By Donna Dunning
It’s often tempting to see differences as a problem rather than appreciate their value. The important first step in developing understanding and appreciation is to see the positive aspects of all preferences.
Reframing Thinking
If you prefer Feeling, you may find yourself labeling people who prefer Thinking as cold or unfeeling. Instead, reframe the characteristics of Thinking using positive descriptors such as:
• Logical
• Analytical
• Objective
Reframing Feeling
If you prefer Thinking, you may find yourself labeling people who prefer Feeling as overly emotional or illogical. Instead, reframe the characteristics of Feeling using positive descriptors such as:
• Compassionate
• Considerate
• Appreciative
Replacing negative descriptors with their positive counterparts emphasizes the benefits of having and/or using a preference.
What negative descriptors do you find yourself using for Thinking or Feeling? Can you reframe these more positively?
Information in this post has been modified and excerpted from TLC at Work: Training, Leading, Coaching all Types for Star Performance.