

This article is an excerpt from the Shortform book guide to "Surrounded by Idiots" by Thomas Erikson. Shortform has the world's best summaries and analyses of books you should be reading.
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In what ways do Red, Yellow, Green, and Blue personalities act differently? How can understanding the body language of each type help prevent misunderstandings?
Thomas Erikson writes in Surrounded by Idiots, the 4 types of personalities each use body language differently. A Red might lean forward while speaking to you, while a Blue might stand back and cross their arms. If you know what to expect from a person, then you won’t misinterpret their feelings.
Here’s a breakdown of the body language of each of the 4 personality types.
Body Language of the 4 Colors
In Surrounded by Idiots, the 4 types of personalities each behave differently. By recognizing each color type’s physical patterns, you should experience greater ease in communication and fewer misunderstandings.
Red Personality Type’s Body Language
According to Erikson, everything about a Red personality’s body language is direct and aggressive, especially if they’re trying to make a point (which happens often). They shake your hand firmly, look into your eyes, lean forward when speaking, and use sharp hand gestures. He says Red types often wear serious, focused facial expressions unless actively engaged in a fun activity. They tend to keep others at arm’s distance and are not big on hugging (even in social situations).
(Shortform note: Erikson says that people with dominant personalities exhibit specific body language characteristics, but do some people weaponize body language with an intent to dominate? Psychology Today describes how some men use body language to control others (especially women). Lingering and intense eye contact, invasion of personal space, and non-consensual touching (such as shushing someone by touching their lips), are all warning signs that someone is attempting to intimidate you.)
Yellow Personality Type’s Body Language
Erikson says that while Yellow personalities are similar to Red types in many ways, they have different body language styles. Where Red-dominant people are physically standoffish, he says Yellow personalities have little to no sense of personal space. They have no problem sitting close to another person, they enjoy hugging, and they touch people frequently. He says this might look like a knowing hand on the shoulder or a joking slap on the back. They smile without obvious reason and have a relaxed, comfortable posture.
(Shortform note: If this is your body language style, it’s helpful to know when another person is feeling uncomfortable by your proximity. If a person feels that their personal space is being invaded, they might back up, clutch a drink or bag against their chest, or crane their neck backward. If you are in an unfamiliar culture, observe those around you to see what is considered “normal” spacing for where you are.)
Green Personality Type’s Body Language
Erikson says a Green-dominant person’s body language is similar to Yellow type’s, but on a much more subtle level. Green personalities maintain friendly eye contact, a gentle smile, and aren’t averse to hugging. Green types are OK with touching if they know you well, but they prefer personal space when it comes to strangers and acquaintances. Erikson says Green personalities tend to lean backward when sitting and generally maintain a relaxed posture. They don’t draw attention to themselves with hand movements, preferring instead to blend in with the crowd.

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