Success can be fueled by type A traits, but they can also cause stress.
I’m sure you’ve heard someone referred to as having a “Type A” personality. It’s a term frequently applied to extremely competitive workaholics who believe that perfection is the only acceptable result.
The motivation that propels one to success in the workplace can be fueled by these intense personality traits. They are, of course, also traits that can cause tension and strain while offending people.
So, is being a Type A personality a good or negative thing? The answer to that issue appears to be less clear-cut than a Type A would prefer.
A Type A personality: what is it?
We classify people according to common traits by designating them as a particular “type” of person. In general, those who are labeled as “Type A” are thought of being extremely driven individuals who lack patience.
(The alphabet system also produces Type B and Type C individuals, who have a different outlook on life than Type As.)
Characteristics of a Type A personality
Typical characteristics of a Type A personality include:
competitive. It is believed that a Type A person must win. “These are the individuals who envision themselves holding that gold medal on the podium,” Dr. Tworek explains. “I can’t settle for second place.”
centered on goals. Ambition is a motivating factor. Additionally, the greater the obstacle, the better. She continues, “That’s what gives a Type A energy.”
quick-paced. According to Dr. Tworek, “type A personalities usually perform exceptionally well under pressure and deadline pressure.” “They always flourish when they have a strong sense of urgency to complete tasks.”
well-prepared. When you have “workaholic” tendencies, productivity must be increased, and this can be achieved by setting things up so processes function smoothly and effectively.
impatient. “If you’re constantly in that go-go-go mindset, it can be really frustrating that not everyone brings the same passion to a project as a Type A,” Dr. Tworek says. It might even incite rage.
in command. To get things done the way they desire, type A personalities frequently take charge and act aggressively.
autonomous. When you think of yourself as the greatest resource, why rely on others?
A lot of these Type A traits can operate as motivators to help someone reach their objectives. After all, success requires work and a will to go beyond imagined limits.
According to Dr. Tworek, many successful people attribute their success to having a Type A mentality. “And there might be something to that when you look at the Type A traits.”
Naturally, a person who leans toward being Type A doesn’t have to exhibit all of those traits or score extremely high on them. Dr. Tworek explains, “A lot of these traits occur on a spectrum.” “It may rely on the individual, the circumstance, and additional elements.”
Problems for People with Type A Personalities
There are costs associated with having a win-at-all-costs mentality. According to Dr. Tworek, a Type A person’s fast-paced drive for ambition can turn into a personal pressure cooker that causes tension and anxiety.
Relationships may suffer and others may become uncomfortable as a result of your confrontational outlook on life.
“Friends or coworkers may tell someone who is Type A that they’re difficult to work with because they’re not the most adaptable when it comes to other ideas,” she explains.
It should be mentioned that two cardiologists’ observations served as the basis for the theory of Type A personalities. According to the specialists, having a Type A personality was associated with a higher risk of heart disease.
That idea was supported by early research, but subsequent investigations found that personality was not a reliable indicator of heart problems.
Is Type A personality a real medical diagnosis?
Your medical file is not likely to contain a Type A diagnosis. After all, personality type isn’t as clearly defined and categorized as blood type.
According to Dr. Tworek, “‘Type A’ is more of a generalized term used by people to explain traits we see in certain situations.” “It can help us better understand where someone is coming from and provide insight into what energizes or motivates them.”
Furthermore, there is no “official test” to identify if you are a Type A personality, despite the abundance of online personality tests available.
Advice for people with Type A characteristics
Therefore, how can you maximize your Type A traits without running the risk of negative consequences? If you think there might be space for improvement in the interactions you have on a regular basis, Dr. Tworek provides these recommendations.
Examine yourself in the mirror. It could be time for a candid self-evaluation if you frequently receive criticism that you’re inflexible and challenging to collaborate with. Dr. Tworek advises, “Look inward to see how what you’re doing may be affecting those around you.”
Be receptive to diverse viewpoints. There are multiple approaches to achieving a goal. In the long run, listening to other people’s perspectives might even make you more successful. (Some of your relationships may also benefit from it.)
Have a give-and-take attitude. Be prepared to compromise with others. Recognize that not everyone shares your viewpoint, and that’s okay. Dr. Tworek says, “There are times when we connect with people and find common ground in our differences.”
Be kind to yourself. Your heart, muscles, skin, gut, immune system, and other parts of your body can all be negatively impacted by stress. In the event that you feel overburdened, be prepared to step back.
However, the bottom line? Continue doing what you’re doing if your Type A mindset seems to be working for you. Dr. Tworek says, “Don’t worry too much about a label.” “Embrace these qualities if they are beneficial to you and your life.”
