Surrounded by idiots by Thomas Erikson: The four types of human behaviour

Ever felt like you’re surrounded by people who just don’t get it?

Well, you’re not alone.

After a disastrous meeting with a highly successful entrepreneur, who was genuinely convinced he was 'surrounded by idiots', communication expert and bestselling author, Thomas Erikson dedicated himself to understanding how people function and why we often struggle to connect with certain types of people.

Originally published in Swedish as Omgiven Av Idioter, Surrounded by Idiots has become a global phenomenon, selling over 1.5 million copies worldwide. Erikson introduces a revolutionary yet simple method for understanding human behavior by categorizing personalities into four colors: Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow.

This framework helps readers decode the behavior of those around them, whether at work or in everyday life, and offers actionable strategies to communicate more effectively.

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Big ideas from the book (in QnA format)

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Q) How do the four temperaments impact communication styles?

Here's a look at how the four temperaments described in the book impact communication styles:

• Red Temperament (Dominance):

  • Individuals with a Red temperament are described as direct, assertive, and action-oriented.

  • Their communication style is typically straightforward, concise, and focused on results. They value efficiency and may become impatient with lengthy explanations or small talk.

  • They tend to be strong-willed and may come across as aggressive or demanding.

  • Reds may interrupt others, raise their voices, and use controlling gestures to emphasize their points.

• Yellow Temperament (Inspiration):

  • Individuals with a Yellow temperament are characterized as enthusiastic, optimistic, and sociable.

  • Their communication style is typically engaging, expressive, and focused on building relationships. They are skilled storytellers and often use humor and colorful language.