It can be difficult to explain what life is like on the “A” side to someone who just doesn’t understand what the personality type is about. From expert interviews to humorous videos to gift guides, here are a few powerful reads that will speak to every Type A person.
It’s not easy being “Type A.” The personality trait comes with a lot of quirks. While Type A eccentricities might come off as high strung, Type A individuals themselves prefer words like “organized” and “accountable.” With such different perspectives, it can be hard to find common ground. Want to understand the Type A in your life? Here are just a few things that make absolutely no sense to Type A individuals.
Ambitious. High strung. Perfectionist. “Type A” individuals are known for rather uptight behavior, but just like any other personality trait, there’s more to us than what you see on the surface. To know a Type A person is to love them — flaws and all. We’re not impatient, just efficient.
We use it in conversation all the time, generally followed by a knowing chuckle or nod of the head. “Type A” has become a pop psychology buzzword and catch-all descriptor for the more driven, anxiety-prone go-getters among us. We all have some sense of what it suggests, but the actual meaning and legitimacy of Type A Behavior theory are less well-known. While the overarching classification of Type A personalities may be a bit of an oversimplification, the spectrum can still be a helpful psychological tool to help you identify your own strengths and weaknesses. Here are 16 signs that you’re a little (or a lot) Type A.
4. The ‘2 Kinds Of People’ Tumblr Will Nail Your Personality Down In A Second
The world is full of many different kinds of people. But in some ways, it’s easiest to divide us into two specific groups: those who have 26,482 emails in their inbox, and those who bring their inbox counts to zero. It’s really that simple. And thanks to an incredible Tumblr from João Rocha, an art director in Lisbon, Portugal, we can see even more examples of totally different types of folks. Called “2 Kinds of People,” the Tumblr is essentially “Type A” vs. “Type B” personalities broken down into pretty illustrations Rocha draws himself.
5. 10 Satisfying Feelings Every Type A Person Will Understand
“Type As” experience a range of daily emotions that might seem negative to some: Their overwound nature makes it hard for them to relax. They power through tasks with urgency. They put constant pressure on themselves to perform the best. In other words? They’re known for being a little high strung. But the personality type isn’t all doom and gloom. In fact, there are multiple situations where being Type A feels totally gratifying. Here are just a few satisfying feelings Type A folks can’t get enough of.
It’s important to note that character profiles are hardly definitive, according to research. However, dubious science aside, there are plenty of people who still identify with the characteristics typical of “Type A” behavior. And there’s a lot more to them than their “uptight” or “intense” reputations — especially when it comes to their connections with others. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re in a relationship with a Type A personality.
7. 11 Gifts Every Type A Person In Your Life Will Totally Love
While the personality trait is hardly a flaw, it certainly can be a challenge when it comes to gift giving. Type As are notorious for preferring order and control. Chances are, anything they need they’ve already bought (and alphabetized) for themselves. So how do you surprise someone who avoids surprises? Fear not: We’ve rounded up some of the best gifts you can give the Type A person in your life. Whether it’s your best friend, your co-worker or one of your parents, here are 11 items they’re sure to love.
8. Watch A Type A Person Get Annoyed In Under 2 Minutes
“Type A” individuals are known for being a little particular about, well, everything. They get stressed when their desk is a mess. They cringe when you use the wrong form of “your.” They struggle if they’re running late. They’re a personality that thrives on order and efficiency (and hey, that’s not always a bad thing). But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Check out this BuzzFeed video to see just what kind of behaviors will make your Type A friend squirm (personally, we wouldn’t recommend trying this at home).
9. 10 Reasons To Be Glad You’re Type A
Believe it or not, life can be pretty good on the “A” side. Type A individuals have a notorious reputation for being uptight — an adjective that highlights a stressed-out nature and power-walking persona. But while there are certainly some negatives about every character type, it’s better to embrace your positives than ruminate on your flaws. The reality is your Type A personality also has a lot of admirable qualities — and it’s high time you embrace them.
The difference between “Type A” and “Type B” people is basically night and day. Type A people typically have difficulty relaxing, while Type B people are laid back. Type A people generally can’t stand being slowed down, while Type B people prefer a more relaxed pace. But nothing has summed up the contrast between Type A and Type B personality types so accurately as this illustration from Owl Turd Comix.
Are you competitive or laid back? Hyper-organized or a little messy? “Type A” or “Type B?” For those who were wondering which side of the spectrum they fall on, fear not: The geniuses at ASAPScience have outlined the basic characteristics of what it means to be either Type A or Type B.
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