Need Fuels Work Method, Part 1- Idealist

[fuzzynavelnot21]

The following discussion is reliant on the accuracy of the theory that our temperaments are genetically set before birth. I will assume that such a theory is correct. Therefore, the purpose of this topic is not to debate that issue.

The conjecture I make in this discussion is made on the following basis. Keirsey states on page 23 of Brains and Careers: “So it is that our human instincts shape our human actions....Thus our instincts predispose us to try to achieve some results more than others, which is to say that we are born with a certain temperament that inclines us to want some results more than others.”

Thus, my conjecture* is that one pursues one’s temperament-specific work method** in order to meet one’s primary need. Brains and Careers tells us that each of us has an in-born need that is temperament-based (thus there are four different needs). For example, the Idealist need is to bond with others. How does this need connect to the temperament-specific work method, in the case of Idealists: enabling well-being? The work method is the means to the end of fulfilling the need. It is this pursuit of meeting the need that fuels, or motivates, the work method. Our skill in executing the work method subsequently improves through frequent and regular practice^ in the pursuit of fulfilling this need. So, it can be said that our primary agenda is to fulfill our need, with practice resulting in a by-product that is known as our work method. An example for the Idealist temperament is shown below.

Idealist: The Diplomats' primary need is to be bonded with others. Brains and Careers says on page 124, “...to pledge, to promise, or to avow are only means to an end, the end being assurance that the Idealist is bonded with others. No other means will do, for in the view of Idealists no bond exists that is not secured by a promise, pledge or avowal.” If this need is set at birth, due to temperament, then the means of fulfilling the need becomes the primary agenda.

In concert with a life-long quest to meet their need to bond with others, Idealists develop methods that enable others’ well-being: Advising, Advocating, Conciliating, Educating. These well-being enabling occupations require Idealists to bond with others, thus fulfilling this need regularly and continually. How is this concept observed for each specific role variant?

Advisor- In an effort to feel bonded with others, Advisors choose to engage the person of their focus in a face-to-face manner, confronting, or contending with, the issues directly and giving directives. When they are able to attach themselves to another for this specific purpose and receive recognition in return for their efforts, the Advisor feels bonded.

Advocator- CoWorking Diplomats pursue the action of obtaining information, through inquiry, and then pass along their newly discovered or dreamt up ideas to whoever will listen. They learn very quickly that this method achieves a link to others, thus fulfilling their need to feel bonded.

Conciliator- These Accomodative Idealists gain a sense of connection with people by seeing a need and responding to fill that need. Put in other words, in an effort to acquire a bond with another, they sooth, comfort, appease and reconcile.

Educator- By taking the preemptive route, the Educator aspires to direct a group, lead, and give purpose to those around them. In doing so, they make an assurance of their interest in the other and expect that such assurances are met with an eagerness to comply. When such compliances are made, the Educator feels bonded.
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* This is not directly stated in Brains and Careers or any other works in Keirsey Temperament Theory.

** Work Methods – methods specific to brain type and character (ex: Diplomatic Idealist)

^ Practice - “By continuous practice we gradually learn how and therefore come to know how to use tools and words. And by learning how to use tools and words we become more informed, capable, observant, and imaginative.” - Brains and Careers page 31. For further discussion of this topic, see also here.

[unders]

Interesting observations, yea i would agree. Adivisors and Advocators tend to observer more while educators and concilitators are probably more preemptive and come to conclusions more.

[Goodrum]

It's really interesting, I wonder if this is why we; (the DR's conciliators), need to disappear, climb the mountain, go sit in the cave, just to chill and withdraw. Why spirituality seems to be the constant search, and a source of strength, recharge the batteries..thinking out loud again.

Thanks Fuzzy, great food for thought.

[SunPath]

Isn't this interesting? When I first read this I was intrigued with the idea Fuzzy came up with, that need fuels work methods. I had never linked those ideas up, myself. I think Fuzzy proposes something really enlightening here.

Have you ever wondered why we do what we do? Why do Idealists enable well-being? Because they are altruistic? Or just nice? Are they born focusing on others? Fuzzy's idea that they are really pursuing their primary need and that is what fuels their work method of enabling others' well-being makes a lot of sense to me. It agrees with the thought non-Idealists often remind Idealists of, that no one is altruistic, and everyone is selfish.

Indeed, I believe we are all selfish. It is inherent to personal survival and is evidenced in our behavior. And yet, many Idealists will argue against that, with their desire to be seen as benevolent and their present outlook of altruism.* Fuzzy's unique idea seems to resolve the paradox. It rings true. It marries the two ideas of altruism, that Idealists defend and take deep pride in, and non-idealist's perception that everyone is selfish, Idealists included.

Who would have thought that Idealist's altruistic outlook and continuous efforts of enabling others' well-being comes from a selfish need to bond with others? And perhaps that also explains, in part, why it is so important to Idealists that they be seen as benevolent. It would seem an integral part of the job description of a well-being enabler. Idealists wouldn't be able to draw close to too many, if others perceived them as say, the opposite: malevolent. That would push others away. So, that may be why it is so important to Idealists that they be seen as benevolent. Again, it is another selfish tool, an attractant, in the pursuit of fulfilling their need of bonding with others.

I enjoy this concept as well, because it comforts me to imagine that all types bring their work methods to the table as a result of pursuing their primary need. This may be selfish, but that means we can always count on others behaving this way, bringing their best to the community. As an example, Idealists will never give up their efforts of enabling well-being and the world benefits from this constant personal drive.

This idea is so enlightening to me, I look forward to reading about the other temperaments in parts II, III and IV. Fuzzy, tell us why they do what they do--how their self preservation guarantees their continual contribution to society, and the resulting success of this arrangement.

Great job, Fuzzy. Thank you for your fascinating "enlightening perceptions." You always bring something interesting and new to the table, and your grasp of Keirsey Temperament Theory is comprehensive. Welcome to the team! We are glad to have you!

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*as opposed to Guardian duty, Rational pragmatism, and Artisan hedonism (Brains and Careers, page 11)

[SunPath]

Fuzzy:

So, it can be said that our primary agenda is to fulfill our need, with practice resulting in a by-product that is known as our work method.

So, who are Idealists working for, if their work is a result of pursuing their primary need? They are working for themselves! They are entrepreneurs!

And this must be true of each one of us, since personal need fuels the work method for all of the types.

[crowgirl]

I have studied pum & pumll for a long time, but am totally green to the new terms. How do I find out what type of idealist I am. Where can I get a copy of Brains & careers?

I have always tested as an INFJ and feel that is correct. According to what fuzzy wrote I would consider myself a "advisor", how do I know for sure?

I have always contended that idealist are selfish as our unselfish acts, feed such an internal need.

[SunPath]

You, my friend, are likely an Advisor Idealist. INFJ are out-dated letters that David Keirsey has replaced with type names, such as Advisor Idealist, the latest appearing in Brains and Careers. I have posted a blog in my forum for ordering information.

[crowgirl]

Thanks, I'll order ASAP.

[fuzzynavelnot21]

Thanks for your comments Angela! I'm glad this idea makes sense to you. Its easier for me to 'see' this idea in regards to Idealists than in relation to the other types.

[Earl]

This is beautiful Fuzzy! Absolutely brilliant! Maybe you should get a member of the type you're doing next to help you. Though this might be hard to see for the S types.
I don't see any problems with this (cough where are the rationals cough) , but if you want my help with the others I'd be glad to offer my assistance .