Below are eight specific strategies to enhance relationships with Orange people. All eight ideas were generated after interviewing thousands of people who possess an Orange (SP) temperament.
1. Recognize their talents
Oranges as a group tend to be more talented and skillful than other personality types. Perhaps this is because they enjoy doing a particular activity so much that they master it by sheer repetition. Whatever the reason, it’s important to recognize their expertise. More so than other colors, Oranges need immediate recognition for their performances. They rely on those around them to validate how they feel. It’s one of their primary sources of self-esteem. If they don’t receive this external approval, they’ll try other ways or other sources to get what they need–which may not be a good thing.
2. Be optimistic and friendly
This is usually simple to do because it’s almost impossible to be pessimistic or depressed around an Orange. Most of them have an effervescent personality that makes you feel exhilarated just by being around them. So don’t even try to talk about negative things. Dwell on positive, light-hearted, and encouraging things. Don’t be dreary; don’t be gloomy. Much can be learned from adopting the Orange’s positive perspective on life.
3. Don’t tie them down
Those who have tried to force an Orange into a tightly controlled environment know the futility of such an action. An Orange can’t be contained any more than the wind can be bottled-up. However, if you’re in a situation where you’re leading an Orange or rearing an Orange child, help him set his own limits and teach him the ramifications of exceeding them. Explain how the consequences of breaking the rules will result in the loss of personal freedom. Once he understands, give him the room to make his own choices and govern himself.
4. Appreciate their humor
Oranges have a remarkable sense of humor. Many of them are natural entertainers and are ready to perform at a moment’s notice. Some of the world’s greatest comedians are Orange or Orange-Green. Take advantage of the Orange’s unique outlook on life. They give many people pleasure and enjoyment. Don’t be too quick to dismiss their behaviors as “childish” and “trivial.” Enjoy their playful dispositions.
5. Be competitive and energetic
Many Oranges seem to have a competitive nature. They, like the Golds, often battle other people to become “king of the hill.” However, unlike the Golds, they aren’t motivated by the need to dominate or reign. They just want to play the game with as much gusto as it takes. If they happen to win because of their performance, that’s even better. They play because they enjoy playing. They don’t take themselves or the game too seriously. So when you play with an Orange, expect to be seriously challenged, but don’t make a big deal out of winning or losing; try to be a good sport.
6. Value their need for excitement
Oranges are active people. Like most people, they prefer to spend their time doing fun and entertaining things. But for them, fun and entertaining things require lots of action, adventure, thrills, and physical pleasures. So, if you want to spend time with an Orange, be prepared to jump into a lifestyle that’s packed with activity and demands lots of energy.
Because of their energetic approach to life, Oranges often get more things accomplished faster than most people. They agree with the saying, “When I work, I work hard. When I play, I play hard.” Don’t get in their way when they’re working. Don’t bog them down with a lot of detailed planning or impose a structure that’s too confining. Then, as soon as they complete the job, make sure they’re immediately rewarded for their performance.
Historically, American culture has been dominated by Gold values, attitudes, and behaviors. So it’s easy to criticize Oranges for their carefree and fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants lifestyle–the exact opposite of the Gold lifestyle. But they’re not strangers to that kind of criticism. They’ve heard it most of their lives, and it hasn’t been helpful; in fact, it has probably driven a deeper wedge between the Orange and Gold temperaments. So rather than condemning Orange lifestyles, learn to appreciate their strengths and tolerate their differences. Of course, the same can be said of all personality types.
7. Expect the unexpected
If you’re going to form a relationship with an Orange, be prepared for the unexpected. Oranges are not predictable except in their unpredictability. As long as you don’t feel too uncomfortable with the situation, consider going along with what the Orange wants to do. They like doing things without forethought or planning. They live on their impulses.
Oranges are naturally generous and lavish givers, regardless of whether or not they have something to give. If they have the resources, they will host the most extravagant dinners, throw the wildest parties, and give the largest presents. If they don’t have the resources, they will still give you half of what they have, even if they’re down to their last loaf of bread. Compliment their generous natures. Admire their desire to share what they have. But don’t take advantage of it or rely on it–Oranges are also whimsical, and can change their minds in a flash.
8. Get involved and take risks
Because Oranges seek variety and want to experience what the world has to offer, they constantly seek new adventures and new thrills. They crave adventure. They live for danger. They don’t mind putting their lives on the line. They want to test their skills and prove their abilities.
These attitudes can be extremely distressing to Gold, Blue, and Green individuals. If you talk about rules and regulations or harp on consequences, the Orange will usually ignore you. The last thing Oranges want is a wet blanket dampening their fun. Besides, more likely than not, they already know the consequences. However, if you’re in a supervisory role, and the Oranges want to go off and do something legal but dangerous, you can do several things.
First, help them practice their skills in a safe setting until they can demonstrate competence. Second, try to accompany them as an active participant. Third, quietly make safety precautions and design emergency plans to satisfy your own needs. Nevertheless, be aware that if an emergency actually occurs, chances are the Oranges will end up rescuing you.