Strategy 7
Enthusiastic Optimist
- Desire
- Contentment and freedom of choice
- Fear
- Deprivation and pain there's no escaping
Why People Confuse Them
Both strategies are strong personalities who go after what they want. They like intensity and pleasure, hate being restricted, and can break the rules when it suits them. Both push away softer, vulnerable feelings.
What the Difference Is
A Seven wants variety. They're drawn to as many experiences and possibilities as possible, live on ideas and plans, and love the phase when things are being dreamed up most of all. Finishing things and routine are a struggle. They don't care much for power, because maintaining it takes work and would tie them down. They handle resistance with charm and diplomacy and like to be friends with their bosses.
An Eight wants intensity and control. They decide on instinct, get straight to the point, and push projects through to the end. For them, power means independence and influence. They show anger openly, don't avoid unpleasant things, and tend to see them in black and white. They see themselves as a realist, whereas a Seven sees themselves as an optimist.
Three Questions That Settle It
Answer honestly, based on how things usually are, not how you'd like them to be.
- What do you enjoy most about work?
7More likely a Seven if you enjoy brainstorming and new ideas most, and the execution less.
8More likely an Eight if you enjoy moving things forward and seeing them through most.
- How do you deal with someone trying to restrict you?
7More likely a Seven if you handle it with charm or humor, or find another option.
8More likely an Eight if you stand up to them openly.
- How do you see problems?
7More likely a Seven if you look for something good in them and move on quickly.
8More likely an Eight if you name them in full and deal with them right away.
Not sure? The test will tell you in 10 minutes. What's my strategy? →
How to Spot a Seven →How to Spot an Eight →How They Work Together in a Relationship →