Become Very Skeptical
Skepticism is often perceived as negative by optimistic personality types (Yellows), who see it as pessimism and a threat to their enthusiasm.
THE IDEA
Become Very Skeptical
Any person manifesting lots of skepticism is very negative, something that stresses Yellows. They want to see the positive and the light and consider even everyday realists to be prophets of doom. Pessimism and negativity effectively kill Yellows’ enthusiasm and cause them to feel tense.
When to use it
Understanding team dynamics in a workplace where personalities differ.
Managing one's own skepticism to avoid dampening enthusiasm in collaborative projects.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Team Meeting
In a brainstorming session, a skeptical member questions every idea, which demoralizes the more optimistic team members and stifles creativity.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How does your level of skepticism affect your interactions with optimistic people?
When is skepticism beneficial, and when does it become harmful negativity?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Surrounded By Idiots (Thomas Erikson)