If You Understand The Big 5 Personality Traits, You’ll Learn You Can Change Your Personality

A Quick Review of O.C.E.A.N.

There have been many personality models developed over history.

According to research starting with Fisk then expanded by scientists Goldberg, Norman, and Smith, they developed the most commonly accepted model we use today for personality.

“The Big Five,” or you may know them as O.C.E.A.N.

Even though we are getting away from personalities becoming a permanent part of who we are as human beings, it is interesting to know where you fall in the O.C.E.A.N.

For more information on personality not being permanent check out Dr. Ben Hardy’s new book.

Here is a brief breakdown of O.C.E.A.N.

Openness. This isn’t the willingness to share your deepest, darkest secrets. Openness in this context is a measure of how open you are to fresh experiences and ideas.

People high in this trait are interested in fresh ideas and perspectives; they don’t mind change and even welcome it.

They also value art and music.

Extroversion. On one end of this scale are the extroverts, and on the other are the introverts (which are both overrated terms, I believe people are a mixture of both).

Most of us lie somewhere in between.

Think of introverts as those who gain energy while spending time alone. They don’t want to be around many people because it tires them.

-Extroverts are just the opposite. Being alone drains their energy, and they are recharged by spending time with others. Extroverts are commonly described as, socially confident, talkative, energetic, and assertive.

-Introverts are frequently introspective, reserved, and quiet. They are often, but not always, lacking in social confidence.

Agreeableness. Agreeable people are polite, sensitive, cheerful, patient, and enjoyable to be around.

However, this does not mean they agree with everything.

They are likable and like others. Those low in agreeableness are often described as blunt, sarcastic, and abrasive.

Conscientiousness. If you’re high in conscientiousness, you value order, achievement, self-discipline, and like to take care of business.

You are a planner, sounds like myself.

You are not interested in fresh experiences or novel stimulation. You are neat, organized, and like to work from a schedule.

This trait is strongly correlated with success. If you know someone that doesn’t seem all that smart or talented, but they are still successful, they are high in conscientiousness.

Those very low in conscientiousness can be chronic procrastinators, and disorganized. If your life always seems out of control, it’s likely that you are low in conscientiousness.

Neuroticism. Those that rate high in neuroticism are unstable, seek short-term enjoyment, impulsive, and negative. They can be worrisome and irritating be around.

Remember, don’t get stuck in these traits. A person can change anytime they want. If you recognize any behaviors in the above mentioned, you can CHANGE.

For example, if your life is a disaster, and you realize that you are low in conscientiousness, you could start taking control of your day by creating a schedule each evening. This has been found to be very effective in raising your level of conscientiousness.

Those low in agreeableness can make it a point to do something nice for someone each day.

If you’re high in neuroticism, learning to meditate or reading a book on anxiety reduction can make a big change in your life.

Just like that, a change is made.

There are several Big 5 tests available online for free or for a fee.

It is interesting to know where you fit in O.C.E.A.N., and use the results to change a behavior and become a better person.

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