Going Orange: How to Tap Into Your Spontaneous Side
Tuesday, July 21, 2020
by Lesley Dupre
Life
Going Orange: How to Tap Into Your Spontaneous Side
Do you have trouble being spontaneous? Does competition make you nervous? Does change stress you out? Do you hesitate to take charge or share your opinions?
Spontaneity, competitiveness, adaptability, leadership and assertiveness are all qualities of a particular personality type, which under the True Colors spectrum is called “Orange.” (You can learn more about True Colors personality assessments here, but it’s not necessary to understand this article.) But even if you struggle with these qualities, they are still inside you. In True Colors language, we might say Orange is your palest color.
It might be useful sometimes for you to tap into those qualities. You may be called to lead a project, or you might be thrust into a volatile situation, or you may need to relate to someone who has a Bright Orange personality.
Whatever the need, you can be more successful in those situations if you learn how to better access your Orange traits. Here are a few ways to do that.
True Colors tips: How to unleash your Orange
- Consider when your Orange is brightest. First, think about when you have been most spontaneous, adventurous or competitive in your life. What were the surrounding circumstances? What was the outcome? Can you recreate that environment?
- Think about a bright Orange person you admire. Think about an adventurous or competitive person you respect. What do you like about them? What value do they bring to your life or work?
- Try something new once per week. It could be as small as sampling a new dish or as big as skydiving. It could even just mean changing your routine slightly; if you normally eat meals in the kitchen, try the patio instead. The idea is to broaden your perspective.
- Study improv. Improvisational comedy is all about being spontaneous, while being able to read the room and collaborate with the people around you. You don’t have to take a full class, but consider reading a book on improv or trying a few improv icebreakers in a work meeting.
- Play a game with others. Whether it’s a board game, a sport or a game on your phone, find something to play that involves competing with friends rather than against the computer. A short game could double as that icebreaker at work.
- Speak up. Is there something you’ve wanted to say for a long time? An opinion you’ve held back or an issue you’ve been afraid to confront? Consider if there is a respectful and constructive way to voice it – and if so, do it!
- Rearrange your desk or a room in your house. Even if it’s just a couple pieces of furniture. See if a new setup can help you break out of a rut and give you a new perspective.
- Have a walking meeting. Or at least an outdoor meeting. See how fresh air and new surroundings bring new ideas to the table.
- Make an effort for the Oranges in your life. Finally, even if you have trouble “feeling Orange” yourself, you can help the Oranges you know be more successful if you can allow them freedom, give them hands-on projects, let them joke around, and rely on them for outside-the-box thinking.
This blog is part of a series on how to tap into your entire spectrum of personality strengths. We’ll explore all four True Colors personality types in the coming weeks.
Balcom Agency offers True Colors personality assessments to our marketing clients so they can strengthen their communication with each other as well as with their customers. Contact us about scheduling a True Colors workshop for your team.
Tags: Culture, True Colors