One of the more enjoyable aspects of my profession is my study and application of personality types. And, boy, there sure are a lot of them! I think it is important to understand your own personality type, in addition to knowing that of people who impact your life. So, let’s look at the personality type of conscientious.

A working definition of this trait would include people who are careful, thoughtful, and meticulous. These are positive qualities to be sure. Such people are motivated. They are driven and dependable. They complete tasks. They are rule followers. They usually are very healthy because of their cautious nature they take better care of themselves. They are among the highest functioning individuals in society. They excel because they plan to succeed.

Conscientious personality types also have somewhat of a downside as well. In an effort to do well conscientious people can get bogged down in details. Perfectionism can permeate this personality type. In an effort to avoid mistakes, be perfect, this type of person can spend too much time obsessing over the little things. Also, conscientious people may be the most productive, but they rarely are visionaries. Visionaries don’t always follow the “rules” as they stretch parameters in order to find new and innovative perspectives. Visionaries are creative. Conscientious people tend not to be.

It is clear that in the work place conscientiousness is a valued personality trait. But what about in the romance arena? Conscientious partners tend to be thoughtful and, thus, usually are loyal and loving. They usually remember date nights, birthdays, and anniversaries. A sometime criticism, especially from a “visionary,” is that his or her partner is boring because they are so cautious and play it safe. 

Respected Reader, what do you draw from this. Are you a conscientious type? Are other impactful people in your life conscientious? Or, are you more of a visionary type? Perhaps you would like to claim that definition if you are not the conscientious type!

Ideally, in both the work place and personal life, there is a blend of both types. Each is needed in order for maximal productivity. And your contributive personality is?

Dr. Stathas can be reached at 706-473-1780. Email: jstathas13@gmail.com. Website: drstathas.googlepages.com. Blog: drstathas.com. Book: “A Successful Life – Guaranteed!” at Amazon.