Nothing escapes the notice of men and women who have a vigilant personality style. These individuals posses an exceptional awareness of their environment. Call them Survivors. Their sensory antennae, continuously scanning the people and situations around them, alert them immediately to what is awry, out of place, dissonant or dangerous, especially in their dealings with other people. Vigilant types have a special kind of hearing. They are immediately aware of the mixed messages, hidden motivations, the evasions and the subtlest distortions of the truth that elude or delude less gifted observers. With such focus, vigilant individuals naturally assume the roles of social critic, watchdog and crusader in their private or our public domain, ready to spring upon the improprieties--especially the abuses of power--that poison human affairs. The following six traits and behaviors are clues to the presence of the vigilant "survivor" style. - Autonomy. Vigilant individuals posses a resilient independence. They keep their own counsel, they require no outside reassurance or advice, they make decisions easily and they take care of themselves.
- Caution. They are careful in their dealings with others, preferring to size up a person before entering a relationship.
- Perceptiveness. They are good listeners, with an ear for subtlety, tone and multiple levels of communication.
- Self-defense. Individuals with vigilant style are feisty and do not hesitate to stand up for themselves, especially when they are under attack.
- Alertness to criticism. They take criticism very seriously, without becoming intimidated.
- Fidelity. They place a high premium on fidelity and loyalty. They work hard to earn it and they never take it for granted.
Tips for dealing with the vigilant (survivor) person in your life: - Even though they appear confident, they need your respect. Express, show and otherwise prove it often.
- If you would like to get to know the vigilant person, do not hesitate to pursue this person. Even though it may be slow, persist.
- Avoid competition and power struggles, the vigilant person needs to feel in control.
- Take the lead socially. The vigilant person in your life will appreciate your greater ease in getting to know people and making plans with them
- Don't tease. Vigilant people often have a good sense of humor but not about themselves.
- If the vigilant person in your life is unjustifiably jealous or worried about your loyalty, don't be flippant or dismiss these concerns as silly. Don't take their concerns lightly.
- Accept that if you slight this person, unintentionally or otherwise, he or she will have a long memory.
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