Reading a book that shifts your entire view of the world is a rare and powerful experience. For me, that book was Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson. Before diving into its pages, I considered myself a fairly patient and understanding person, but I had no idea how much more I could truly learn about human behavior. This book opened my eyes to the different ways people think, behave, and communicate—and, in doing so, it changed the way I see the world and interact with others.
Understanding the Four Personality Types
Erikson’s book introduces a fascinating framework based on color-coded personality types: red, yellow, green, and blue. These types represent the key traits that define a person’s behavior and decision-making style. Reds are dominant and result-oriented, Yellows are enthusiastic and social, Greens are calm and supportive, and Blues are analytical and detail-oriented.
Before reading Surrounded by Idiots, I often found myself frustrated by the different ways people approached problems or tasks. I would get annoyed with those who seemed too laid-back or, on the other hand, those who were too controlling. But after understanding the four personality types, I realized that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. No one is “better” or “worse” than anyone else; we just perceive and react to the world differently. Once I grasped this, it became easier to accept and appreciate the diversity of thought around me.
Shifting My Perspective on Communication
The most significant takeaway for me was how communication works, or doesn’t work, depending on the personality type of the person you’re speaking with. I used to wonder why some conversations felt so natural and others were like pulling teeth. After reading Erikson’s explanations, I realized that my communication style didn’t always align with the person on the other end of the conversation. I was trying to speak in a way that made sense to me, but it wasn’t always the most effective approach for the other person.
Now, I try to adjust my communication style based on the person I’m talking to. For example, when I’m speaking to a red, I keep things brief and to the point, focusing on results. With a yellow, I’m more enthusiastic and engage in a friendly manner. When talking to a green, I focus on being calm and understanding, and with a blue, I make sure to provide details and logic. This shift in how I approach conversations has drastically improved my relationships both professionally and personally.
Embracing the Differences
Before reading Surrounded by Idiots, I thought that people who were different from me were somehow flawed or challenging. I struggled to understand why some people made decisions that seemed so illogical, and I was quick to judge. Now, I embrace the differences that make each of us unique. I no longer see those who think differently as obstacles or “idiots,” but as people with valuable perspectives that I can learn from.
The book taught me that understanding others is not just about patience but about recognizing their inherent traits and responding accordingly. It also reminded me that I don’t have to change who I am to get along with others. I can still be myself, but by recognizing and respecting the personality types around me, I can communicate more effectively and build stronger connections.
Conclusion
Surrounded by Idiots opened my eyes to the complexity of human behavior and gave me a deeper understanding of how people interact with the world. It’s a book that not only helps you understand others but also challenges you to look at your own behavior and communication style. I’m no longer frustrated by differences; instead, I view them as an opportunity for growth and learning. The world is full of diverse personalities, and now I see it through a lens of curiosity and acceptance. It’s a shift in perspective that has made me more empathetic and patient, and ultimately, it’s helped me become a better communicator and a more understanding person overall.
If you’re interested in exploring Surrounded by Idiots and learning more about these personality types and how to communicate with them, you can get the book here.