The Art of SpeedReading People

1. Personality Type Reveals Consistent Behavioral Patterns

And one's personality is by far the best and most reliable predictor of behavior.

Predictable behavior. Despite individual uniqueness, people exhibit consistent patterns in how they are energized, perceive information, make decisions, and organize their lives. Personality Type, based on Carl Jung's theories and Isabel Myers' work, offers a framework for understanding these patterns. It is not about putting people in boxes, but rather about understanding their natural inclinations.

Four dimensions. The model uses four dimensions: Extraversion (E) or Introversion (I), Sensing (S) or Intuition (N), Thinking (T) or Feeling (F), and Judging (J) or Perceiving (P). Each person has a preference on each dimension, resulting in 16 distinct personality types. These preferences are not choices, but rather inborn tendencies.

Type code. Each type is represented by a four-letter code, such as ISTJ or ENFP. While every individual is unique, people of the same type share remarkable similarities in their behavior, values, and communication styles. Understanding these patterns allows for more effective communication and collaboration.

2. Extraversion and Introversion Dictate Energy Flow

Extraverts are "other centered." By this we mean they both get energy from and focus their energy toward people and things outside of themselves.

Energy source. The Extraversion (E) and Introversion (I) dimension describes how people are energized. Extraverts gain energy from interacting with the external world, while Introverts gain energy from spending time alone in their internal world. This difference influences social behavior, communication style, and work preferences.

Social interaction. Extraverts tend to have large social networks and enjoy being around people, while Introverts prefer smaller groups and value solitude. Extraverts often initiate contact, while Introverts may wait for others to reach out. This does not mean that Introverts are shy or antisocial, but rather that they have different needs for social interaction.

Work style. Extraverts often prefer open-door policies and managing by walking around, while Introverts prefer closed doors and focused, uninterrupted work. Understanding these preferences can help create more productive and satisfying work environments for both types.

3. Sensing and Intuition Shape Information Perception

Sensors see the trees, while Intuitives see the forest.

Information intake. The Sensing (S) and Intuition (N) dimension describes how people perceive information. Sensors focus on facts, details, and concrete experiences, while Intuitives focus on patterns, possibilities, and abstract concepts. This difference influences how people learn, solve problems, and communicate.

Focus on details. Sensors tend to be practical, realistic, and detail-oriented, while Intuitives are often creative, imaginative, and future-oriented. Sensors trust direct experience, while Intuitives trust their gut instinct. This difference can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications.

Worldview. Sensors are often drawn to practical subjects with tangible applications, such as engineering and science, while Intuitives are often interested in theoretical studies like philosophy and psychology. Recognizing these differences can help bridge the gap between these two distinct worldviews.

4. Thinking and Feeling Guide Decision-Making Processes

For Thinkers, logic rules. When making a decision, it's as if they take a step back and analyze the issue logically and impersonally.

Decision criteria. The Thinking (T) and Feeling (F) dimension describes how people make decisions. Thinkers rely on logic, objectivity, and impersonal analysis, while Feelers rely on personal values, empathy, and the impact on others. This difference influences how people approach conflict, make ethical choices, and lead others.

Objective vs. subjective. Thinkers tend to be assertive, analytical, and focused on the bottom line, while Feelers tend to be empathetic, compassionate, and focused on harmony. Thinkers value truth and honesty, even if it hurts someone's feelings, while Feelers value tact and diplomacy, even if it means telling a little white lie.

Gender differences. While both men and women can be Thinkers or Feelers, there is a statistical tendency for more men to be Thinkers and more women to be Feelers. This can lead to misunderstandings and stereotypes, but understanding the underlying type preferences can help bridge the gap.

5. Judging and Perceiving Reflect Lifestyle Preferences

Judging refers to an innate drive, to close things down, make a decision, or to judge.

Organization style. The Judging (J) and Perceiving (P) dimension describes how people like to organize their lives. Judgers prefer structure, order, and planning, while Perceivers prefer flexibility, spontaneity, and keeping their options open. This difference influences how people manage their time, approach deadlines, and handle unexpected events.

Control vs. flexibility. Judgers tend to be organized, decisive, and goal-oriented, while Perceivers tend to be adaptable, curious, and process-oriented. Judgers like to make plans and stick to them, while Perceivers prefer to go with the flow and respond to whatever comes their way.

Work ethic. Judgers often have a strong work ethic and like to finish tasks before relaxing, while Perceivers often have a play ethic and are comfortable deferring work until after they enjoy some compelling experience. Understanding these differences can help create more harmonious and productive relationships.

6. Temperament Highlights Core Values and Drives

A type's hierarchy is really a blueprint of its natural strengths and weaknesses.

Four temperaments. Combining the Sensing/Intuition and Judging/Perceiving dimensions creates four temperaments: Traditionalists (SJ), Experiencers (SP), Conceptualizers (NT), and Idealists (NF). Each temperament has its own core values, motivations, and behavioral patterns. Understanding temperament provides a deeper insight into people's needs and desires.

Traditionalists (SJ). Value responsibility, duty, and service to society. They are reliable, hardworking, and respect authority.
Experiencers (SP). Value freedom, spontaneity, and living in the moment. They are adaptable, playful, and enjoy physical sensations.
Conceptualizers (NT). Value competence, intelligence, and innovation. They are independent, analytical, and enjoy solving complex problems.
Idealists (NF). Value authenticity, meaning, and harmonious relationships. They are empathetic, compassionate, and strive to make a positive impact on the world.

Hierarchy of functions. Each type has a hierarchy of cognitive functions, with a dominant function (Lead), an auxiliary function (Second), a tertiary function (Third), and an inferior function (Least). Understanding this hierarchy helps to predict behavior and identify potential strengths and weaknesses.

7. The E/I-Feeling Pattern Unveils Emotional Expression

When people direct their feelings at others, and make public value judgments, it is called Extraverting Feeling.

Emotional expression. The Extraverted (E) and Introverted (I) Feeling pattern describes how people express their emotions and values. Some types naturally express their feelings outwardly, while others keep them more private. This difference can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

Extraverted Feeling. Types that Extravert Feeling (FJs and TPs) are often warm, friendly, and expressive. They are skilled at connecting with others and creating harmony. However, they may also be prone to people-pleasing and taking on too much responsibility for others' feelings.

Introverted Feeling. Types that Introvert Feeling (TJs and FPs) are often reserved, private, and independent. They have strong personal values and are committed to living authentically. However, they may also struggle to express their emotions and may come across as cold or aloof.

Gender roles. Cultural expectations can influence how people express their emotions. Women are often encouraged to Extravert Feeling, while men are often encouraged to Introvert Feeling. This can make it more difficult to accurately identify someone's true type.

8. SpeedReading Relies on Clues, Not Stereotypes

Accurate SpeedReading results when we observe a behavior that is repeated, and/or when we see a pattern emerge that is typical of a particular preference.

Observe patterns. SpeedReading involves observing a variety of clues related to appearance, language, body language, occupation, education, and interests. It is important to look for patterns of behavior, rather than relying on single instances or stereotypes.

Consider context. Behavior is influenced by a variety of factors, including the situation, cultural background, and personal experiences. It is important to consider the context when interpreting clues and avoid making assumptions.

Avoid jumping to conclusions. SpeedReading is a process of elimination, not instant judgment. Start with what you are most sure about and gradually narrow down the possibilities as you gather more information. Be open to changing your mind as you learn more.

9. SpeedReaching Adapts Communication to the Individual

"Do unto others as they would like done unto them."

Rewriting the Golden Rule. Effective communication requires adapting your style to the other person's preferences. This means understanding their motivations, values, and communication style, and tailoring your message accordingly.

Maximize similarities. Look for common ground and build on shared interests and values. This creates a connection and makes it easier to communicate effectively.

Minimize differences. Be aware of potential biases and misunderstandings that can arise from type differences. Adapt your communication style to bridge the gap and avoid offending or alienating the other person.

Bridging technique. Use the preferences you have in common to create a connection. The more preferences you share, the wider and stronger the bridge. If you share no preferences, focus on understanding their values and motivations.

10. Type Knowledge Fosters Understanding and Empathy

With better communication come increased understanding, tolerance, and even peace. We strive for those goals.

Increased understanding. Learning about Personality Type can help you better understand yourself and others. It provides a framework for appreciating differences and recognizing the value of each type.

Enhanced tolerance. By understanding the motivations and values of different types, you can become more tolerant of their behavior and less likely to judge them based on your own preferences.

Improved communication. By adapting your communication style to the other person's preferences, you can increase the likelihood of being understood and build stronger relationships.

Greater empathy. By putting yourself in the other person's shoes, you can develop greater empathy and compassion for their experiences. This can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling interactions.

Last updated: February 25, 2025