Well, a week or two seems to have shot by in no time at all. It is so easy to get out of the habit of blogging - I must be sure not to let it lapse! Although, after saying that I am going to blog and run.
So, things to catch up on the next time I am here...
Robin (don't get too excited, not much to say!)
Y's dad, who has just been sectioned with Scizophrenia!
Night out Friday - again nothing too fabulous!
Research assignment due, and stress building!
Birthday plans!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Sneaky
I am at Uni - theoretically studying for seminar this afternoon. Surreptitiously doing no such thing.
Am very bored!
Am very bored!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The quest continues - pt 5
So, finally there, the last section of all - extraversion (outgoing or reserved)...
When it comes to Extraversion you are:
SOMETIMES OUTGOING, SOMETIMES RESERVED
Words that describe you:
•Moderate
•Amiable
•Laid-back
•Temperate
•Relaxed
•Poised
•Civil
•Uncommitted
•Pleasant
A general description of how you interact with others:
Lucky you! You enjoy your own company as much as you enjoy the company of others. You are a great conversationalist and thrive in the wonderful kinds of connections you know how to have with your family and friends. You also equally enjoy your own company, whether sitting in a favourite chair with your book and soft music playing or meandering in the woods by yourself. You like coming home to your family or your roommate; but if no one is home, you find quiet, solitary time to be just as pleasurable. What a great combination to enjoy being outgoing and to be just as comfortable being reserved. Lucky you!!
Because you are so amiable and relaxed, you are comfortable with almost any group of family or friends. Whether they are pumped up and lively or calm and subdued, you remain at ease. If someone needs to take over the conversation, you are comfortable taking the lead; you can also lay back and let someone else be in charge. If the conversation gets rowdy, your moderate demeanour will often draw it down to a more temperate level. If someone in the group loses their cool, you will most likely maintain your poise, and if they get nasty you know how to keep a civil tongue.
You may find yourself out of balance on occasion. If you're alone too much, you may need to get in touch with someone. If you spend too much time with your family and friends, you may need to sneak off for a day by yourself, to putter and read and clear your head of the noise of too much conversation. When you're at your best, you live with a rhythm of time with others, time alone, time with others, time alone It's a satisfying, comfortable balance. Lucky you!
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
You may occasionally run into problems with other people. Since not everyone is as balanced as you are, close friends and family may get frustrated with you, or you with them. They may be more sociable and outgoing, and find you too laid-back and relaxed. They want conversations to be lively and passionate while you keep things amiable and civil. Or others may be more quiet and reserved than you, and when you're in one of your more animated moments they may wish you would back off. You may be ready to put more energy into a conversation than they are comfortable with.
And your balance may be a problem. Other people may be consistently more sociable or more reserved than you, and find you to hard to read, some may even say you ride the fence. Others may find themselves envious of your ability to be outgoing at times, and at other times comfortably reserved. If you pay attention to pick up these cues you will be in a better position to know how you want to interact with such folks.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Most people will truly appreciate your flexibility in social situations. They will like you for your amiable warmth and your willingness to engage, and for your ability to sit back and let others take the lead or the spotlight. They will appreciate ways in which you temper what could become intemperate moments; by remaining poised and relaxed when others; temperatures are rising, you keep things civil and sane.
You are as good at listening and following as you are at talking and leading, and people will often appreciate your ability to adapt to the situation. Because you are sometimes outgoing and sometimes reserved, you will make most people comfortable in your presence, and they will truly enjoy your company.
Interesting! I was expecting this one to be the most clear cut, and yet, it surprised me. I'm not too sure I agree with it in it's entirety, though I think I have calmed down in the last few years, and undoubtedly enjoy my own company at times. That said, I don't believe I'm as good at listening as at talking, or that I will calm the proceedings. Perhaps I will dwell a little more on this and get back to you!
When it comes to Extraversion you are:
SOMETIMES OUTGOING, SOMETIMES RESERVED
Words that describe you:
•Moderate
•Amiable
•Laid-back
•Temperate
•Relaxed
•Poised
•Civil
•Uncommitted
•Pleasant
A general description of how you interact with others:
Lucky you! You enjoy your own company as much as you enjoy the company of others. You are a great conversationalist and thrive in the wonderful kinds of connections you know how to have with your family and friends. You also equally enjoy your own company, whether sitting in a favourite chair with your book and soft music playing or meandering in the woods by yourself. You like coming home to your family or your roommate; but if no one is home, you find quiet, solitary time to be just as pleasurable. What a great combination to enjoy being outgoing and to be just as comfortable being reserved. Lucky you!!
Because you are so amiable and relaxed, you are comfortable with almost any group of family or friends. Whether they are pumped up and lively or calm and subdued, you remain at ease. If someone needs to take over the conversation, you are comfortable taking the lead; you can also lay back and let someone else be in charge. If the conversation gets rowdy, your moderate demeanour will often draw it down to a more temperate level. If someone in the group loses their cool, you will most likely maintain your poise, and if they get nasty you know how to keep a civil tongue.
You may find yourself out of balance on occasion. If you're alone too much, you may need to get in touch with someone. If you spend too much time with your family and friends, you may need to sneak off for a day by yourself, to putter and read and clear your head of the noise of too much conversation. When you're at your best, you live with a rhythm of time with others, time alone, time with others, time alone It's a satisfying, comfortable balance. Lucky you!
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
You may occasionally run into problems with other people. Since not everyone is as balanced as you are, close friends and family may get frustrated with you, or you with them. They may be more sociable and outgoing, and find you too laid-back and relaxed. They want conversations to be lively and passionate while you keep things amiable and civil. Or others may be more quiet and reserved than you, and when you're in one of your more animated moments they may wish you would back off. You may be ready to put more energy into a conversation than they are comfortable with.
And your balance may be a problem. Other people may be consistently more sociable or more reserved than you, and find you to hard to read, some may even say you ride the fence. Others may find themselves envious of your ability to be outgoing at times, and at other times comfortably reserved. If you pay attention to pick up these cues you will be in a better position to know how you want to interact with such folks.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Most people will truly appreciate your flexibility in social situations. They will like you for your amiable warmth and your willingness to engage, and for your ability to sit back and let others take the lead or the spotlight. They will appreciate ways in which you temper what could become intemperate moments; by remaining poised and relaxed when others; temperatures are rising, you keep things civil and sane.
You are as good at listening and following as you are at talking and leading, and people will often appreciate your ability to adapt to the situation. Because you are sometimes outgoing and sometimes reserved, you will make most people comfortable in your presence, and they will truly enjoy your company.
Interesting! I was expecting this one to be the most clear cut, and yet, it surprised me. I'm not too sure I agree with it in it's entirety, though I think I have calmed down in the last few years, and undoubtedly enjoy my own company at times. That said, I don't believe I'm as good at listening as at talking, or that I will calm the proceedings. Perhaps I will dwell a little more on this and get back to you!
Monday, November 16, 2009
The quest continues - pt 4
On to the penultimate section, conscientousness (focused or flexible)...
Your approach toward your obligations is:
FLEXIBLE
Words that describe you:
•Spontaneous
•Intuitive
•Perceptive
•Natural
•Somewhat Disorganised
•Unpredictable At Times
A general description of how you interact with others:
When there's a job to be done, like most people you want to know what the goal is and when it's to be completed. For you, that's a start. Next you want to know what the plan is to get to the goal. So you lay out a plan, or at least the major points of a plan: "Organise the kitchen sometime this spring" or "Get the project at work done as soon as possible." You don't need an in-depth specification of every little detail; in fact you prefer not to work that way. You lay out your goals, develop a general plan, and then you get things done.
You believe in intuition as well as organisation. As such, you trust impulses as much as strategies and you value spontaneity as much as you do efficiency. In a word, you like to keep it flexible. When you set out to accomplish a task, you prefer to have some room to manoeuvre. Like an artist, you find that the best way to reach a goal is not always in a straight line. Some of the most productive times for you are the unplanned moments of inspiration and creativity that just come to you. While you do keep to a general plan, those times of pure vision and originality are what really drive you.
Some of the people who rely completely on an organised approach to getting things done may be surprised at your efficiency. But there is a definite method to your approach. With a creative flair that others may not have anticipated, the original plan gets met and there are often a few extra accomplishments along the way. Your comfort zone starts with a task and a plan but it also requires the freedom to be able to go with your instincts and impulses so that you can not just accomplish the task, you also have the option to explore something brand new along the way.
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
People may have problems with your style for two reasons. First, you don't always follow the rules or go along with detailed plans, whether at work or at home. Those who need the details to stay on task just don't quite understand how you are going to get it all done. Second, while you get things done - the way you veer off course at times and use your creativity may leave others wondering what went on. Some people find all this creativity and thinking "out-of-the-box" at odds with their desire to follow a clear course. And this causes not only some confusion it may also spark some anger toward you at times. Even you would likely admit that living and working with you takes someone who is able to let you do your thing at times. If someone is really tied to a rigid approach to how things should get done, there is clearly the potential for some conflict with you.
Every workplace and home does need a modicum of reliability and a decent amount or order and organisation if it is to accommodate the mix of people who work or live there. That leads to a serious question for you: Are there times when your creative, though at times unpredictable, style keeps others off balance? Are there some plans that should be sacred, some space always well organised, some charts left as designed? Are there are some things you could change that would allow those who live and work with you to feel more in control; changes that wouldn't impinge on your creative processes? If others are finding your style to be difficult to deal with you may want to consider how you can all work together most efficiently.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
The truth is that your work style gets things done, often with more beauty, fun, creativity and imagination than others could ever manage. But your style is very unique to you. Flexibility is essential to your style. With your creativity and flexibility the path you take to any goal can make everyone's accomplishments more inventive and enjoyable. Bringing some extra enjoyment to people's work can be a real asset; one you may want to use more consciously.
Deep down inside there's also another truth you should consider. A lot of people wish they had some of whatever it is that you've got. They get so bogged down reading the committee notes or checking the project calendar that they seldom just cut loose and let their impulses run. They neglect their intuition to the point that it barely whispers - that is, until you come along with yours shouting out loud and remind everyone in the room that there's something to listen to besides the original plan and the orderly, organised path laid out to get there. So not only do you enhance the accomplishments of the group, you also enhance the lives of each member willing to find in themselves the spontaneity that is your trademark personal characteristic.
Back to spot on again it seems - I would agree with pretty much all of this, and it's only been the last few weeks that I've really thought about how much flexibility and spontaneity I need to function fully and happily. See, the joys of learning...
Your approach toward your obligations is:
FLEXIBLE
Words that describe you:
•Spontaneous
•Intuitive
•Perceptive
•Natural
•Somewhat Disorganised
•Unpredictable At Times
A general description of how you interact with others:
When there's a job to be done, like most people you want to know what the goal is and when it's to be completed. For you, that's a start. Next you want to know what the plan is to get to the goal. So you lay out a plan, or at least the major points of a plan: "Organise the kitchen sometime this spring" or "Get the project at work done as soon as possible." You don't need an in-depth specification of every little detail; in fact you prefer not to work that way. You lay out your goals, develop a general plan, and then you get things done.
You believe in intuition as well as organisation. As such, you trust impulses as much as strategies and you value spontaneity as much as you do efficiency. In a word, you like to keep it flexible. When you set out to accomplish a task, you prefer to have some room to manoeuvre. Like an artist, you find that the best way to reach a goal is not always in a straight line. Some of the most productive times for you are the unplanned moments of inspiration and creativity that just come to you. While you do keep to a general plan, those times of pure vision and originality are what really drive you.
Some of the people who rely completely on an organised approach to getting things done may be surprised at your efficiency. But there is a definite method to your approach. With a creative flair that others may not have anticipated, the original plan gets met and there are often a few extra accomplishments along the way. Your comfort zone starts with a task and a plan but it also requires the freedom to be able to go with your instincts and impulses so that you can not just accomplish the task, you also have the option to explore something brand new along the way.
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
People may have problems with your style for two reasons. First, you don't always follow the rules or go along with detailed plans, whether at work or at home. Those who need the details to stay on task just don't quite understand how you are going to get it all done. Second, while you get things done - the way you veer off course at times and use your creativity may leave others wondering what went on. Some people find all this creativity and thinking "out-of-the-box" at odds with their desire to follow a clear course. And this causes not only some confusion it may also spark some anger toward you at times. Even you would likely admit that living and working with you takes someone who is able to let you do your thing at times. If someone is really tied to a rigid approach to how things should get done, there is clearly the potential for some conflict with you.
Every workplace and home does need a modicum of reliability and a decent amount or order and organisation if it is to accommodate the mix of people who work or live there. That leads to a serious question for you: Are there times when your creative, though at times unpredictable, style keeps others off balance? Are there some plans that should be sacred, some space always well organised, some charts left as designed? Are there are some things you could change that would allow those who live and work with you to feel more in control; changes that wouldn't impinge on your creative processes? If others are finding your style to be difficult to deal with you may want to consider how you can all work together most efficiently.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
The truth is that your work style gets things done, often with more beauty, fun, creativity and imagination than others could ever manage. But your style is very unique to you. Flexibility is essential to your style. With your creativity and flexibility the path you take to any goal can make everyone's accomplishments more inventive and enjoyable. Bringing some extra enjoyment to people's work can be a real asset; one you may want to use more consciously.
Deep down inside there's also another truth you should consider. A lot of people wish they had some of whatever it is that you've got. They get so bogged down reading the committee notes or checking the project calendar that they seldom just cut loose and let their impulses run. They neglect their intuition to the point that it barely whispers - that is, until you come along with yours shouting out loud and remind everyone in the room that there's something to listen to besides the original plan and the orderly, organised path laid out to get there. So not only do you enhance the accomplishments of the group, you also enhance the lives of each member willing to find in themselves the spontaneity that is your trademark personal characteristic.
Back to spot on again it seems - I would agree with pretty much all of this, and it's only been the last few weeks that I've really thought about how much flexibility and spontaneity I need to function fully and happily. See, the joys of learning...
Memories
I have just spent the last hour or so uploading photos from my phone etc and organising them on my laptop as well as posting them on my facebook. It's great to look back but sometimes it makes me sad - especially looking at my vegas photos. I want to go to Vegas again! Now please.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The quest continues - pt 3
Yes, there is more. I am still loving this, and in fact, if I had the money I would be whipping myself down to some kind of psychoanalyst to learn even more!
So, we've done agreeability, openness, and now we have... emotional stability!
On emotional stability you are:
SOMETIMES STEADY, SOMETIMES RESPONSIVE
Words that describe you:
•Adaptable
•Engaged
•Able to Cope
•Passionate
•Perceptive
•Flexible
•Receptive
•Aware
•Avid
A general description of your reactivity:
In some ways, you've got the best of emotional worlds. When emotions rise up from inside you or are brought forth from a conversation by a friend, you know how to engage them. You deal with sadness, fear, joy, anger - whatever comes up - in ways that are perceptive and flexible. You can adapt to whatever level of emotion is appropriate to the moment. At other times, you are able to cope with your emotions in a more reserved manner. Because you are aware of what does and does not make emotional sense in a particular situation, you will decide when it is an appropriate time to express your emotions and when it would be best to keep them to yourself.
All of this gives you a rich emotional life. You are free to express your passions about certain subjects with appropriate people. But you are also emotionally adaptable; if the conversation needs to be more cerebral, you'll keep it "in your head" and talk calmly through whatever issue is on the table. This emotional awareness serves you well. You seldom get in over your head, either by opening up to the wrong person or by triggering in someone else's emotions they may not be able to deal with.
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
When it comes to dealing with emotions we all meet some people with whom we don't match well. You bring a balanced approach to your emotional life. As such, those who are at the extremes are most likely to have a negative reaction to you. Those who live in their emotions may feel you tend to "live in your head" while those who go through life as an emotional rock may feel that you are a bit too "touchy feely" for their approach.
And of course it is always possible that because you do balance your emotional approach to life you may misread others - we all do at times. So there have undoubtedly been those times when you have misread cues and stayed in your head with someone who hoped for a more open emotional approach or you may have opened up emotionally with someone who keeps their emotions bottled up. But these things happen and since you do have a good balance of being in touch with your emotions and not being overly impacted by emotional swings, you undoubtedly are able to adapt.
Another potential problem is that as people get to know you well, they will discover that you have a great balance between emotional expression and emotional control. If they don't have this balance they may wind up envying you. They can't express feelings as well as you, or they are too often out of emotional control and resent you for your ability to cope so well with the very emotions that may trip them up.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Many people will be grateful to find a friend like you who can stay in control when emotions verge on chaos, but who can also go into the tangle of emotions when it is safe and appropriate to do so. Because of your ability to engage them at whatever level they are comfortable, to adapt to whatever changes in emotion emerge in the conversation, and to cope so well with all of it - well, they'll be very glad they found a person like you. You may, in fact, wind up as something of an emotional mentor. Your awareness of the emotional temperature of a situation, your ability to adapt to either heat or cold, and your ability to cope with whatever winds up happening in the conversation could be models for them to follow as they come to terms with their own emotional worlds.
Aha, at last, I am not so sure this is a perfect fit. Not saying that it is completely out of the box - though the last paragraph probably is, but that it isn't instantly recognisable to me! I shall have to consult those who know me for comment!
So, we've done agreeability, openness, and now we have... emotional stability!
On emotional stability you are:
SOMETIMES STEADY, SOMETIMES RESPONSIVE
Words that describe you:
•Adaptable
•Engaged
•Able to Cope
•Passionate
•Perceptive
•Flexible
•Receptive
•Aware
•Avid
A general description of your reactivity:
In some ways, you've got the best of emotional worlds. When emotions rise up from inside you or are brought forth from a conversation by a friend, you know how to engage them. You deal with sadness, fear, joy, anger - whatever comes up - in ways that are perceptive and flexible. You can adapt to whatever level of emotion is appropriate to the moment. At other times, you are able to cope with your emotions in a more reserved manner. Because you are aware of what does and does not make emotional sense in a particular situation, you will decide when it is an appropriate time to express your emotions and when it would be best to keep them to yourself.
All of this gives you a rich emotional life. You are free to express your passions about certain subjects with appropriate people. But you are also emotionally adaptable; if the conversation needs to be more cerebral, you'll keep it "in your head" and talk calmly through whatever issue is on the table. This emotional awareness serves you well. You seldom get in over your head, either by opening up to the wrong person or by triggering in someone else's emotions they may not be able to deal with.
Negative reactions others may have toward you:
When it comes to dealing with emotions we all meet some people with whom we don't match well. You bring a balanced approach to your emotional life. As such, those who are at the extremes are most likely to have a negative reaction to you. Those who live in their emotions may feel you tend to "live in your head" while those who go through life as an emotional rock may feel that you are a bit too "touchy feely" for their approach.
And of course it is always possible that because you do balance your emotional approach to life you may misread others - we all do at times. So there have undoubtedly been those times when you have misread cues and stayed in your head with someone who hoped for a more open emotional approach or you may have opened up emotionally with someone who keeps their emotions bottled up. But these things happen and since you do have a good balance of being in touch with your emotions and not being overly impacted by emotional swings, you undoubtedly are able to adapt.
Another potential problem is that as people get to know you well, they will discover that you have a great balance between emotional expression and emotional control. If they don't have this balance they may wind up envying you. They can't express feelings as well as you, or they are too often out of emotional control and resent you for your ability to cope so well with the very emotions that may trip them up.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Many people will be grateful to find a friend like you who can stay in control when emotions verge on chaos, but who can also go into the tangle of emotions when it is safe and appropriate to do so. Because of your ability to engage them at whatever level they are comfortable, to adapt to whatever changes in emotion emerge in the conversation, and to cope so well with all of it - well, they'll be very glad they found a person like you. You may, in fact, wind up as something of an emotional mentor. Your awareness of the emotional temperature of a situation, your ability to adapt to either heat or cold, and your ability to cope with whatever winds up happening in the conversation could be models for them to follow as they come to terms with their own emotional worlds.
Aha, at last, I am not so sure this is a perfect fit. Not saying that it is completely out of the box - though the last paragraph probably is, but that it isn't instantly recognisable to me! I shall have to consult those who know me for comment!
Tired
I am getting so old! I just can't handle the late nights like I used to.
Had a great time with Disco and friends last night, started off in one pub for a while for lots of chatter, before the majority of us moved on to more of a towny place for more drinking and dancing. I'm not a great lover of the typical town centre pub/club, but if I'm in the mood then I can pretty much deal with anything and I was quite up for a night out last night so all was good with me. The fact that Disco's brother was there and looking particularly hot also helped the night fly by - though nothing more than looking, a. he has a girlfriend, and b. he is Disco's brother! That would just be too, too weird. Oh and c. I think he's only 30.
So, after not leaving the pub til 3.30am, and then dropping off Mrs Smiler and another mutual friend, it was 4am by the time I got in, which meant I pretty much headed straight for my bed, where fortunately I was able to remain until lunchtime today, as X was at her dad's last night.
That said, I'm flaggging again now, and feel the need to settle down on the sofa for a while - after a quick trip to the shop for some medicinal chocolate...!
Had a great time with Disco and friends last night, started off in one pub for a while for lots of chatter, before the majority of us moved on to more of a towny place for more drinking and dancing. I'm not a great lover of the typical town centre pub/club, but if I'm in the mood then I can pretty much deal with anything and I was quite up for a night out last night so all was good with me. The fact that Disco's brother was there and looking particularly hot also helped the night fly by - though nothing more than looking, a. he has a girlfriend, and b. he is Disco's brother! That would just be too, too weird. Oh and c. I think he's only 30.
So, after not leaving the pub til 3.30am, and then dropping off Mrs Smiler and another mutual friend, it was 4am by the time I got in, which meant I pretty much headed straight for my bed, where fortunately I was able to remain until lunchtime today, as X was at her dad's last night.
That said, I'm flaggging again now, and feel the need to settle down on the sofa for a while - after a quick trip to the shop for some medicinal chocolate...!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
The quest continues - pt 2
Ooh, on to more. So, yesterday was Agreeableness, today we have Openess (curious or contented) to throw into the mix...
On the Openness dimension you are:
SOMETIMES CURIOUS, SOMETIMES CONTENT
Words that describe you:
•Accepting
•Flexible
•Educated
•Self-aware
•Middle-of-the-road
•Proper
•Distinctive
•Indecisive
•Adaptable
How you approach new information and experiences:
Like someone who can sleep comfortably on either side of the bed, you are equally at home with ideas and beliefs that you have held for a long time and with new ways of thinking and believing that grow out of your intellectual curiosity.
Your sense of who you are and what your place is in the world around you rests on values and principles that are the solid ground you walk upon. You've tested them, they work for you, and much of the time you are content to trust them, that is, until some provocative new idea slips in from a conversation, book or some flight of your active imagination. "Hmmmm. What's this. Never thought of it before." And off you go, exploring.
Since you love to learn, you've always been teachable; you absorb new information, which means you are well-educated in things that matter to you. Sometimes your intellectual exploring will lead you back to where you started; the "next new thing" proves too shallow or impractical to you. But once in a while a new idea or belief will dislodge you from the ground you've stood upon; it is so compelling and persuasive that you step away from the tried-and-true and embrace this notion that is brand new to you.
Because you hold both solid beliefs and are open to new ideas, you are accepting of other people and other ways of thinking and believing. You are flexible enough to listen to something new and different, or something outside of your comfort zone; if it works for you, you'll take it in, and if not, you'll let it go. In this sense, you know who you are: you are neither closed-minded nor wildly open-minded, but walk somewhere near the middle of the intellectual road.
Negative reactions others may have toward your style of thinking:
Not everyone will be thrilled by your flexible, middle-of-the-road ways of thinking and believing. A few people are so taken with flights of imagination into whatever is new that they might find your commitment to long-standing values and beliefs too confining, if not too boring. Oh well; so be it. They'll just have to be in free-flight without you.
Others are content with the ideas that have served them and their culture well; they're not excited by the prospect of moving on. And some people are afraid of new ways of thinking because they are somewhat fragile; they have trouble maintaining their current worlds and don't want someone like you, for instance pushing out the edges of their intellectual cosmos. So don't be surprised if your solid values sometimes make people distrust you as an explorer, or if your flexible and open mind sometimes gets you criticized by people who walk away from the very same explorations that you find refreshing.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Many others will find you trustworthy and therefore an attractive companion on the intellectual journey. They will appreciate the combination in you of open-mindedness and a commitment to the tried-and-true. In an intellectual climate sometimes dominated by the extremes of either wild innovation or dug-in traditionalism, your moderate views and your proper acceptance of a wide range of possibilities will be a distinctive and refreshing quality. Because you join your curiosity to strong foundational ideas and beliefs and practical solutions to problems, people will trust your occasional explorations into new territories to be reliable, and not "something new for newness sake".
You are accepting of others, flexible in your own intellectual commitments, well-informed in areas that matter to you, and comfortably aware of who you are and where you stand. This combination will make you a desirable companion on the intellectual journey for many, many people.
Hmm, I'm agreeing so far - I wasn't sure 'middle of the road' was what I would have described myself as, but the wider bumph makes absolute sense. I must go and absorb...
On the Openness dimension you are:
SOMETIMES CURIOUS, SOMETIMES CONTENT
Words that describe you:
•Accepting
•Flexible
•Educated
•Self-aware
•Middle-of-the-road
•Proper
•Distinctive
•Indecisive
•Adaptable
How you approach new information and experiences:
Like someone who can sleep comfortably on either side of the bed, you are equally at home with ideas and beliefs that you have held for a long time and with new ways of thinking and believing that grow out of your intellectual curiosity.
Your sense of who you are and what your place is in the world around you rests on values and principles that are the solid ground you walk upon. You've tested them, they work for you, and much of the time you are content to trust them, that is, until some provocative new idea slips in from a conversation, book or some flight of your active imagination. "Hmmmm. What's this. Never thought of it before." And off you go, exploring.
Since you love to learn, you've always been teachable; you absorb new information, which means you are well-educated in things that matter to you. Sometimes your intellectual exploring will lead you back to where you started; the "next new thing" proves too shallow or impractical to you. But once in a while a new idea or belief will dislodge you from the ground you've stood upon; it is so compelling and persuasive that you step away from the tried-and-true and embrace this notion that is brand new to you.
Because you hold both solid beliefs and are open to new ideas, you are accepting of other people and other ways of thinking and believing. You are flexible enough to listen to something new and different, or something outside of your comfort zone; if it works for you, you'll take it in, and if not, you'll let it go. In this sense, you know who you are: you are neither closed-minded nor wildly open-minded, but walk somewhere near the middle of the intellectual road.
Negative reactions others may have toward your style of thinking:
Not everyone will be thrilled by your flexible, middle-of-the-road ways of thinking and believing. A few people are so taken with flights of imagination into whatever is new that they might find your commitment to long-standing values and beliefs too confining, if not too boring. Oh well; so be it. They'll just have to be in free-flight without you.
Others are content with the ideas that have served them and their culture well; they're not excited by the prospect of moving on. And some people are afraid of new ways of thinking because they are somewhat fragile; they have trouble maintaining their current worlds and don't want someone like you, for instance pushing out the edges of their intellectual cosmos. So don't be surprised if your solid values sometimes make people distrust you as an explorer, or if your flexible and open mind sometimes gets you criticized by people who walk away from the very same explorations that you find refreshing.
Positive responses others may have toward you:
Many others will find you trustworthy and therefore an attractive companion on the intellectual journey. They will appreciate the combination in you of open-mindedness and a commitment to the tried-and-true. In an intellectual climate sometimes dominated by the extremes of either wild innovation or dug-in traditionalism, your moderate views and your proper acceptance of a wide range of possibilities will be a distinctive and refreshing quality. Because you join your curiosity to strong foundational ideas and beliefs and practical solutions to problems, people will trust your occasional explorations into new territories to be reliable, and not "something new for newness sake".
You are accepting of others, flexible in your own intellectual commitments, well-informed in areas that matter to you, and comfortably aware of who you are and where you stand. This combination will make you a desirable companion on the intellectual journey for many, many people.
Hmm, I'm agreeing so far - I wasn't sure 'middle of the road' was what I would have described myself as, but the wider bumph makes absolute sense. I must go and absorb...
Venturing out
Well I'm off out tonight, venturing out into the continuing wind and rain, to catch up with Disco and a few friends in nearby town. It is Disco's birthday celebration but I'm not sure how celebratory she will be as she has just split up with her boyfriend so not at her best. I'm surprised at how up for it I'm feeling to be honest, usually I think I'll go and then as it gets nearer I get quite "can't be bothered" about the whole thing, but tonight I'm good to go.
Talking of which, better get those hair straighteners on!
Talking of which, better get those hair straighteners on!
Don't You Forget About Me
Right, I really, really must go to bed - only because I have to be up for bowling in the morning - I am feeling SO unsleepy!! Have just heard this on the telly though, and haven't heard it for years so must post it for prosperity.
This will definitely be the last one tonight!
If only you could, eh...?
This will definitely be the last one tonight!
If only you could, eh...?
Rockstar
I would love to be a big rock star, but alas, due to a really bad voice, no sense of rythm and being tone deaf, it is highly unlikely! At least, on insomniac nights such as these, I know I'm not alone...
Friday, November 13, 2009
Howling
The wind is howling a gale outside and there is something so satisfying about being inside and hearing the wind roaring outside!
The quest continues - pt 1
Oooh, ooh, ooh! Have just signed up to eharmony, mainly for nosiness sake rather than an real desire to meet men - which is a good job as they have no matches for me because apparently my perameters are too tight or some such nonsense - but, how fabulous that they do all this personality profiling stuff which I'm just loving!! And it does seem very accurate to be fair. Here is the first bit, which is around
Agreeability (taking care of others or taking care of yourself)...
You are best described as:
CONSISTENTLY TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Words that describe you:
•Uncompromising
•Frank
•Astute
•Critical
•Empirical
•Tough
•Discerning
•Sceptical
•Shrewd
Interaction with others:
When someone needs your help or wants you to do something you think before you act. See, at heart you believe deeply in personal freedom and individual responsibility. You think it is vital that people learn to take care of themselves so that they don't become dependent upon others. You believe that actions have consequences, and people need to accept the consequences of their actions if they are to learn from their mistakes and grow. You believe you wouldn't be doing anyone a favour if you lift someone out of trouble; they will never learn to lift themselves up if you keep rescuing them. And if you keep giving people a second, third or fourth chance, you have seen that people seldom develop the character they need to live decent and responsible lives.
You believe that compassion has a role to play in your life, in a structure of values that is encourages people to take care of themselves. Uncritical tenderheartedness does as much harm as good. You much prefer if people understand, in factual, empirical terms, how they got into trouble, and how they can lift themselves out of the mess they are in. In an emergency, of course, you're there to offer help and if someone has helped you out in the past there is no question about your loyalty. But whenever it is realistic, you are convinced people should take care of themselves.
Along with this you devote adequate time to taking care of your own needs and wants, in part because it makes you happy with your life and in part because that's what you truly believe every person should do. You cherish personal independence for yourself and others. Fostering such independence is the best way you find there is to love and care for others.
Negative reactions others may have:
Your emphasis on personal independence and personal responsibility may seem to lack in compassion to some people. Undoubtedly you have encountered people who feel this way toward you. And some may find you to be rather selfish. You do stay focused on your own life, take responsibility for your own problems, and are not always moved by situations in which some people think some action is required. That is part of you and your basic beliefs about life. And some people will inevitably want you to be different, but that is simply not who you are.
Positive responses others may have:
You're true to your beliefs and you hold yourself to the same expectations as you do with others. You are critical and tough with yourself, which gives you a consistency when you are critical and tough with others. And even when others don't agree with you, people are likely to admire your frankness. You say what you believe, even if what you believe runs counter to the motives and beliefs of others.
And you keep reminding people of two things that few people can argue with, even if they don't believe in them with your single-mindedness. Personal independence and personal responsibility matter to most people, and even the very compassionate admit that sometimes their hearts get in the way of what their heads know, which is to say that people should take care of themselves whenever they are able to do so. You remind people of this, in the honest way you live your own life and in the ways in which you respond, and don't respond, to other people.
All so true! All so fabulous! Loving, loving, loving it!!!!
Agreeability (taking care of others or taking care of yourself)...
You are best described as:
CONSISTENTLY TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Words that describe you:
•Uncompromising
•Frank
•Astute
•Critical
•Empirical
•Tough
•Discerning
•Sceptical
•Shrewd
Interaction with others:
When someone needs your help or wants you to do something you think before you act. See, at heart you believe deeply in personal freedom and individual responsibility. You think it is vital that people learn to take care of themselves so that they don't become dependent upon others. You believe that actions have consequences, and people need to accept the consequences of their actions if they are to learn from their mistakes and grow. You believe you wouldn't be doing anyone a favour if you lift someone out of trouble; they will never learn to lift themselves up if you keep rescuing them. And if you keep giving people a second, third or fourth chance, you have seen that people seldom develop the character they need to live decent and responsible lives.
You believe that compassion has a role to play in your life, in a structure of values that is encourages people to take care of themselves. Uncritical tenderheartedness does as much harm as good. You much prefer if people understand, in factual, empirical terms, how they got into trouble, and how they can lift themselves out of the mess they are in. In an emergency, of course, you're there to offer help and if someone has helped you out in the past there is no question about your loyalty. But whenever it is realistic, you are convinced people should take care of themselves.
Along with this you devote adequate time to taking care of your own needs and wants, in part because it makes you happy with your life and in part because that's what you truly believe every person should do. You cherish personal independence for yourself and others. Fostering such independence is the best way you find there is to love and care for others.
Negative reactions others may have:
Your emphasis on personal independence and personal responsibility may seem to lack in compassion to some people. Undoubtedly you have encountered people who feel this way toward you. And some may find you to be rather selfish. You do stay focused on your own life, take responsibility for your own problems, and are not always moved by situations in which some people think some action is required. That is part of you and your basic beliefs about life. And some people will inevitably want you to be different, but that is simply not who you are.
Positive responses others may have:
You're true to your beliefs and you hold yourself to the same expectations as you do with others. You are critical and tough with yourself, which gives you a consistency when you are critical and tough with others. And even when others don't agree with you, people are likely to admire your frankness. You say what you believe, even if what you believe runs counter to the motives and beliefs of others.
And you keep reminding people of two things that few people can argue with, even if they don't believe in them with your single-mindedness. Personal independence and personal responsibility matter to most people, and even the very compassionate admit that sometimes their hearts get in the way of what their heads know, which is to say that people should take care of themselves whenever they are able to do so. You remind people of this, in the honest way you live your own life and in the ways in which you respond, and don't respond, to other people.
All so true! All so fabulous! Loving, loving, loving it!!!!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
I'll Stand By You
Another great, great tune...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maAyfcO-X3k
Stupid bloody Youtube won't let me paste the embedding properly! Damn thing!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maAyfcO-X3k
Stupid bloody Youtube won't let me paste the embedding properly! Damn thing!!
Pictures of You
I'm feeling a little musical at the moment, and this is an oldie but oh so goodie...
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Fed and watered
Am home - too much food and too much wine. Now feel far too full and getting my boots off was an effort. Had lovely time though - helped by very cute waiter - even though I wasnt allowed to go out fag hagging with Mick after dinner. Probably a wise decision in hindsight.
Must go to bed now.
Must go to bed now.
School night
Yay, I am off out for dinner tonight - and on a school night as well. Am meeting Mick for some food and gossip and he is driving so I may even indulge in a few glasses of wine as well. Besides, he is bound to pay. Yay Mick!
Monday, November 09, 2009
Brrrr!
It is sooooo cold! Winter is coming it seems. Although it's great to be inside in your pj's on these cold winter nights - I am seriously getting so old!
Nothing much to report at present - everything seems pretty level at the moment, and much as I love the excitement of life (if only!) I'm learning to appreciate the calm times.
No man news - which is fine by me to be honest, and work is not too bad - though I can sense challenges ahead. At least for the moment, the few difficult situations that I've recently been in have been resolved and I've had enough breathing space to take a deep breath and ready myself for the challenges ahead.
Life is blah, but in a good way!
Nothing much to report at present - everything seems pretty level at the moment, and much as I love the excitement of life (if only!) I'm learning to appreciate the calm times.
No man news - which is fine by me to be honest, and work is not too bad - though I can sense challenges ahead. At least for the moment, the few difficult situations that I've recently been in have been resolved and I've had enough breathing space to take a deep breath and ready myself for the challenges ahead.
Life is blah, but in a good way!
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Diversion
Before I get too caught up in days of soul searching on the quest for the truth about OG I thought I had better post a quick update regarding Robin. Unfortunately, he was not there this Monday - I am hoping it was nothing to do with Y's illness the weekend before! - and most annoyingly there is no archery next Monday, so grrr no developments as yet and none possible for the immediate future. Good job I have the self indulgence of ME to keep me occupied!
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
MBTI ENTP
For the sake of prosperity and future reference (as I will no doubt lose the paper copy!), the wonderful world of OG according to Myers Briggs:
ENTP - Extroversion, iNtuition, Thinking, Perceiving
Energetic, brash, witty, original, ENTPs want to be where the action is, but on their terms. ENTPs may need to be aware of unintentionally bruising the feelings of others through their love of argument and of having the last word.
Overiding need:
To be right and to be first.
Seen by others:
As articulate, funny, forceful; can be abrasive and competitive.
Sees self:
As ruthlessly honest; always ready to mock own absurdities.
Works best:
With intelligent people willing to have a go; with other experts in their field who need little day to day direction.
Works least well:
With people who like the traditional ways of doing things or who need to have everything spelt out and be shown what to do.
As team member:
Contributes best at initial stage of project; offers analytical insights, enthusiasm, energy.
Leads by:
Challenging conventional wisdon; believing that the impossible is within reach; persuading, bullying, cajoling; ignoring 'silly' bureaucratic rules; being generous with praise for good work; assuming they are merely first among equals. Needs support of others to cope with practical detail.
Ideal organisation:
Gives maximum independence with emphasis on novelty, creative experiment, frank discussion and the exchange of ideas.
Ideal boss:
Has similar background; trusts the ENTP's judgement; willing to have lively exchange of ideas on equal footing; gets resources needed and copes with the bureaucracy.
In relationships:
Offers fun, surprise and drama; knows he or she needs people, sensitive to being ignored, but also needs to guard the inner, private person; finds it hard to express vulnerability - may cover up with humour.
Makes mistakes:
When blunt speaking gets out of hand; when having to cope with routine.
Decides:
Quickly on the basis of future possibilities; may change his or her mind equally rapidly if a new idea catches the fancy, so may sometimes seem inconsistent.
Sees change:
As what life is all about; welcomes it may sometimes overlook the need for practical implementation.
Thinks:
Broadly and strategically; attracted to grand ideas and theoretical models.
Communicates:
By thinking out loud; discussion and debate are prime tools; confident, racy performer in public; may not be so good at listening - may interrupt unwisely.
Irritated by:
Stodginess, lack of rationality; people who use silence as a weapon; people who don't try.
Irritates by:
Wanting the last word; regarding tidiness as an over-rated virtue (this is completely not me - I am insanely tidy!); seeking the limelight too often; being late.
As a parent:
Contributes unpredictability and fun (I never feel as if I'm a fun parent - maybe that is the constraints of single parenthood, finances, time, etc); teaches children the importance of self-sufficiency and learning.
Relaxation:
Work is play and play is work; juggling the two is in itself enjoyable.
Under stress:
Steps up the workload; gets argumentative; succumbs to hypochondria; has tantrums; feels unloved and unlovable; withdraws from others; neglects self.
*Taken from Sixteen Personality Types - At Work in Organisations (Jenny Rogers)
I would really like to find out more detail about the relationships aspect of my personality type, particularly in terms of relationships in the standard sense, but also with regard to my parenting, and think this would be really useful to help me understand myself. After all, knowledge is power, so let the search for personal learning continue...
ENTP - Extroversion, iNtuition, Thinking, Perceiving
Energetic, brash, witty, original, ENTPs want to be where the action is, but on their terms. ENTPs may need to be aware of unintentionally bruising the feelings of others through their love of argument and of having the last word.
Overiding need:
To be right and to be first.
Seen by others:
As articulate, funny, forceful; can be abrasive and competitive.
Sees self:
As ruthlessly honest; always ready to mock own absurdities.
Works best:
With intelligent people willing to have a go; with other experts in their field who need little day to day direction.
Works least well:
With people who like the traditional ways of doing things or who need to have everything spelt out and be shown what to do.
As team member:
Contributes best at initial stage of project; offers analytical insights, enthusiasm, energy.
Leads by:
Challenging conventional wisdon; believing that the impossible is within reach; persuading, bullying, cajoling; ignoring 'silly' bureaucratic rules; being generous with praise for good work; assuming they are merely first among equals. Needs support of others to cope with practical detail.
Ideal organisation:
Gives maximum independence with emphasis on novelty, creative experiment, frank discussion and the exchange of ideas.
Ideal boss:
Has similar background; trusts the ENTP's judgement; willing to have lively exchange of ideas on equal footing; gets resources needed and copes with the bureaucracy.
In relationships:
Offers fun, surprise and drama; knows he or she needs people, sensitive to being ignored, but also needs to guard the inner, private person; finds it hard to express vulnerability - may cover up with humour.
Makes mistakes:
When blunt speaking gets out of hand; when having to cope with routine.
Decides:
Quickly on the basis of future possibilities; may change his or her mind equally rapidly if a new idea catches the fancy, so may sometimes seem inconsistent.
Sees change:
As what life is all about; welcomes it may sometimes overlook the need for practical implementation.
Thinks:
Broadly and strategically; attracted to grand ideas and theoretical models.
Communicates:
By thinking out loud; discussion and debate are prime tools; confident, racy performer in public; may not be so good at listening - may interrupt unwisely.
Irritated by:
Stodginess, lack of rationality; people who use silence as a weapon; people who don't try.
Irritates by:
Wanting the last word; regarding tidiness as an over-rated virtue (this is completely not me - I am insanely tidy!); seeking the limelight too often; being late.
As a parent:
Contributes unpredictability and fun (I never feel as if I'm a fun parent - maybe that is the constraints of single parenthood, finances, time, etc); teaches children the importance of self-sufficiency and learning.
Relaxation:
Work is play and play is work; juggling the two is in itself enjoyable.
Under stress:
Steps up the workload; gets argumentative; succumbs to hypochondria; has tantrums; feels unloved and unlovable; withdraws from others; neglects self.
*Taken from Sixteen Personality Types - At Work in Organisations (Jenny Rogers)
I would really like to find out more detail about the relationships aspect of my personality type, particularly in terms of relationships in the standard sense, but also with regard to my parenting, and think this would be really useful to help me understand myself. After all, knowledge is power, so let the search for personal learning continue...
The other side
I am sure you will be pleased to know I am out the other side of the recent funk, I think! Today has been a good day! Bridey has finally had her baby, after 4 days of labour and much yukky trauma, but baby is here now, Bridey is recovering and all is well - will hopefully get to see them both on Saturday!
I have had some difficulties at work recently - a completely unexpected, unpredictable and impossible to manage situation which has had a real impact on a key member of staff and will result in my recent addition being removed from the team shortly after starting. Despite this, I've felt really supported by my line management, and although there are still difficulties to face, namely the gap that will be left in an already small team, at least a decision has been reached and the current situation ended!
I am currently doing a team leader course, 5 days spread out over 4 months, and today we did a lot of work on personality types using the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, which I thoroughly enjoyed, was really enlightening and was a day much needed after the recent work events. I found it so interesting to see that my "type" is pretty much 100% accurate, and what was most interesting is that although I struggled to categorise myself in a couple of areas (Sensing v iNtuition, and Thinking v Feeling if you're interested), what came out of the afternoon was that I'm a definite Thinker as oppose to Feeler, and even more interesting is that other people in the group said it was very clear to them that I was a Thinker. I really think I know myself well so am always pleased to discover additional facets to my personality, or to view myself in a different way. Food for thought (yes, ironic considering) indeed!
This piece of information has also made me spend some time reflecting on my personal situation in recent years, and helps to explain to me how I have struggled so much to make sense of the situation. Although it hasn't helped me to rationalise the events, or more importantly my emotions and reactions to these, I guess it has given me a little peace that it is in my nature to have that need to rationalise, and I need to examine how I find the way forward with this knowledge. Particularly as I'm aware that emotions are feelings not thoughts, and that rationalising emotions isn't always possible - though it would appear to be what I need to do. I don't know but it's been a reflective and interesting day!
I have had some difficulties at work recently - a completely unexpected, unpredictable and impossible to manage situation which has had a real impact on a key member of staff and will result in my recent addition being removed from the team shortly after starting. Despite this, I've felt really supported by my line management, and although there are still difficulties to face, namely the gap that will be left in an already small team, at least a decision has been reached and the current situation ended!
I am currently doing a team leader course, 5 days spread out over 4 months, and today we did a lot of work on personality types using the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, which I thoroughly enjoyed, was really enlightening and was a day much needed after the recent work events. I found it so interesting to see that my "type" is pretty much 100% accurate, and what was most interesting is that although I struggled to categorise myself in a couple of areas (Sensing v iNtuition, and Thinking v Feeling if you're interested), what came out of the afternoon was that I'm a definite Thinker as oppose to Feeler, and even more interesting is that other people in the group said it was very clear to them that I was a Thinker. I really think I know myself well so am always pleased to discover additional facets to my personality, or to view myself in a different way. Food for thought (yes, ironic considering) indeed!
This piece of information has also made me spend some time reflecting on my personal situation in recent years, and helps to explain to me how I have struggled so much to make sense of the situation. Although it hasn't helped me to rationalise the events, or more importantly my emotions and reactions to these, I guess it has given me a little peace that it is in my nature to have that need to rationalise, and I need to examine how I find the way forward with this knowledge. Particularly as I'm aware that emotions are feelings not thoughts, and that rationalising emotions isn't always possible - though it would appear to be what I need to do. I don't know but it's been a reflective and interesting day!
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Monday, November 02, 2009
Angry
I fucking hate banks, wanker fathers and fucking money!! I am so fucking sick of never catching up!!!
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Impatient
I am so impatient for Bridey to have her baby - don't know why! I'm certainly not broody and can't see me ever having another child, in any way, shape or form, but I'm really looking forward to her little one arriving. It's probably the ability to go over and ooh and aah and cuddle and then bugger off - perfect parenting :-)
She's been in labour since yesterday, and went to the hospital today for a check, but is not having strong enough contractions so has gone home again, and will hopefully need to go back again tonight and the deed will be done by the end of tomorrow! Her son, who is 8, has been here since yesterday evening, planned anyway so that he could come trick or treating with us and then sleep over. The plan was that he would go home today and Bridey would cook a lovely Sunday dinner for us all, however, that's all changed and he is still here! Fortunately he doesn't have school tomorrow (they live bout 17 miles from us) - much to X's disgust as she has to go! - and I can wriggle work if need be, so fingers crossed there is a new arrival this evening!!
She's been in labour since yesterday, and went to the hospital today for a check, but is not having strong enough contractions so has gone home again, and will hopefully need to go back again tonight and the deed will be done by the end of tomorrow! Her son, who is 8, has been here since yesterday evening, planned anyway so that he could come trick or treating with us and then sleep over. The plan was that he would go home today and Bridey would cook a lovely Sunday dinner for us all, however, that's all changed and he is still here! Fortunately he doesn't have school tomorrow (they live bout 17 miles from us) - much to X's disgust as she has to go! - and I can wriggle work if need be, so fingers crossed there is a new arrival this evening!!
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