The Sanguine:

Understand the Negatives

The very tendencies which allow the sanguine to be so winsome can, if allowed free rein, become terrible weaknesses. Careful discipline must be taken to eliminate the defects while encouraging the strengths. Thus, he can truly blossom into the delightful person he is meant to be.

If parents of the sanguine understand the usual imperfections, they can diligently assist the child to overcome them. It is helpful to bear in mind the positive traits. Their development is well worth the effort!

"Choose wisely and then love with all your heart." St. Augustine

Some the weak tendencies are:

• Superficiality--It must be remembered that the impressions of the sanguine are not long lasting. He grasps ideas easily and rapidly which can cause him to judge hastily and poorly and act imprudently. He forms impressions rather than taking the time for deep thought. Although he thinks that he has a task in control, upon inspection, one discovers that it is only partially finished or understood.

  This temperament shows little interest in hard work but just brushes the surface. Initially, he is greatly enthused about a topic but quickly loses interest and flits to the next subject. Long-lasting sacrifices and efforts lack any appeal and, in fact, are rather frightening to him.

• Instability--Because a single impression doesn't last long for this temperament, it is quickly followed by the next, then the next, and so on. Views can change rapidly as well as moods and resolutions. He loves variety. Without help, he can grow fickle.

• Vanity and self-complacency--This individual demonstrates pride by being very satisfied with himself. He loves to behold himself in the mirror, admiring his features, clothes and manner. This self-complacency appears, too, when he is terribly proud of his work (which may be on half done!).

  Because he wants others to agree with his high opinion of himself, flattery and praise bring great happiness and are actively sought. This can be very dangerous and lead to imprudent acts and awful sins.

• Leans to the external--Because of this, his love of beauty and his natural gregariousness, this person is inclined to flirtation which my go further if not restrained.

  His five senses are so acute that, if not checked, he is susceptible to gluttony and lust. His optimistic nature stifles his conscience and fear of punishment. He reacts with great sorrow after the fall, but has difficulty maintaining good resolutions.

  Who can not but think of dear St. Peter when reading about the sanguine temperament? He so dearly loved Our Lord. He eagerly stepped out onto the water to meet Him, ardently begged Jesus to wash all of him (not just his feet) and zealously declared that he would die with his Master. No on can doubt his sincerity. Yet, in his early years as an apostle, in most instances, St. Peter failed miserably.

  But his humility and great devotion to Jesus always lead him to repent and start over with joy and compassion. As the Bible reveals, Jesus chose Peter, the sanguine, to be the first among the apostles. A lesson for us of this temperament...

  With thoughtful discipline and guidance, the sanguine is truly a bright star. He reaches out to others with cheerfulness, charity and sincerity to lift them into his sunshine. The world is indeed more luminous in his presence.

  The Sanguine: Positive Characteristics

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