Navigating the Storm: A Colorful Voyage Through Stress

Embark on a vivid voyage through the storm of stress, exploring how our unique personality temperaments navigate the tempest. Discover how the hues of Blue, Gold, Green, and Orange guide us through life’s turbulent waters, unveiling the unseen anchors and winds that either steady our course or stir the waves.

As we all set sail on the choppy seas of daily life, the winds of worry are inevitable yet how we maneuver through the tempest is distinctly unique. Our inherent personality types, the inborn captains of our vessels, chart the course through this voyage. Let’s envisage these temperaments as vibrant hues—Blue, Gold, Green, and Orange—each adding its own color to our journey. Each color illuminates a unique aspect of how we experience stress. This narrative is not a comprehensive guide, but a glimpse into how the stormy waters stir differently for each temperament, often exacerbated when our cherished values are brushed aside or when we’re restrained from pursuing our joys. Through the lens of each color, we’ll explore how our temperament can either anchor us amidst the storm or become the wind in our sails towards serene waters.

“So we shall let the reader answer this question for himself: who is the happier man, he who has braved the storm of life and lived or he who has stayed securely on shore and merely existed?”
Hunter S. Thompson

Blue: The Harmonic Rescuers

Blues, the poetic souls, hear the whispers of stress in the wind. They’re akin to seasoned sailors who, when the waves get wild, delve into crafting soul-soothing tunes. They often anchor themselves in a whirlpool of “shoulds.” Yet, when they let go of these anchoring thoughts, they find the rhythm to dance on the turbulent waters. Amidst the storm, they might find solace in weaving new dreams, embarking on a passion project that’s like a lighthouse amidst the roaring waves.

Relationship Strains. Blue individuals highly value trust and loyalty in relationships. Experiencing personal rejection or infidelity can trigger significant stress for them. They are deeply hurt by broken promises and unfaithfulness, which contradict their core values. When faced with relationship strains, they may spend extended periods ruminating over situations, seeking reassurances to alleviate their anxieties. They are likely to seek open dialogues to resolve issues and restore the trust and understanding they cherish in relationships.
Communication Barriers. Communication is essential for Blue individuals as it fosters understanding and connection. When communication breaks down, they feel isolated and misunderstood. They thrive on open, honest dialogues and find it stressful when communication is limited or when there’s a failure to discuss and resolve issues. They may overthink conversations, worry about the right words to use, and are eager to resolve misunderstandings to restore harmony in their interactions.
Violence and Aggression. Violence and aggression are distressing for Blue individuals who prefer peaceful and harmonious interactions. They find encounters with cruel or hostile behaviors extremely stressful and may feel helpless in such situations. They tend to be peacemakers, seeking to resolve conflicts and promote understanding. However, the harsh words and actions of others can linger in their minds, causing prolonged distress.
Disregard for Emotions. Being emotionally sensitive, Blues find the disregard for emotions quite stressful. They empathize deeply and feel hurt when they or others are treated insensitively. They value emotional openness and understanding and may dwell on instances where emotions were brushed aside. They are likely to reach out to those hurt, offering empathy and understanding, and seek environments where emotional expression is encouraged and respected.
Lack of Social Support. Social support is crucial for Blues. They value close friendships and family connections. Experiencing a lack of social support or an inability to socialize can lead to feelings of loneliness and stress. They might overextend themselves to maintain social bonds, which can further exacerbate their stress levels. Cancelled plans or unreturned texts or calls can disappoint them, and they may find themselves over-analyzing situations, longing for the social interactions and understanding that they crave.
Insincerity and Dishonesty. Individuals with a Blue temperament value honesty and sincerity. They find insincerity and dishonesty very unsettling as it disrupts the trust and open communication they strive for in relationships. Encountering deceitful behaviors can cause a significant amount of stress, leading to a feeling of betrayal and mistrust. They might spend a considerable amount of time worrying about the authenticity of interactions and may go to great lengths to ensure transparency in their relationships.
Conflict and Discord. Conflict and discord are highly stressful for Blues who thrive on harmony and mutual understanding. They often find themselves in the role of mediators, attempting to resolve disputes and restore peace. However, being in the midst of conflict can evoke anxiety and concern, especially if resolutions are hard to come by. They may dwell on disagreements long after they occur, seeking ways to mend fences and ensure harmonious interactions in the future.
Discrimination and Stereotyping. Experiencing or witnessing discrimination and stereotyping can be deeply distressing for Blues. They value equality, inclusivity, and understanding among people. Encountering prejudiced attitudes or behaviors can evoke a strong emotional response, leading to feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration. They may engage in activities to promote inclusivity and challenge stereotypes, as a way to cope with the distress caused by discrimination.
Disconnection from Others. Feeling disconnected from others can evoke a sense of loneliness and stress in Blues. They thrive on meaningful interactions and relationships. When they feel a lack of connection, whether due to physical distance or emotional detachment, it can be quite disheartening. They may seek to bridge the gap by reaching out and rekindling relationships, yet the stress of disconnection can linger, prompting a quest for deeper understanding and bonding.
Sensitivity Issues. Blues are often sensitive to the emotions and needs of others. They may find it stressful when their sensitivity is not reciprocated or misunderstood. Encountering insensitivity or a lack of empathy can evoke feelings of disappointment and distress. They may worry about the well-being of others and feel hurt when their attempts to provide support are rebuffed or ignored. Over time, recurring sensitivity issues can cause a strain on their emotional well-being, as they navigate the balance between being empathetic and protecting their own emotional health.
Self-Centeredness. Encountering self-centeredness can be unsettling for Blues who treasure empathy and consideration for others. They find self-absorbed attitudes contrary to their belief in mutual respect and understanding. The lack of consideration from self-centered individuals can cause stress, prompting Blues to either distance themselves or strive to foster a more empathetic interaction.
Isolation and Confinement. Feeling isolated or confined can cause significant stress for Blue individuals who value freedom and connection. Whether it’s physical confinement or emotional isolation, the lack of interaction and understanding can evoke feelings of loneliness and anxiety. They may strive to overcome these barriers, seeking meaningful connections and open environments to alleviate the stress associated with isolation and confinement.

“Kindness is the only service that will stand the storm of life and not wash out.”
Abraham Lincoln

Gold: The Steady Navigators

Golds are our meticulous cartographers, who chart the course with precision. When clouds of chaos gather, they might find serenity in re-drawing their maps, re-organizing their to-do lists to find the most efficient route through the storm. Reaching out to their trusted crew, sharing their worries over a warm cup of cocoa, could be their way of finding calm amidst the chaos.

Disorder and Disorganization. Golds have a knack for orderliness and a structured environment. The sight of disorder and disorganization can trigger a wave of stress as it stands as a direct contradiction to their intrinsic values. They thrive where there’s a clear structure, and every item or task has a designated place or timeline. When plunged into chaotic settings, they might find their stress levels escalating, hindering their productivity. They may find themselves compelled to rectify the disarray, dedicating time and effort to restore order. For instance, a Gold individual may feel compelled to stay late at work to reorganize a messy workspace, feeling a sense of unease until order is restored. The stress stemming from disorder often pushes them to seek or create structured, predictable environments wherever they go.
Lack of Discipline and Responsibility. A display of indiscipline or irresponsibility is akin to a red flag for Gold individuals. They hold discipline and responsibility in high regard, often embodying these traits in their personal and professional lives. Encountering individuals who shirk responsibilities or act impulsively without considering the consequences can evoke frustration and stress. For example, a team member missing deadlines or displaying a careless attitude towards tasks can trigger anxiety in Gold individuals. They may find themselves picking up the slack, shouldering additional responsibilities to ensure the successful completion of tasks. The stress stemming from such encounters may also drive them to instill a sense of responsibility in others, emphasizing the importance of discipline in achieving goals.
Unmet Expectations. Golds often set clear, attainable goals and harbor expectations that align with their values and standards. When expectations are unmet, whether personally or by others, it can evoke a feeling of disappointment and stress. For instance, if a project they are overseeing doesn’t meet the pre-established benchmarks, they might dwell on the perceived failure, analyzing what went wrong and how it could have been avoided. They may also experience anxiety about future endeavors, fearing a repetition of unmet expectations.
Nonconformity and Rebellion. Golds value adherence to established norms and protocols. Encounters with nonconformity or rebellion can trigger stress as it challenges the stability and predictability they cherish. For example, a colleague challenging established procedures or openly rebelling against organizational norms can evoke discomfort and concern. They may find themselves at odds with nonconformist individuals, experiencing stress as they strive to uphold the established order. The tension arising from such encounters can linger, especially if it disrupts the stability of their environment.
Vagueness and Ambiguity. Vagueness and ambiguity are stress triggers for Golds who thrive on clarity, precision, and well-defined plans. They may find it challenging to navigate situations where instructions are unclear or goals are ambiguously defined. For instance, an ambiguously worded email or a vaguely defined project scope can send them into a spiral of stress as they struggle to decipher the exact expectations. They may spend considerable time seeking clarity or attempting to define vague parameters, which can be a source of frustration and anxiety. The stress associated with vagueness and ambiguity often drives them to seek or create clarity, ensuring that goals, instructions, and expectations are precisely defined and understood.
Criminal and Irresponsible Behavior. Gold individuals value law, order, and ethical conduct. Encountering criminal or irresponsible behavior can be deeply distressing for them. They may find themselves feeling agitated or anxious when witnessing or learning about actions that blatantly disregard legal or moral standards. For instance, discovering fraudulent activities within their organization can evoke a strong desire to rectify the situation, along with feelings of disappointment and betrayal. The stress stemming from such encounters often drives them to uphold and advocate for adherence to ethical, legal, and moral standards.
Lack of Preparation. Preparation is a hallmark of the Gold temperament. They believe in thorough planning to ensure smooth execution of tasks. Encountering situations where lack of preparation is evident can trigger stress. For example, walking into a meeting where materials are not ready or agendas are not set can cause anxiety. The stress associated with this can also motivate them to instill a culture of preparation and planning among their peers.
Disrespect and Rudeness. Respect and courteous interactions are important to Gold individuals. Encountering disrespect or rudeness can be disheartening and stressful. They value a respectful discourse and believe that every individual deserves courtesy. Experiencing or witnessing rude behavior, whether in personal interactions or professional settings, can evoke feelings of anger or disappointment. They may find themselves attempting to address the disrespectful behavior or distancing themselves from rude individuals to manage the stress associated with such encounters.
Wasted Resources. Efficient use of resources is crucial for Gold individuals. They are often meticulous in planning to ensure resources are utilized optimally. Encountering wastage or squandering of resources can evoke frustration and stress. For example, witnessing a project run over budget due to poor planning or misuse of funds can be very unsettling. They may find themselves analyzing the cause of wastage and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.
Inability to Relax. The diligent nature of Gold individuals can sometimes hinder their ability to relax, especially when tasks are pending or problems unresolved. This inability to unwind can lead to stress, impacting their overall well-being. They may find it challenging to detach from their responsibilities, constantly pondering over tasks, even during supposed downtime.
Obsession with Details. Gold individuals’ focus on details, while beneficial, can sometimes escalate into an obsession, causing stress. They may find themselves engrossed in minutiae, spending excessive time perfecting tasks or plans. This obsession with details can lead to anxiety, especially when faced with time constraints or when their meticulousness is not reciprocated.
Pessimism and Negativity. While Golds themselves are often prone to bouts of pessimism and negativity, encountering others who are pessimistic or negative can be draining for Gold individuals who value a constructive, problem-solving approach. Pessimistic attitudes or negative outlooks can evoke stress, as it contradicts their belief in working diligently towards solutions. They may find themselves either attempting to counter the negativity with a positive outlook or feeling weighed down by the pessimistic atmosphere.

“When the storms of life come, if they come to me personally, to my family or to the world, I want to be strong enough to stand and be a strength to somebody else, be shelter for somebody else.”
Anne Graham Lotz

Green: The Logical Compass

Green, the astute navigators, gaze upon the storm with a calculative eye. Their approach consists of setting a specific time to address the whirlwinds of worry, like a seasoned captain reviewing his strategy. Finding solace in the soothing tunes of logic, perhaps with music that calms the turbulent thoughts swirling around.

Intellectual Stagnation. Greens are synonymous with intellectual growth and curiosity. They are constantly on a quest for knowledge, seeking to understand the intricacies of the world around them. When placed in environments that promote intellectual stagnation, their stress levels can escalate significantly. They may find the lack of intellectual stimulation suffocating, yearning for the freedom to explore, learn, and grow. For instance, a monotonous job lacking challenges can evoke feelings of frustration and anxiety. They might find solace in personal projects or external engagements that fuel their intellectual curiosity, but the absence of an intellectually stimulating environment can leave a lingering effect of dissatisfaction and stress.
Irrational Behavior. Greens are ardent admirers of logic and rational discourse. Encountering irrational behavior or decisions made on whims rather than factual analysis can be a source of frustration. They may find themselves embroiled in debates, striving to bring a logical perspective to irrational decisions. For example, witnessing a decision made on mere speculation rather than evidence in a professional setting can trigger stress. The constant battle against irrationality can be draining, leading to a sense of discontent and a yearning for a more rational, logic-driven environment.
Externally Imposed Goals. Green individuals value autonomy in setting their goals based on their interests and logical analysis. When goals are externally imposed without a logical basis, it can trigger stress. They might find it difficult to fully engage with or commit to these goals, feeling a disconnect between the imposed objectives and their own intellectual pursuits. The struggle to align with externally imposed goals while maintaining a sense of authenticity can be a source of ongoing stress, pushing them to seek a balance between external expectations and internal intellectual satisfaction. They may feel stifled, shackled by the constraints that prevent them from expressing their analytical and innovative abilities. For instance, a micromanaging supervisor or a rigid organizational structure can be sources of stress, driving them to seek avenues where their independence is respected and encouraged.
Emotional Outbursts. Emotional outbursts can be quite unsettling for Greens who value objective, fact-based discussions. They may find it challenging to navigate situations charged with emotional outbursts, preferring a calm, logical discourse. Encountering individuals who frequently resort to emotional outbursts can evoke discomfort and stress, disrupting the logical flow of discussions. They might find themselves withdrawing from such interactions or striving to steer the conversation back to a rational, objective domain.
Unsubstantial Conversations. Greens crave meaningful, insightful discussions that stimulate their intellect. Engaging in unsubstantial or superficial conversations can evoke a sense of boredom or frustration. They yearn for interactions that challenge their thinking and foster a deeper understanding. Encountering conversations lacking depth or substance, like trivial gossip or mundane small talk, can be a source of stress. They might find themselves disengaged, yearning for more stimulating intellectual engagements that satisfy their craving for depth and meaningful discourse.
Disregard for Facts. Greens have a high regard for facts, relying on them to form logical conclusions. When they encounter a blatant disregard for facts, it can be a source of stress. In discussions or decision-making scenarios, ignoring factual evidence can be frustrating for Greens. They may find themselves tirelessly advocating for a fact-based approach, correcting misinformation, and challenging unfounded claims, all of which can be stressful yet necessary endeavors to uphold a rational and truthful discourse.
Plagiarism and Dishonesty. Plagiarism and dishonesty are viewed with disdain by Green individuals. They value originality and intellectual integrity. Encountering plagiarism, whether in academic or professional settings, can evoke a strong sense of injustice and stress. They may find themselves compelled to address the dishonesty, advocating for ethical conduct and originality. The effort to combat plagiarism and uphold integrity can be a stressful yet vital endeavor for Green individuals, reflecting their commitment to intellectual honesty.
Poor Performance. Greens often have high standards for performance, valuing competence and excellence. Encountering poor performance, whether in themselves or others, can be a source of stress. They may find it disheartening to witness lack of effort or incompetence, striving to address the issues to elevate the level of performance. The journey towards rectifying poor performance can be stressful, filled with challenges and resistance, yet it reflects the Green individual’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
Vanity and Narcissism. Vanity and narcissism, often seen as a disregard for objective evaluation and an overemphasis on self, can be distressing for Greens. They value a balanced, rational appraisal of one’s abilities and contributions. Encountering individuals exhibiting vanity or narcissism can evoke frustration, as it contradicts the objective, fact-based evaluation cherished by Greens. They might find themselves challenging the narcissistic behavior or seeking to bring a more balanced, objective perspective to interactions, a quest that can be both stressful and necessary to uphold a culture of rationality and fairness.
Lack of Time. Time is a crucial resource for Green individuals, who often have a myriad of intellectual pursuits they wish to explore. A lack of time to delve into these interests can evoke stress. They might find themselves racing against the clock to satisfy their intellectual curiosity while meeting other life or work demands. The constant pressure to manage time effectively to accommodate their pursuits can be a challenging and stressful endeavor, driving them to seek efficient time management strategies to balance their intellectual explorations with other responsibilities.
Unjustified Criticism. Greens value constructive, fact-based feedback. Encountering unjustified criticism that lacks a logical basis can be a source of stress. They may find it frustrating to address criticism that doesn’t contribute to their growth or understanding. It might drive them to seek validation for their ideas through logical arguments, turning unjustified criticism into an opportunity for intellectual discourse, albeit a stressful one.
Inaccuracies. Accuracy is paramount for Green individuals. They value precise information and clear, accurate communication. Encountering inaccuracies, whether in data, information, or interpersonal communications, can evoke stress. They may find themselves compelled to correct inaccuracies, striving for a clear, precise understanding of issues. The journey to rectify inaccuracies and promote a culture of accuracy and clarity can be a stressful yet vital endeavor, reflecting their commitment to truth and precision.

“I am not afraid of storms for I am learning how to sail my ship.”
Louisa May Alcott

Orange: The Adventurous Mariners

Orange, the daring voyagers, meet stress with a sword of action. They dive into meaningful tasks, cutting through the waves of worry with a blade of purpose. A quick stroll on the deck, breathing in the fresh ocean air, could be their way of shaking off the shackles of stress.

Restrictions and Limitations. For Oranges, life is a playground filled with possibilities. They are naturally inclined towards exploring new horizons and pushing boundaries. When faced with restrictions or limitations, be it in personal or professional realms, it can evoke a sense of confinement and stress. The inability to express themselves freely or to explore uncharted territories can leave them feeling stifled. For instance, a rigid workplace environment that curtails creativity or an overly structured schedule that leaves no room for spontaneity can be stress-inducing. They yearn for environments where their freedom and individuality are celebrated, not constrained.
Lack of Action and Adventure. The Orange temperament is synonymous with action and adventure. They thrive on excitement, novel experiences, and the thrill of the unknown. A routine lacking in action or adventure can lead to a buildup of stress. The monotony of a predictable, uneventful lifestyle is contrary to their nature. They might find solace in seeking adventure during their personal time, but a prolonged lack of excitement can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and stress. Engaging in new hobbies, traveling to unfamiliar places, or simply breaking the routine can serve as outlets for their adventurous spirit.
Commitment Issues. Commitment, especially long-term or binding commitments, can evoke a sense of dread and stress in Orange individuals. They value their freedom and the ability to move with the flow of life. Being tied down to a commitment that restricts their flexibility can be anxiety-inducing. This stressor manifests in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional engagements. They might find themselves hesitating to enter into commitments, weighing the loss of freedom against the benefits. Negotiating flexible terms or finding middle ground that allows for a semblance of freedom can be ways to navigate this stressor.
Lack of Autonomy. Autonomy is crucial for Oranges. They value the ability to make their own choices and to navigate life on their own terms. Encountering situations or environments that curtail their autonomy can evoke stress. They may feel controlled or constrained, yearning for the freedom to act independently. A micromanaging boss, a controlling relationship, or any scenario where their autonomy is compromised can be sources of stress. They thrive in environments that trust and allow them to operate independently, respecting their ability to make decisions and to learn from their experiences. They just want to take the ball and run with it without interference their own teammates.
Deadlines and Time Frames. Orange individuals thrive in spontaneous, flexible environments. Deadlines and strict time frames can induce stress as they feel pressured to conform to a rigid schedule. The countdown towards a deadline might feel like a chokehold, restricting their natural flow of action. For instance, a project deadline at work that demands a structured, time-bound approach could leave them feeling stifled and stressed. They prefer a more flexible, adaptable approach to tasks, allowing them to explore and adapt as they progress rather than being bound by a ticking clock.
Non-negotiable Situations. Non-negotiable situations, where there’s no room for discussion or alteration, can be quite stressful for Orange individuals. They appreciate a level of flexibility and negotiation in dealings, which aligns with their adaptable nature. Encountering a situation where the terms are fixed and non-negotiable, like a strict company policy or a rigid contract, can evoke a feeling of helplessness and stress. They value environments where there’s room for dialogue and adjustment, allowing for a more harmonious interaction aligned with their adaptable nature.
Over-planning. Oranges value spontaneity and the freedom to adapt as situations unfold. Over-planning, where every detail is mapped out in advance, can evoke stress. They might find the rigidity of a heavily planned schedule stifling, craving the room to explore alternatives. For instance, an overly structured vacation itinerary that leaves no room for spontaneous exploration can be a source of stress. They thrive when there’s a balance between a general plan and the freedom to deviate, exploring the spontaneity that life offers.
Ignorance and Dismissal. Being ignored or dismissed can be disheartening and stressful for Orange individuals. They value recognition and engagement, and when their ideas or contributions are ignored or dismissed, it can evoke a sense of invisibility or devaluation. For instance, sharing a creative idea at a team meeting only to have it brushed aside can be a source of stress. They appreciate environments where their voice is heard, their contributions acknowledged, and where they can engage in meaningful interactions.
Impractical Ideas. Orange individuals are pragmatic and action oriented. They prefer ideas that have immediate, tangible benefits. When faced with impractical ideas or abstract concepts that lack a clear actionable path, it can induce stress. They might find discussions revolving around theoretical or impractical ideas frustrating, yearning for a more grounded, practical approach. For instance, a brainstorming session at work that delves into abstract concepts without a clear actionable plan can be stressful. They thrive in environments where ideas are geared towards actionable results, aligning with their pragmatic nature.
Record Keeping and Paperwork. Orange temperaments favor action and spontaneity over administrative chores. The meticulous attention to detail required in record-keeping and paperwork can be a source of stress. They might find such tasks tedious, time-consuming, and contrary to their preference for action-oriented tasks. For example, having to document every step of a project in detail could feel like a hindrance to their progress, evoking stress. They appreciate environments where administrative tasks are balanced with action-oriented tasks, allowing them to remain engaged and motivated.
Lack of Recognition. Recognition for their efforts and achievements is important for Orange individuals. They are motivated by acknowledgment and appreciation. A lack of recognition, especially in environments where they invest their energy and skills, can evoke stress. They may feel undervalued or overlooked, which can dampen their enthusiasm and motivation. For instance, consistently contributing to team projects without acknowledgment can lead to a buildup of stress. They thrive in environments where their contributions are recognized and celebrated, fostering a sense of value and motivation.
Negative Dispositions. Oranges are generally positive and energetic. Encountering negative dispositions, whether it’s pessimism, constant criticism, or a general negative outlook, can be draining and stressful. They might find it challenging to maintain their positive demeanor in a persistently negative environment. For instance, a colleague who constantly focuses on the negatives rather than finding solutions can be a source of stress. They thrive in positive, solution-oriented environments that resonate with their optimistic, can-do attitude, fostering a harmonious, motivating atmosphere.

“Life can give you strength. Strength can come from facing the storms of life, from knowing loss, feeling sadness and heartache, from falling into the depths of grief. You must stand up in the storm. You must face the wind and the cold and the darkness. When the storm blows hard you must stand firm, for it is not trying to knock you down, it is really trying to teach you to be strong.”
Joseph M. Marshall III

Anchoring in Awareness

As we anchor at the end of our colorful voyage through the storm of stress, it’s clear that the turbulent waters of life churn differently for each temperament. The hues of Blue, Gold, Green, and Orange have painted a vivid picture of how our inherent traits navigate the tempest. The sea of life may be vast and unpredictable, yet, understanding our unique stressors and embracing the essence of who we are can empower us to sail through even the fieriest storms with resilience. Reflect on your color, acknowledge its strengths and vulnerabilities, and let this newfound awareness be your guiding star amidst the whirlwinds of daily life.

“Be thou the rainbow in the storms of life. The evening beam that smiles the clouds away, and tints tomorrow with prophetic ray.”
Lord Byron