[xyzelement]

I found the clarity of your thinking and writing refreshing, it's rare for someone to observe and recognize these archetypes. I by and large agree with how you see it.

One thing jumped out:

>> I think some people are just wired that way, or perhaps set on that course by environmental factors early in life. Either way, it's not a choice. So I think it's somewhat of a tragic condition.

and

>> My advice would be that if you're consistently getting negative feedback about personality traits from others, take it seriously.

If you think about it these two comments are contradictory. Either you are a victim of your programming, or you have the power to (slowly and painfully) recognize it and change.

I am a firm believer that people ultimately can recognize their problems and change. Recognition is the harder part. For most of us, to recognize the really deep and ugly things about ourselves is really hard and often is only done when someone has hit bottom and are forced to confront that there's something wrong. It's easy to say "listen to feedback" but it's impossible to convince someone they should until they've had some painful experience that forced them to recognize there's something that needs to be heard. But it's possible and important.

The other thought as I was reading your comment - I think you'll enjoy Ray Dalio's Principles book.

[austincheney]

I quote that book in my HN profile and so many people on HN have found it grossly offensive.

Edit: Just wanted to add that it’s an incredible book that I recommend to everybody.

[wademealing]

>> My advice would be that if you're consistently getting negative feedback about personality traits from others, take it seriously.

This is bland and simple advice at best, that only serves the 'groups' best interest, not the individual.

Half the people you meet are below average intelligence, I'd strongly advise not listening to at least half of what people have to say. The other half could also be giving self-serving advice that isn't in your best interest.

My advice is to ignore everyone.

[sdoering]

Since when does"take it seriously" mean follow the group's mainstream?

I read the op to imply that one should seriously think and reflect on why this feedback occurrs and if there is some kernel of truth within.

If I constantly get feedback I evaluate it and reflect on it. But that doesn't mean I need to implement everything.