Are you an overachiever and perfectionist or more laid-back and relaxed? Learn about the Type A and Type B personalities and which one you should date!
A widely supported theory holds that there are two distinct patterns of behavior that all people fall into, Type A personality and Type B personality.
Type A people aren’t necessarily smarter than others, but they’re very intense, fast-moving, and sometimes loud. Even if they’re not loud in voice, their actions tend to “speak” loudly.
When we consider our childhood friends from Winnie-the-Pooh, a Type A person is definitely more of a Rabbit than a Winnie. On the other hand, Winnie is more of a Type B.
Type B individuals are normally quite relaxed, peaceful, and slow-moving, letting things happen instead of making them happen as their Type A counterparts do. [Read: Things to know before dating a type of personality]
Some theorists have recently even entertained the idea that there are two more personality styles, Type C *thoughtful, critical, detail-oriented, and cautious introverts* and Type D *change-resistant followers who avoid taking responsibility and don’t show a lot of emotion*.
There are more than a few misconceptions about these two types of personalities. Most of those beliefs paint people in a bad light, especially when the good points of both types are hardly ever discussed.
Origin of the Type A and Type B personality concepts
The concept of the Type A and Type B personality types originated in the 1970s by cardiologists Dr. Meyer Friedman and Dr. Ray Rosenman. [Read: 50 relationship questions to test your compatibility]
The doctors used the term “behavior pattern A” to describe a particular pattern of emotions and actions that people displayed. This was later termed the Type A personality.
They conducted an 8-and-a-half-year-long study of healthy men between the ages of 35 and 59.
The participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire that asked questions like, “Do you feel guilty if you use spare time to relax?” and “Do you generally move, walk, and eat rapidly?” The participants were followed even after the study ended, too. [Read: 15 questions to reveal a controlling personality instantly]
Their research found a link between Type A personality and coronary heart disease. However, it doesn’t seem to be a risk factor in mortality.
Traits that make you typically Type A personality
So while the “Type A” classification may be overreaching or come off as too harsh for some, it can still be a tool to help you identify your own strengths and weaknesses.
Below is a list of signs that can help you identify if you’re a Type A. [Read: 30 alpha male characteristics that make someone a real alpha]
1. Always busy
You absolutely shudder at the thought of “passing time.” What’s with doing nothing, anyway, when you can work up to your to-do list and accomplish short and long-term goals? And, of course, change the world in the process.
For you, wasting time is a no-no, and it physically hurts you when you are subjected to it. As a Type A personality, what do you do during weekdays and weekends? Do you also plan your days ahead of time?
2. Workaholics
And what’s a 40-hour workweek? A vacation??? Sorry, but Type A people won’t waste any second or minute. [Read: 17 qualities of a good husband & why these traits in a man stand out]
Even during lunchtime, they want to have their work done ahead of time. For some, avoiding frequent trips to the restroom may be as simple as not drinking too much water.
3. Don’t sleep much
You don’t understand those cranky people in the morning and those who go to bed early. There’s always something to look forward to in the morning, so you get up—no, jump—out of bed every morning, all psyched up.
Furthermore, you always have something to do at night, and can’t stand turning in early. [Read: Am I a narcissist? 17 Narcissistic Personality Disorder questions to ask yourself]
How great would it be if everyone was born with a Type A personality? The feeling would have been already living in the world in the year 2050!
4. Productive
Candy Crush? Clash of Clans? What are those? Even your Spotify playlist is filled with songs that boost productivity.
There’s nothing like the sound of calendar and to-do notifications popping up on your phone all day to relax and soothe you. Not to mention, watching Netflix and Asian drama series is not an option. [Read: The best things to do when you’re stuck at home & feel productive]
5. Multi-taskers
Seriously, how do people live doing one thing at a time? Life is about doing at least three things simultaneously, or how else will anything ever get done?
If you can cook while reading and responding to emails, why not? Multi-tasking can be done at all times, but it’s not for everyone.
6. Problem-solvers
For you, venting or “unloading” is a waste of time. Instead of talking and whining about what’s wrong, you find a way to do something about it.
There’s a problem? Solve it! Don’t make the little problem a big problem. [Read: 20 relationship problems that push a couple apart or bring them closer]
We have to agree that this is one of the best things about having a Type A personality. You don’t stress too much about the problem. Instead, you find a solution and take care of it ASAP.
7. Accomplish their goals
You are not impressed by people who say, “I’m going to start a business,” “I am going to travel the world,” “I am going to climb a mountain,” or “I’m going to start a band.”
While it’s a good idea, to you, it’s only a pipe dream unless they actually do it—and the talkers usually don’t. For people who have a Type A personality, what big goals have you already achieved so far? [Read: 35 secrets to motivate yourself to achieve anything your heart desires]
8. To-do list is life
Something is soothing about writing a to-do list for just about anything. In fact, there’s no greater feeling than writing a tick mark on that square box.
And you always have something to do after checking all the boxes. It’s the same whether you’re at a grocery shop or a bookstore. To keep track of what you need, you make sure that you have a notepad at all times.
9. Energetic
Lazy people drive you up the wall. You don’t want to have anything to do with them. In fact, you’re working on a rocket ship to transfer all those lazy people to Pluto. [Read: Easy ways the perpetually busy can still find love]
That’s only a joke for now. In the end, though, if you’re part of a team that places a high value on time and productivity, you’ll have to work really hard. You don’t want to see the Type A’s go mad *that’d be a complete nightmare.*
10. Live by their calendars
Yes, you actually have calendars—and alarms for everything.
You have a weekly calendar for all your tasks, a monthly calendar for all your other tasks, and a yearly calendar so you can smugly see just how many things you’ve done in one year. [Read: Ways to get your “me time” in amid a hectic schedule]
Since technology has been advancing pretty quickly lately, most people use Google Calendars now. As far as we can tell, Type A’s don’t miss a thing.
11. Never late
Yes, you absolutely hate people who are late. Not only do they not show respect for your time, but they also make you waste more time by waiting for them *when a lot can already be done in those 5 minutes!*
Do you know who else hates latecomers? Your boss who has a Type A personality. What would you do? Be there in the conference room 10 minutes before the meeting. [Read: Feisty girl – 35 personality traits that make her so scarily sexy!]
12. Competitive
There’s no such thing as fun and games for you. Charades and Monopoly mean battle, and you would’ve had war paint all over your face each time if you hadn’t worried the paint would mess up your perfectly-applied makeup.
When it comes to game nights with coworkers or friends, Type A people are just as competitive as they are at work.
13. Leaders
Actually, working with a group frustrates you because you’re always surrounded by people who can’t tell a waltz from a tango.
As always, you’re better off doing the whole thing yourself while thinking about how you hate other people. [Read: Tried and tested ways to become a better leader at work]
Remember those times at school when you had been assigned to lead a group? Well, the responsibilities get bigger and tougher to handle in a corporate setting. You’re lucky if you find a group that has a Type A personality.
14. Loves the spotlight
Who doesn’t love getting all that praise and attention? You love the spotlight—admit it. Not that you work for all the glory and appreciation. [Read: How to be a real badass in 25 awesomely bad ways]
You work to get things done. Type A people always look forward to this. The spotlight is just the cherry on top and you unashamedly, unapologetically bask in it.
15. Perfectionists
You’ve been described as an overachiever, a perfectionist, a workaholic, and a Type A. Yet you have no problem with it.
In fact, you wonder why people think of perfectionism as something negative when it is the only purpose that should drive every action. [Read: 30 inspirational tips on how to get motivated to exercise]
Advantages of a Type A personality
Now that you know all the traits of a Type A personality, let’s look at some of the advantages of having one.
1. You can count on them to get things done – on time
If something needs to be done, then asking a Type A personality is what you should do. They are very task-oriented and tackle problems head-on. And if something needs to be done by a deadline, you can always be sure that the Type A won’t disappoint you.
2. Predictable and reliable
Because Type A personalities tend to be perfectionists, you know that they don’t want to let you down. And that’s because they can’t let themselves down. [Read: 18 naughty ways to make time for sex in a busy schedule]
They’re hard on themselves, so they always need to be predictable and reliable to feel good. And that benefits others too.
3. Great leaders
Since they are not good at “teamwork,” that means they are good leaders. They would rather just do everything themselves because then they know it will be done “right.”
They feel comfortable in the role of being the leader, and that is good for other people who would rather take a back seat.
Disadvantages of a Type A personality
While being a Type A can be a good thing, it doesn’t come without its disadvantages too. Here are some of them.
1. Perfectionism
Type As are perfectionists. And not that there’s anything wrong with wanting to do a good job on a project, but they take it to the extreme. In fact, nothing is ever good enough.
They find constant fault in their work and never seem to be fully satisfied with anything they do. They’re too hard on themselves. [Read: Dating a perfectionist – things you must know before you date one]
2. Judgmental
Because they are perfectionists, driven, energetic, and competitive, they can be judgmental of other people who aren’t like them. They don’t understand Type B’s need to relax and chill out. It seems like a waste of time to them, so they think people like that are lazy.
3. Highly stressed
Since they have such a drive for competition and success, it very frequently stresses them out.
And sometimes they are in a constant state of stress because they are always striving for achievement and perfectionism. Type Bs know that perfection is a myth and isn’t real. But Type As still try to reach it.
Potential health challenges of Type A behavior
As we said earlier in this feature, the whole concept of Type A and Type B personalities comes from research that was conducted by two cardiologists.
They found that being a Type A can affect someone’s health. Here’s how. [Read: The health benefits of hugging that’ll make you want to cuddle more]
1. Hypertension
When a person is under stress, then it raises their blood pressure. And because Type As have self-inflicted stress, they are at risk of having hypertension. So, they should keep their eye on it so it doesn’t get out of control.
2. Job stress
Since the Type A personality wants everything done perfectly – both by themselves and others – there can be a lot of job-related stress.
They are constantly judging either themselves, their colleagues, or their employees. It’s like they’re never satisfied with anything less than perfection. [Read: 17 life secrets to smile more often, feel great, and laugh your stress away]
3. Social isolation
If a Type A is an introvert, then they might be prone to social isolation. For example, if they are a workaholic and work at home *or even if they don’t,* they might spend all their time working on their projects and neglect their friends and family.
How to cope with Type A characteristics
If you’re a Type A personality, then you might be overly stressed out with your life. It’s not good to live under constant and chronic stress, so there are some things you can do to try to cope with being a Type A and make life easier.
1. Change your work life
Sure, you’re achievement-oriented, competitive, and want to climb the corporate ladder, but don’t push yourself too much. [Read: Work husband and wife – 49 work spouse signs you’re too close and rules to follow]
Instead, make sure you only do reasonable levels of work. If you can’t stop yourself, then enlist the help of a spouse, partner, family member, or friend.
2. Change thought patterns
One of the reasons that Type As are perfectionists is because they’re too hard on themselves. And of course, because of this, they frequently have negative thought patterns.
So, you should change them to more positive ones. Just stop your thought process and choose happier, less stressful options. [Read: Positive self-talk – what it is, where it comes from, and how to master it]
3. Fake it ‘til you make it
One of the biggest fears of a Type A is that they are not good enough. They might even feel like a fraud sometimes. So, just fake it ‘til you make it.
Act like you are good enough and that you have a hold on everything in your life. Then, you will be like that eventually.
4. Start a journal
Keeping a journal is underestimated as a useful mental and psychological tool. Writing down your thoughts and emotions with a pen and paper will help you get them out in the open. [Read: 45 truths and real questions to get to know yourself on a much deeper level]
When you see them, you can logically reflect on them and help yourself heal and calm down.
5. Face your fears
One of the reasons that a Type A is a perfectionist is because of the fear of failure. So, start small and face your fears.
For example, if you don’t have your whole week planned out by the minute, try to just relax and tell yourself it’s okay. Or, make it alright for yourself to chill out and watch a movie once in a while. [Read: How to be fearless – 18 ways to set aside fear and live like a champion]
6. Make it a game
One of the reasons Type A personalities are so stressed out and put so much pressure on themselves is that they take certain things very seriously.
So, try to make a game out of what frustrates you instead of letting it overwhelm you. When you have a sense of humor about it, then you’ll feel better.
7. Take a breath
It’s okay to relax and enjoy life. So, stop yourself and focus on your breathing, literally and metaphorically. [Read: How to reduce stress – 17 fastest hacks to a calmer and happier life]
Try some meditation and get your breathing and mind under control. You don’t always have to be on the go 24/7, so allow yourself to slow down.
8. Love your pets
Pets can be very calming and reassuring for most people. They love you unconditionally. So, if you have pets, then take the time to love and cuddle with them. If you don’t have a pet, then consider getting one if you like animals.
Traits that make you a Type B personality
Now that you know everything about the Type A personality, we need to talk about what makes someone a Type B. Here are the traits of this personality type. [Read: The omega personality – what it is, 25 signs, and what makes it so different]
1. Flexible
Type Bs tend to be very flexible with their schedules. They don’t like the thought of being “locked in” to any type of activity. Instead, they’d rather go with the flow and follow their feelings about what they want to do at any given moment.
2. Stress-free
People who are Type B personalities tend to have relatively low-stress levels when they are in a challenging situation.
They don’t tend to freak out very easily and just do what needs to be done. They don’t put pressure on themselves because of fear of failure or self-doubt. [Read: How to get a shy girl to feel relaxed and open up in bed]
3. Balanced
They are not extremists. In other words, they tend to have more balance in their lives. They are not workaholics like Type A, so they have an equally happy personal life as they do professional ones. They come across to others as quite peaceful.
4. Adaptable
Type B personalities aren’t rigid with their rules. That goes hand in hand with them being flexible. They are able to adapt to new situations pretty well and quickly.
They don’t worry about failing in order to succeed. This saves them a lot of pressure and unnecessary stress in their lives. [Read: 20 positive personality traits that can change your life forever]
5. Creative
They tend to be more creative and right-brained than Type As. Type B can be seen as a dreamer and less of a doer.
They have the potential to fulfill their vision and are good at brainstorming and coming up with new and unique ideas to create something exciting.
6. Not timely
You probably know people who are chronically late – the type where people refer to them as someone who “would be late to their own funeral.”
Well, those are the Type Bs. Time isn’t a priority to them, so they tend to not pay much attention to the clock. [Read: Lazy boyfriend – 20 signs, why guys get lazy in love, and how to help him change]
7. Procrastination
Since they are not time-conscious, Type Bs also tend to procrastinate – especially when they aren’t excited about doing something. They’re the types who leave writing the paper in school until hours before it’s due. Unlike Type A, who has it done weeks ahead of time.
8. Laid back
A lot of Type A personalities look at Type Bs and think they’re lazy. They feel the need to relax and be laid back. They don’t feel pressured to accomplish any task in any timely manner. If they don’t feel like doing something, then they don’t.
9. Patient
Type Bs tend to be very patient and understanding. For example, if someone doesn’t understand something, they realize that it’s normal. [Read: How to be patient in a new relationship and avoid risking a new love]
They don’t expect perfection from everyone. They let other people express their emotions and listen to them.
10. Don’t like multitasking
Type Bs tend to deal with one task at a time. They don’t like taking on more responsibility and disrupting their peace of mind.
For them, their mental health is more important than achieving more and being the best. Even if someone forces them to do it, they still don’t feel pressured.
11. Calmly goal-driven
Just because Type Bs are more laid back and relaxed doesn’t mean that they can’t be goal-driven too. They are just calmer about it. They just work quietly on their goals and don’t make a big deal about anything. [Read: 17 signs of a supportive partner who encourages you and your goals]
12. Don’t like criticism
They don’t like criticism because they don’t really believe in it. It’s like they know that it just impacts people in a negative way.
Not only do they not like being criticized, but they also don’t like giving it to other people either. If someone makes mistakes, they don’t lash out. Instead, they seek solutions.
13. Good at teamwork
Type Bs love to discuss and share their ideas with a team. They want to grow with other people and aren’t in a hurry to reach the end before others do. [Read: What is a social introvert? 17 personality traits that define them]
And they’re not competitive with anyone on their team either. They are democratic and seek opinions and input from everyone.
Advantages of a Type B personality
Just like the Type A personality, being a B isn’t necessarily good or bad. So, there are advantages to this personality type. Here they are.
1. Good stress management skills
Because they tend to be laid back and relaxed, they can handle stress a lot better than their A counterparts.
They don’t let the little things bother them, so their stress levels are a lot lower which means they are more peaceful. [Read: Passive aggressive personality – 15 signs to recognize the sourpuss]
2. Can adapt easily
If something unexpected happens, it doesn’t seem to bother them. They just go with the flow and then adjust themselves accordingly. Type As tend to freak out when something changes suddenly and that causes them even more stress.
3. Patience
Having patience with other people is a kind, loving thing to do. No one is perfect, and Type B personalities know that.
They don’t expect other people to move mountains and have fewer expectations, not only of other people but of themselves as well.
4. Better problem-solving skills than Type As
Because their judgment isn’t clouded by stress, they tend to be better at problem-solving than Type As. The As get overwhelmed with their stress and they can’t think straight.
But a Type B maintains their even temper and just calmly finds solutions. [Read: 15 INTJ personality traits that make them the absolute best]
Disadvantages of the Type B personality
As with everything and everyone, there are also disadvantages to having a Type B personality. Here are some of them.
1. Perceived as lacking drive and determination
Because they don’t like to push themselves or be overly competitive like the Type A personalities, they are sometimes perceived as lazy and lacking drive/determination. This may or may not be true, but through a Type A’s eyes, it is true.
2. Tendency to procrastinate
As we mentioned earlier, a lot of Type Bs are not very time conscious. They are the ones who tend to be late all the time and procrastinate. [Read: Ways to get your lazy girlfriend off her ass!]
This can make other people annoyed and think that they don’t respect their time. Time isn’t something that is important to a Type B.
3. People-pleasing tendencies
A Type B person tends to want everyone to be happy. And that’s great – but not when it turns into people-pleasing. Because of that, they are not the best leaders.
They care too much about what other people think and sometimes lack the ability to make executive decisions, even if they should. [Read: People pleaser – 21 signs you’re one and how to stop people pleasing]
Should you date someone who is Type A or Type B?
The easy answer is that you should date whomever you like. The more complicated answer, though, is that you should consider whether or not someone with a specific personality type can assimilate well into your own personality sphere.
A lot of times, people with different personalities mesh well and complement each other. For others, it can manifest itself as an obstacle that doesn’t do any good for the relationship.
So, how can you decide if you should date someone who is a Type A or a Type B? Knowing what to expect and how to deal with any issues that might come your way can be a good place to start. [Read: Selfish people – 20 ways to spot and stop them from hurting you]
Dating someone with a Type A personality
Even though they may not have as many friends as the easygoing Type B, Type A personalities are often very popular within the dating scene.
One reason for this may be that they’re simply more noticeable. They often walk quickly, making bold eye contact with others, and they also have a knack for dressing practically and looking put-together at the same time. [Read: Attention seeking behavior – why some people go looking for drama]
You won’t catch a Type A woman in a long, flowing skirt that they could trip over, and neither a male nor female of this type would be caught dead wearing a shirt with a large stain.
People of this type tend to be physically fit, too, which only raises their attractiveness level.
Although you may find yourself attracted to one of these dynamic individuals almost immediately, there are some issues you’re going to be faced with when dating them, mainly related to their sometimes hot-headed, hard-driving behavior. [Read: 50 relationship questions to test your relationship compatibility instantly!]
If you happen to be a fellow Type A, their actions may not be difficult for you to understand, but if not, they may completely baffle you at times.
When dating someone who is Type A, you need to prepare yourself for their high energy and stress-driven lifestyle. This is not to say that all Type A people are inclined to be stressed.
If you’re having trouble dealing with a partner whom you suspect may be Type A, or just want to learn more about these passionate creatures for future reference, keep reading below for more information on the motivations and preferences of society’s biggest go-getters. [Read: Do opposites actually attract or do they push each other away?]
1. They are more ambitious than Type B personalities
This means that work may take precedence before your relationship most of the time. If this is something that you can adjust to, then go for your Type A sweetheart.
If not, you’ll have to sit down and talk about your priorities before getting serious. [Read: Love or career? How to make the right choice]
2. They are highly organized
They want everything to go as smoothly as possible. Not all Type A people are compulsive, but you will find that they prefer organization as opposed to spontaneity. Still, your partner may like a sweet and thoughtful surprise now and again.
3. They are more conscious of how other people perceive them
This can be either good or bad, depending on how you wish others to perceive you. If you don’t care, then that’s fine.
However, your Type A partner might, and you will have to compromise on some things like how they deal with other people and how they might push their views onto you. [Read: Care less – stop giving a damn about what people think]
4. They are usually impatient
They want to accomplish everything quickly and correctly.
At home, as well as on the job, Type A individuals want to do everything right, and they want to get it done as fast as possible.
Some may have systematic ways of organizing things or accomplishing tasks *color-coded closets, anyone?* that may seem ridiculous to you, but humor them as much as you can – being able to control their environment makes them feel secure and happy.
Another possibly annoying trait stemming from their need to be correct is that they tend to anticipate what could go wrong in any situation. [Read: Signs your negative thinking is turning into a bad obsession!]
Try to listen politely to their concerns without laughing or dismissing them outright. After all, if one of their prophecies of doom ends up occurring, you can bet they’ll have some sort of contingency plan drawn up to pull you out of the mess!
5. They may come off as aggressive in conversation
Especially if they’re passionate when it comes to what they’re talking about, a Type A personality may appear as if they’re arguing with you, when they’re actually just sharing their opinions.
Type As also have a tendency to interrupt others, and this may be especially evident during the first few dates with one of these people, as we tend to revert to faulty behavior when we’re nervous. [Read: 30 alpha male characteristics that make a person a real alpha]
They usually interrupt not because they think what you have to say is unimportant – they’re just in such a rush to get all their ideas out that they neglect to remember that a conversation should be a two-way exchange!
Phrases such as, “Could I finish?” or “Do you mind if I cut in?” will come in handy here. Alternatively, you could just interrupt them when you want to say something.
Since they enjoy a quick back-and-forth exchange, most probably won’t mind! [Read: Whoa there! Signs you’re coming on way too strong]
6. They’re very time-conscious
You’ll rarely find a Type A person not wearing a watch, and if they’re not, they’ll likely be checking the time on their phone frequently. To Type A people, time is of the utmost importance, whether they’re at work or at play.
When a Type A date says they’ll arrive somewhere at 4 pm, you won’t catch them strolling in at 4:01 or later. Naturally, they’ll expect you to be on time, too.
Being frequently late for dates with your Type A is one way to get dumped pretty quickly, or at least receive numerous scoldings. [Read: How to be classy – 20 classy people traits that command awe and respect]
7. They hate waiting
Since they are so driven to be productive at every moment, Type As hate waiting for other people *or even things!* that aren’t moving fast enough.
Long line-ups, delays on the road due to construction, and lengthy wait times at restaurants tend to annoy them.
Sometimes, you can’t do anything about these minor annoyances, but these Type A pet peeves are just something to keep in mind when you’re planning what you’ll do on your next date, as well as deciding on the time of day you’ll do it. [Read: Ways to instantly recognize fake people and stay away]
8. They find it hard to relax
Relaxing generally isn’t Type A’s favorite activity, and being relaxed definitely isn’t their natural state. As well as walking at a brisk pace, many tend to gulp their food and drink down quickly, even when enjoying a romantic dinner at a nice restaurant.
It’s not that they don’t appreciate etiquette – they are just so used to getting one thing done and moving on to the next thing that they forget to ever break this pattern.
When they happen to be going a mile a minute during an activity, don’t feel the need to keep up with their breakneck pace. [Read: How to stop overthinking – secrets to go from overthinker to relaxer]
If they notice that you’ve adopted a more moderate pace, they may slow down to match you, allowing both of you to enjoy yourselves a bit more.
People of other personality types often enjoy a good nap, but due to their difficulty relaxing, Type As often struggle with sleeping for even a few hours at night.
Once their heads hit the pillow, thoughts about work, school, or hobbies may swirl through their minds, preventing them from getting much shut-eye. [Read: How to be relaxed on a date and confidently feel like yourself]
When you’re sleeping in the same bed, don’t be surprised if you glance at them in the middle of the night and their eyes are wide open, or you wake up at noon on a Saturday and find that their side of the bed looks as if it’s been abandoned hours before.
If you want to spend all day snoozing in the sack and watching Netflix, you shouldn’t feel guilty for doing so – just don’t expect your high-powered Type A honey to be there with you!
9. They often enjoy physical activity
Hiking up the tallest peak in the city? Going for a 12-mile run? Heaven forbid, skydiving?
Type A people generally enjoy exercise and other physical activities, sometimes even risky ones, if they’re in good shape and aren’t suffering from a medical condition that limits their physical mobility. [Read: The top 50 date ideas to wow your date every single time!]
Often, they get along best with others who take pleasure in athletic pursuits and can keep up with them, but if that’s not you, that doesn’t necessarily mean your relationship is doomed.
If you become their biggest cheerleader and wait at the finish with their favorite refreshments, they’ll love you forever!
Conclusion: Type A partners
Hopefully, all the information above has given you some insight into the sometimes-confusing enigma that is the Type A person. If you think you can handle their incredible zest for life, then, by all means, hang on and enjoy the ride! [Read: How to get motivated to exercise? 28 tips to try!]
However, if you’ve been reading all of this with horror, chances are, these extremely goal-oriented drivers aren’t the ideal matches for you.
There’s nothing wrong with that – feel free to leave the skydiving to others, and enjoy a night out with a sociable Type B, talk books with a Type C, or snuggle on the couch with a Type D instead!
Type A personalities are surrounded by negative assumptions, but that is just because people relate these traits to negative outcomes.
Ambitious and organized people are poised for success, which may make the sacrifice worth it. Their organization and conscientiousness are also positive factors because they can influence other people to improve themselves. [Read: Female-led relationship – how it works, and 21 pros when ladies lead love]
As for their less-than-savory traits, everybody is entitled to one flaw or another – just make sure that it does not harm other people or yourself.
Dating someone with a Type B personality
You may think that dating a Type B person means chilling and going with the flow, but they have their own downsides as well. They are more complacent and less likely to become motivated by a lack of success. [Read: 41 signs she wants you to chase her and must-knows to pursue a woman]
Dating someone who is Type B may be relaxing, but it could also be a little too relaxing. Here are some things to remember:
1. They don’t get easily stressed about a lack of achievement
That sounds like a good deal, but there are instances when one must become more motivated to get what one wants. If a Type B person decides not to pursue you because of their complacency, you will have to make the first move.
While there’s nothing wrong with that in general, complacency within a relationship can negatively affect couples. [Read: How to motivate yourself to do pretty much anything]
2. When it comes to competition, they either enjoy it even if they don’t win or they will simply back down
Competition should always be healthy, and backing down from a fight is usually a good idea. However, when it comes to relationships, people typically benefit more by seriously engaging their partners in existing issues.
The flaw in some Type B personalities is that they may just give the reins to their partners instead of trying to push their opinions on the matter, even if they are right.
3. They enjoy exploring new concepts and ideas and usually choose creative paths
This trait also exists in people with Type A personalities, but researchers see this more in Type B people.
If you’re dating a Type B person in a creative industry, you will have to invest a little bit of patience, because their work is not easily realized in one sitting. [Read: The perks and quirks of dating a writer]
We’re not saying that Type B people have issues at work, but it helps to understand exactly how you can embrace your partner’s passions and career.
4. They can be very reflective
This can conflict with a Type A person’s predisposition towards impatience and anxiety. While Type B people are still contemplating an issue, someone with a Type A personality might push for an immediate answer. A Type B person may need more time, but some relationship issues can’t afford to be sat on.
5. They don’t talk as much as Type A people
Obviously, this can be a problem in terms of communication, but you could always urge your partner to be more involved in the conversation. [Read: 72 happy conversation starters for couples who are getting serious]
The downside is that you’ll have to prod your partner to speak their mind, and that can be annoying at best and may be considered stonewalling at worst.
6. They are adaptable to change
Not only are they adaptable to change, but it also doesn’t bother them at all. That’s great on the one hand because not much really ruffles their feathers. But on the other hand, that means they don’t really need a lot of structure. Change doesn’t phase them.
7. They have a carefree approach to conflict resolution with their partner
Because Type B personalities don’t like criticism, they also don’t really like conflict either. So, they might even try to avoid conflict with their partners at all costs. [Read: How to resolve conflict – the 15 best ways to cut out the drama]
Even if and when they do engage in conflict, they are even-tempered and keep their emotions under control.
8. They don’t like to be rushed
Type A personalities can seem like they are always in a rush. But not a Type B. In fact, sometimes it feels like you need to light a fire underneath them to do anything. That can be frustrating to someone who isn’t a Type B.
Conclusion: Type B partners
Type B people might seem like the ideal partner, but some of their traits may conflict with your own personality and ideals.
The key is to balance things out by getting to know your partner better in order to adjust accordingly. That goes the same for them.
[Read: The 20 kinds of lovers that exist in this world]
Remember that both the Type A and B personalities are just theoretical generalizations. People’s personalities encompass a wider range than just two groups. It’s up to you to approach that person and find out whether your personalities match, regardless of which group you both fall into.
