People with strong Analytical talents challenge others to “Prove it.” They take a critical approach to what others might quickly accept as truth. They search for the reasons why things are the way they are. They want to understand how certain patterns affect one another. How do they combine? What is the outcome? Does this outcome fit with the theory offered or the situation at hand? These are their questions. Others see them as logical and rigorous. Some may feel that they are negative or unnecessarily critical when they are simply trying to understand something. They bring an objective and dispassionate examination that enables them to find the root causes and effects, and then develop clear thoughts based on facts.

People with strong Deliberative talents are careful and vigilant. Everything may seem in order, but beneath the surface they sense many risks. Rather than avoiding these hazards, they draw each one out into the open. Then each risk can be identified, assessed, and ultimately reduced. Thus, those with strong Deliberative talents bring a thorough and conscientious approach to making decisions. They take care to consider options, thinking through the pros and cons of each alternative. To them, making the correct choice is more important than the time it takes to do so. They see life as something of a minefield. Others can run through it recklessly if they so choose, but they take a different approach. They identify the dangers, weigh their relative effect, and then place their feet deliberately. They walk with care.

People with strong Learner talents constantly strive to learn and improve. The process of learning is as important to them as the knowledge they gain. Learners are energized by the steady and deliberate journey from ignorance to competence. They are excited by the thrill of learning new facts, beginning a new subject, and mastering an important skill. Learning builds their confidence. Having Learner as a dominant theme does not necessarily motivate someone to become a subject matter expert or strive for the respect that accompanies earning a professional or academic credential. The outcome of learning is less significant than “getting there.”

People with strong Harmony talents want peace and try to bring others together. In their view, little can be gained from conflict and friction, so they seek to hold these to a minimum. Those with strong Harmony see what people have in common, even during conflict. They try to steer others away from confrontation and toward reconciliation. In fact, harmony is one of their guiding values. They seek to help individuals, families, and organizations work together. When others argue, they steer clear of the debate, preferring to talk about practical, down-to-earth matters on which everyone can agree.

Perspective and background are important for people with strong Context talents. They value the retrospective viewpoint because they believe that is where the answers lie. They look back to understand the present. From the past, they can discern blueprints for direction. And, counterintuitively, they become wiser about the future because they can see its seeds sown in the past. People with strong Context may feel disoriented when they can’t see patterns stemming from prior events. Others may become impatient with them as they strive to understand the history of a given situation. But, in the end, this historical context gives them confidence in their decisions.