*note* the bulk of this article is re-posted from a series I highlighted back in January of 2010...

“Know thyself.”

Plato

I'm naturally drawn to periods of introspection and self examination. I'm so fascinated about the characteristics, both internal and external, that work together to create the very essence of who we are. For instance, birth order can influence a lot about you, so does your gender, childhood upbringing, family values as well as the socio economic environment in which you live.

Have you ever studied about the temperaments?

Apparently, Temperament is the oldest theory of human behavior. It was defined by Hippocrates. He was the first to identify and name the 4 types that have lived on for 23 centuries! A persons temperament (a unique combination of 2 of the 4 types) together with your physical, mental and emotional characteristics is what makes you uniquely you.

"Nothing has a more powerful influence on human behavior than temperament....Your unique combination of temperaments determines your actions, reactions, prejudices, and often your likes and dislikes."

"No examination of human beings is complete unless temperament is considered, for it has more influence on their behavior than any other one factor in life. Just as our physical, mental and emotional makeup is based on the arrangement of genes at the time of conception, so is our temperament. It is well known that the combination of those genes produces the color of your eyes and hair, the shape of your skull and face, your height and general body shape, your IQ, and your emotional expression and responses. What is not so well known is that those same genes produce your temperament. They, in turn, have a significant influence on the way you use your physical, emotional, and mental traits."

(The above quotes are from the book The Spirit-Controlled Woman)

Understanding your individual temperament will help in your role as a Family Manager so you are able to identify potential challenges you may have, and seek to build on your strengths as well!

Understanding if you are an Introvert or Extrovert is a great help as well because you will know better how you build (and are drained) of the much needed energy you need for all the task and relational oriented engagements you encounter each and every day within your home.

I adapted a great example of this observation from the book, Raising Your Spirited Child

Introverts prefer to interact with the world on the inside by reflecting on their thoughts and ideas before sharing them with others on the outside. They need rest from outside activities, even ones they enjoy. If they get it, they'll interact well with others and be more productive and engaging. If they don't get it, they'll become drained and their attitudes and production level will likely deteriorate.
They are worn out by people. After being around people for a long periods of time, they need a break, a chance to energize by having space and quiet.

Extroverts draw their energy from others. They prefer to engage the world around them outside their bodies by talking with people, sharing ideas and experiences. Often it's hard for them to slow down, since they seek excitement and activity. If extroverts don't have an opportunity to talk and interact socially, they get crabby and more demanding because they are running out of steam. If they are allowed to recharge by being (or interacting) with other people, they are fine. They need to share ideas while they are still fresh in their mind.