If humans were computers, our dominant traits would be the operating system that is embedded and hard-coded in our minds. These deeply ingrained behaviors run on autopilot, driving our every action without conscious thought. Like breathing or blinking, we can actively choose to control our actions with enough concentration. However, most of the time, our recurring behaviors seem to be driven by our subconscious, functioning effortlessly and instinctively.

Instinct is a marvelous thing. It can
neither be explained nor ignored.

Agatha Christie

Dominant traits are often mistaken as strengths in most other personality systems. But here in Personality Ninja, we hold a different view. To us, traits are just traits, shaped by the wiring of our cognitive functions. Whether a trait is good or bad largely depends on the way it is used. As such, these traits can either be the source of one's greatest strengths, or the cause of their biggest downfall.

Naturally, we will hone our dominant traits, refining them into our super strengths. However, if we are not careful, there is a chance that we may push our dominant traits into overdrive, manifesting them in very unhealthy ways. In the end, our dominant traits are our natural tendencies and nothing more. The key to harnessing them effectively lies in knowing when, where, and how to use them.

Creating order amidst chaos, Chiefs are both the architects and executors of change. After all, innovation is often met with heavy resistance; and Chiefs have exactly what it takes to see those visions come true. They are able to direct others instinctively and deploy resources strategically, all while sticking to the bigger picture. Effective and insightful, Chiefs go beyond expectations, resulting in long-lasting impact for those around them in the many decades to come.

However, Chiefs may be too direct at times when pushing for change. While some may appreciate their no-nonsense approach, others might perceive it to be rude and insensitive. If left unchecked, the people around them will quickly grow irritated by their inconsiderate behavior. As a result, when Chiefs push hard for productivity and success, their unreserved approach may unintentionally push others away as well.

At their most extreme, Chiefs might antagonize those who do not meet their unrealistic expectations. They may be quick to turn against individuals whom they regard as liabilities, especially when they are running out of patience. Therefore, anyone working with such Chiefs will quickly feel worn out by the immense stress set upon them. If this behavior persists, Chiefs might find themselves more effective at creating enemies than they are at creating change.

When disaster strikes, Chiefs will instinctively step in as natural problem-solvers. They will know exactly how to unravel a complex problem and tackle it at its core. As such, people look to them for effective solutions in times of need. But the potential of Chiefs exceeds that. Their logical and innovative approach allows them to address fundamental problems at a bigger scale, putting Chiefs at the forefront of progress and reform wherever they may be.

While their insightful way of problem-solving may be helpful, it is not entirely faultless. Neglecting the importance of facts, Chiefs may jump the gun when identifying the root of the problem. They might not be aware that their decision-making insights may truly be a subjective experience, dependent on their biases. Without a concrete backing of facts, Chiefs might distill the wrong ideas, suggesting bad solutions that only makes things worse.

The problem is exacerbated when Chiefs selectively support arguments that align with their personal assumptions and biases. They might turn a blind eye to the contradictions between their cherry-picked reasons, or attempt to rationalize these inconsistencies with flawed logic. Such Chiefs are willfully ignorant, and they prioritize external validation over logical consistency. Unfortunately, when their judgments are torn apart under thorough scrutiny, their reputation will surely be tarnished.

Residing in the minds of Chiefs are visions of innovative change. Of course, achieving these ambitions are by no means an easy feat as it requires a collective and concerted effort. Chiefs know this well. As such, they are more than willing to work day and night with others to make the impossible possible. When everyone shares the same focus, Chiefs will waste no time in bringing about transformative change and accomplishments in their communities.

That said, ambition can sometimes bring forth the demise of Chiefs. They might become obsessed with their work, often viewing the fruits of their labor as a measure of their self-worth. When so much is at stake, Chiefs may be reluctant to put on the brakes, fearing that they are not giving their all to reach what they have set out for. Sadly, this unhealthy workaholism comes at the expense of their own well-being. In some cases, their relationships will also suffer collateral damage.

If Chiefs are not careful enough, their obsession may lead them down a path of Machiavellianism. In a desperate pursuit of success, some might resort to unethical practices to secure results. Not only does this corrupt their souls from deep within, it may also cause them to exploit and harm others in the process. When achievements no longer matter to them, these Chiefs might look back and realize that they have crossed the line one too many times, filling them with intense regret.

Chiefs have no trouble conveying their thoughts to others. As effective communicators, they have a talent for distilling even the most complex topics into simple and logical explanations. By identifying and focusing on a few essential concepts, they are able to deliver their opinions in a concise yet coherent narrative. Hence, Chiefs are always able to get a clear message across by saying more with less.

However, despite their ability to articulate their thoughts, Chiefs may struggle to persuade others to support their ideas. This is because they tend to express their opinions bluntly without much consideration for the listener’s feelings. Perhaps Chiefs are just trying to be honest. But instead of inspiring confidence, they come off as condescending and rude. Even if everyone hears what these Chiefs have to say, without tact, nobody will truly listen to them.

The lack of tact becomes even more problematic if Chiefs also lack humility. Thinking that they always know what is best, some Chiefs might offer unsolicited advice in a patronizing manner, causing people to see them as pesky meddlers. However, the real danger of overconfidence lies in Chiefs dismissing the possibility of being wrong. When they fail to exercise caution, grave injustice might befall someone who trusted in the faulty advice of negligent Chiefs.

To wrap it up, dominant traits are neither our strengths nor are they our weaknesses. They are simply traits we tend to exhibit naturally in our daily lives without much realization.

The biggest reminder here is this: a trait is a trait. It is a unique characteristic of an archetype, each carrying its own pros and cons. With that understanding, let us now venture into the next set of traits that we do more consciously—our supportive traits.

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Supportive Traits [Chief]