Temperament theory is a simple, easy to use approach to identifying personality types that coaches can easily put to work in their practice. At the core of this theory is the belief that individuals can be sorted into four basic dispositions, or temperaments, each of which is associated with the four humors from ancient philosophy. Once a coach has identified a particular client’s temperament, figuring out what the client needs out the coaching process becomes much simpler.
The Four Temperaments: Sanguine
Sanguine individuals are known for their extroverted personalities and their ability to socialize easily in large groups or social gatherings. Often referred to as the life of the party, you can spot sanguine clients by their habit of speaking more loudly than others and a general lack of follow through. As a coach, you will find that these individuals can benefit from learning how to complete projects even once it no longer seems particularly interesting or enjoyable.
The Four Temperaments: Choleric
People who have a choleric temperament typically have a reputation for getting out there and making things happen. Choleric people rely on their natural drive and ambition to lead people with different temperaments toward reaching attainable goals. As choleric clients usually do not have much trouble getting things done in their professional lives, coaches often help these individuals with relationship issues, personal aspirations and finding balance in their lives.
The Four Temperaments: Melancholic
Melancholic clients are known their preoccupation with the inner life. Prone to creative pursuits and a tendency to dwell on global and national beyond their control, people with a melancholic temperament. While these individuals are usually quiet self-reliant, they often get so carried away on a single project that they lose sight of the big picture. Melancholic clients often turn to professional coaches for help with reaching long term goals and overcoming a natural sense of pessimism.
The Four Temperaments: Phlegmatic
Phlegmatics are considerably more relationship oriented than people with other temperaments and are known for being particularly consistent, observant and reliable workers. While phlegmatic individuals are very open and approachable, they have a tendency to resist change and avoid new experiences. Coaches can help phlegmatic clients branch out on their own and start following their own aspirations rather than waiting for someone else to lead the way.