Have you ever had someone say to you “What do you mean by that?” If so, it was probably a “C” or Cautious/Contemplative personality type. This personality type is a “four levels deep” thinker. Therefore they naturally believe that nothing is as it initially seems. Whenever someone tells them something, their first thought is “What did they mean by that?” For example: if you say to them “That’s a nice shirt you are wearing.” They begin the process of trying to figure out what you REALLY meant. It would play out something like this in their mind:
“What did he/she mean by that? Do they want something from me? Are they making fun of me? Did they not like my shirt yesterday?”
To you, it may simply means “nice shirt”, but to a “C” personality type it is hard for them to believe that you really meant exactly what you said!
So why is it important to understand this about the “C” personality type? When we don’t understand our differences based on our personality type, we sometimes assume that their actions are against us. Let’s say that you are married to a “C” personality type and you give them information. They will probably verify what you said with a third party or source. This could easily upset you if you don’t understand the “why” behind their actions. You may respond to the “C” with something like “Do you think I am stupid? Why do you need to ask someone else if what I said is correct”? The reality is that it had nothing to do with you. It was FOR themselves. It is the way they are wired. You should not be offended by this, but rather appreciate that they think enough of the information to take the time to validate it. Hopefully this will give you a better understanding of our detailed “C” personality types. They are great at many things and everyone needs a “C” personality type in their life! Remember to let your personality shine!
Angel Tucker is an Expert Personality Profiler and best-selling Author of the book titled: Stop Squatting With Your Spurs On! The power to read people, get what you want, and communicate without pain! She is an international motivational speaker, mother of 4 and Air Force wife!