The Sanguine Temperament
Understanding the Sanguine Temperament
Hippocrates identified the Sanguine by the color red, or “blood,” which fits them perfectly. The Sanguine temperament in Inclusion (social interaction, surface relationships, and intellectual energies) is very social and thrives on being with people.
Characteristics of Sanguines
Social Interaction
Sanguines are the easiest to be around socially, bringing life and energy into a room by their presence. Their cheerfulness and humor brighten everyone’s life. They are optimistic and believe life should be lived to the fullest. Inactivity causes them stress as they prefer a fast-paced lifestyle. Sanguines are the most impulsive of all temperaments.
Communication
Sanguines excel in communication-oriented tasks but struggle with discipline and organization. While they are outgoing, enthusiastic, warm, and compassionate, they can also be rude and uncaring. They tend not to be faithful or loyal friends, avoiding commitments to keep life fun. Sanguines often live in the moment, rarely learning from past mistakes, and are prone to exaggerate their successes while ignoring their failures.
Strengths of the Sanguine
Inclusion (Mind)
- Friendly and outgoing
- Inspiring to others
- Relationship-oriented
- Enthusiastic and warm
- Optimistic, able to see the bright side of life
- Genuinely like people and enjoy social interactions
Control (Will)
- Solicitous and caring, almost to the point of servitude
- Charming and gracious
- Capable of taking on responsibilities and making decisions well
Affection (Emotion)
- Able to express and receive large amounts of love and affection
- Warm, easy to get to know, and emotionally open
Weaknesses of the Sanguine
Inclusion (Mind)
- Talkative and often the center of conversation
- Apt to adopt the behavior and morals of those around them
- Impulsive and undisciplined
- Prone to exaggeration
- Can ignore responsibilities to socialize
Control (Will)
- Prone to narcissism and self-indulgence
- Lacking persistence and weak-willed
- Irresponsible and self-indulgent during dependent mode
Affection (Emotion)
- Easily devastated if not constantly reassured of love and appreciation
- Very demanding of others for love and affection
- Plagued by jealousy when love and attention are given to others
Managing the Sanguine Temperament
The Sanguine’s impulsiveness and need for constant social interaction can lead to challenges if not managed properly. Learning to balance their strengths and weaknesses, and seeking God’s guidance, can help them lead a stable and productive life.
Spiritual Guidance for Sanguines
Viewing life through spiritual lenses allows Sanguines to manage their swings and impulses. Trusting in God’s plan and submitting to His authority can help them face challenges without fear of failure or loss of control. The Bible provides guidance and hope for Sanguines:
- “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
- “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6)
- “My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.” (Proverbs 23:26)
- “Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” (Luke 9:24)
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
- “He must increase; I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
By submitting to God, Sanguines can harness their temperament strengths for His glory, leading a fulfilling and joyful life.