere —Anon
 
Character Strengths Poem
January 11, 2018 by VIA Contributor · Leave a Comment

WISDOM

Creativity is shaping your thoughts into something that you have never seen or heard before.
It’s letting your imagination go and start to soar.

Curiosity is having an open mind and wanting to find something new every day.
Asking questions to learn more than you do
And in this way bring the world closer to you.

Judgment is thinking things through
Never rushing in what you set out to do.
Changing your mind when new facts come your way
And truly listening to what others have to say.

Love of Learning is mastering skills and being in the know.
Learning something new wherever you go.
Some from what you read and others from the people you meet.
Always learning – what a treat!

Perspective is using your intelligence and common sense in deciding what to do.
It’s not being foolish without thinking things through.
Learning not to always ask others for advice.
Believing that our own good judgment can suffice.

COURAGE

Bravery is trying new things and taking risks
Even when you feel afraid and may start to shake.
It’s moving forward
Without thinking much about making a mistake.

Perseverance is working hard to complete what we start
And not getting so upset that we fall apart.
It’s taking things step-by-step, that’s for sure.
In this way, we can always achieve more.

Honesty is being true to ourselves.
Taking responsibility for our actions and not looking to blame,
Not trying to give anyone a bad name.
Nor looking at fibbing and telling tales as just a fun game.

Zest is feeling excited about life as much as you can.
Seeing the sunny side rather than looking for all that is wrong.
Viewing life as a happy song.
While there may be some dark clouds along the way,
Always believing that tomorrow is a new day.

HUMANITY

Love is being close to people and wanting to show that you care.
And missing them when they are not there.
Love is not focusing just on you.
Rather than one, you now think about two.

Kindness is going out of our way.
Saying good morning and have a good day.
It’s holding a door for a person you don’t know.
Cheering someone up when they feel low.

Social intelligence is being aware of what others may think and feel.
And counting all of this as very real.
It’s making decisions taking in another’s view.
Not just counting the view of you.

JUSTICE

Teamwork is being part of a group and doing your share.
Treating members equally because that’s what’s fair.
You are not the one who has to stand out.
This is true beyond a doubt.

Fairness is doing what’s right for everyone and not just you.
Or for that matter just a select few.
It trying to make what’s wrong right and not just let wrong be
This is true for you as well as for me.

Leadership is encouraging others to get things done.
Taking charge without taking over, I would say.
Leading them toward a goal.
Helping them find their way.

TEMPERANCE

Forgiveness is giving others a second chance
And not holding a grudge.
It is having an open mind and not one that won’t budge.
Forgiveness can sometimes bring people closer than before.
With so many good times in store.

Humility is not seeing yourself as special or better than anyone else you know.
It is being who you are
And not putting on a show.
It is not bragging or boasting to make yourself feel good.
It’s about being you, just as you should.

Prudence is being careful about what you do and say
So when all is done you do not feel sorry in any way.
It’s not saying things meant to hurt or tease people you know.
It is being thoughtful wherever you go.

Self-regulation is controlling your actions and learning to wait your turn as much as you can.
It’s learning to take a breath and count to ten.
It’s not pushing ahead of the line and blurting out what we have to say.
It is practicing self-control each and every day.

TRANSCENDENCE

Appreciation of beauty and excellence is seeing the world with wonder and awe.
The flowers, trees, rivers, oceans, watching a bird soar.
The silvery moon, sparkling stars, the snow-capped mountains and much, much more.

Gratitude is being thankful for what we have and who we are.
Taking time to express thanks for everything and everyone you are grateful for, near and far.
It is reminding ourselves of all that we have when we think we have none.
That behind every cloud, you will find a sun.

Hope is looking to a future that is bright
Where things are not dark as the black night.
Looking to a guiding star,
Wherever we find ourselves, wherever we are.
Knowing that with hope we can travel so far.

Humor is seeing the funny side of life where others may see none.
It knowing how to laugh and have fun.
But, is not making fun of, that’s for sure.
Humor helps people not to feel less, but rather feel more.

Spirituality is looking for meaning in life, things that make everything seem worthwhile. Reading a good book, gazing up at the stars, chatting with a friend.
Helping people out, writing a story, taking a hike in the woods, the possibilities never end.

Poem created by June Rousso

Link to more, including the strengths test. Search under the Index.
https://www.viacharacter.org/blog/character-strengths-poem/

 
As an INFJ you will always have a strong need for answers. You will continually seek meaning in your life experiences. You have a difficult time at it just existing, the routine complacency instills a sense of restlessness your soul aspires to settle.

You have a need to know that you are living your life purposefully and that you are making a difference in the world. More importantly, you need to know that you are directly impacting an individual's life in a positive way, and indirectly as a result of this singular impact, causing a positive step in the betterment of the world at large.

Through affecting positive growth in the individual you do indeed change the growth of the people, resulting in the World's preservation... one soul at a time.
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A profound insight in the 33rd chapter...
 
Beu
Wings~~C.DavidHay

Oh, to catch the winds of flight
And soar where eagles go,
To leave the woes of troubled souls
Behind me far below.
I'd listen to the song of birds
And sail in endless flight,
Then chase the sun through cloudy paths
And play with stars at night.
The boundless heavens for my home,
The breeze to lift me high
To raise above my mortal bonds
And never have to die.
Knowing I had found the way
To trails where angels trod,
And when my wings could fly no more,
I'd take the hand of God!

Beautiful. Thank You.
 
Thoughts today bring back a once thought, then put aside to be revisited later, goal.

It's later Now.

As 2018 comes into it's closing hours, a new beginning is on the horizon. New shoots from an old seed planted long ago...the climate had to be "just so" to form the sprouted idea.

One goal on my list was to remove Me. To remove me as an indvidual from the center of my own stage of consciousness. Without losing what I knew as Who I am; not sacrificing my individuality or self-identity, while gaining clarity of deeper perspective of how I fit..Who am I, what will I do? The endeavor to show myself how I fit as a part of the greater whole. To understand my parts, integrating them, and then sharing them in the World.

I've dug deep...following a path into my darkness with a dull light. Not worrying about my not being able to see the next step, but trusting myself that I was heading in the right direction. Not blindly, but with intent, not taking the next step until I understood and accepted its purpose.

And, by asking the correct question, the next step unfolded before me. There were times while trekking through my unconscious that my dull light shown brighter, iluminating my path for just a moment, showing me my horizon and giving me courage to press on.

In reminding myself that I am but a small piece of this greater whole, my baggage has become much lighter, assisting me in the awareness that I can and do consciously function as a Soul. What a revelation to know I am an Old One. That in my contract, I agreed to be a voice of enlightenment to others...a hand along their way. Encouraging them to find their answers for themselves. I'm hopeful that they will play it forward...yes, play, as we are all actors on the stage, required to step forth, speak our truth, and step off the stage, to take our moment in the audience and be a witness to others doing the same.

It is inevitable, and all about timing.

I accept that my time is Now...no plan ahead, no looking behind.

The major "theme" coming into play globally now is Universal Relationships...group awareness, group relations, and group integrity.

As the Personality, which is individual, seperative, and Self-centered recedes into the background and our Soul comes to light, a non-seprative, group-consciousness and inclusive awareness will begin to unfold.

The inter-play of "energies", the nature of what lies behind The Great Illusion...the appearances of things as they are...the kingdoms in nature, the planet's destiny and humanity as a whole, will begin to trust in Subjective Reality...emotions... as opposed to the Outer Illusion...materialism.. and demonstrate unity and the underlying synthesis which is in fact the livingness which is at play in the subconscious.
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