Laying it on the Line

personality type and risk taking

by Shawn Bakker

Taking risks is easy for some people and incredibly difficult for others. Some of us try to avoid risk as much as possible – at times to our detriment. Others embrace risk and take them frequently – to their detriment as well. It depends a lot on their tolerance for uncertainty – this can be examined through personality preferences.

Knowing your preference for risk can help in evaluating changes and how you go about making them. Might you be too pessimistic towards changes that require taking a risk? Or are you too optimistic? You might be right or wrong, but what is important is to consider how you can evaluate risks more effectively and make better decisions. Taking too many risks has its disadvantages, but never taking risks results in missed opportunities. The following personality type groupings provide some information about how an individual will approach and evaluate risk.

NP’s – This type combination is the most willing of all to take risks. These individuals typically jump into new possibilities and are very willing to move in completely different directions, especially when hearing or coming up with new ideas. They also adapt quickly to changing circumstances since it gives them something new to explore.

SP’s – These individuals will take immediate risks and enjoy them if the situation demands it. However, long-term security and a stable foundation, such as keeping a home and working with familiar people, are important.

NJ’s – Intuitive-Judgers take a mixed view of risks. They are willing to take a long-term risk if it fits with their vision of the future and is a high priority. However, if this vision is not clear, they are not likely to act. Action will only be initiated after careful analysis and preparation.

SJ’s – These individuals are the least willing of all the type combinations to take risks. Since they enjoy having orderly and decided lives, the ambiguity inherent in risks makes them uncomfortable. Wanting to stick with what works, they usually only take moderate risks after long periods of thought and preparation, and when their chance of success is almost guaranteed.