Combining MBTI and DISC, understanding the colors behind your MBTI to optimize your mindsets and interpersonal skills.

After reading “Surrounded by Idiots” by Thomas Erikson published in 2014. Out of curiosity, I would love to attempt to combine the four types of human behavior described in the book with the MBTI personality test that many are familiar with. At the end of this article, I have classified all 16 personalities into a DISC system, so you can speculate how well you can get along with other personalities and broaden your mindset.

In this book, the writer aims to help readers understand and communicate better with people whose personalities differ from their own, and I find the system very useful in analyzing people surrounding you like your beloved partner, friends so that you can understand more about the reasons behind their needs and temperaments. It applies to your workplace as well like your boss or colleagues that you like or even hate. If you find yourself not compatible with them, I am sure you can discover the reasons from this amazing book. The book constructs a personality radar in your mind allowing you to reveal the personalities of newly met people with the slightest traits.

In contrast, the MBTI personalities can provide more detailed descriptions of your characteristics for self-improvement because I don’t think somebody can tell the MBTI of a random person he met from a 10-minute discussion but he can definitely tell the personalities of a person at least roughly from the color-coded DISC system mentioned in this book.

“Surrounded by Idiots” explores human behavior through the lens of four main personality types, which he color-codes to make them more accessible:

1. Red — Dominant: These individuals are assertive, competitive, and goal-oriented. They like taking charge and making decisions.
2. Yellow — Inspiring: Yellow types are social, enthusiastic, and persuasive. They enjoy interacting with people, building relationships, and are often the life of the party.
3. Green — Stable: Stable individuals are cooperative, patient, and empathetic. They value harmony and stability in their relationships.
4. Blue — Analytical: Analytical individuals are conscientious, detail-oriented, and organized. They prefer structure and precision in their work and personal lives.

Individuals can exhibit traits of more than one color. While the author emphasizes a dominant color that characterizes a person’s primary communication style, he acknowledges that people are complex and may display behaviors from other colors depending on the situation, context, or mood.

For example, someone might have a dominant Yellow (Inspiring) communication style but also exhibit traits from the Green (Stable) category in certain situations. Erikson’s model allows for flexibility and recognizes that individuals can have a mix of characteristics from different colors. It’s a more fluid and nuanced approach to understanding human behavior than assigning a strict single-color label.

Color-coded system in the reverse title page

You can quickily identify your color from the qualities you have in the list below. Or you can do a quick test online through this link. This is not the official full version but it is a more convenient and free option. (https://uquiz.com/quiz/wSiRvN/surrounded-by-idiots-personality-test)

Qualities of different colors on p.14

\While MBTI stands for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which is a widely used personality assessment tool. It is based on the theories of Carl Jung and was developed by Katherine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers. The MBTI aims to categorize individuals into one of 16 personality types, each characterized by preferences in four dichotomies:

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I): Describes where individuals direct their energy — externally toward people and activities or internally toward thoughts and ideas.
2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N): Reflects how individuals prefer to take in information — through concrete and factual details (Sensing) or through interpreting and adding meaning (Intuition).
3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): Indicates how individuals prefer to make decisions — based on logic and consistency (Thinking) or based on the people and special circumstances (Feeling).
4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P): Refers to how individuals prefer to organize their world — by planning and making decisions (Judging) or by being spontaneous and adaptable (Perceiving).

Each person is assigned a four-letter code representing their preferences in each of these dichotomies.

Primary and Secondary Colors of 16 MBTI Personalities

1. INTJ Architect (1st: Red + 2nd: Blue)

For an INTJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be primarily the Dominance (D) category. INTJs are known for their strategic thinking, leadership qualities, and focus on achieving goals. These traits align well with the characteristics of the Dominance style in DISC, which values assertiveness, directness, and a results-oriented approach to tasks and challenges. So, an INTJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Red category in the DISC model.

The second color in the DISC model for an INTJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) would likely be Blue, corresponding to the Conscientiousness © style. While INTJs are dominant and results-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Conscientiousness, such as analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a preference for systematic planning.

So, for an INTJ, the primary DISC style might be Dominance (Red), and the secondary style might be Conscientiousness (Blue).

2. INTP Logician (1st: Blue + 2nd: Green)

An INTP (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) would likely be associated with the Conscientiousness © category in the DISC model. INTPs are known for their analytical and logical thinking, attention to detail, and a preference for planning and organization. These traits align with the characteristics of the Conscientious style, which values accuracy, precision, and systematic approaches to tasks. So, an INTP might find themselves fitting into the Blue category in the DISC model.

The second color in the DISC model for an INTP (INTp in Socionics) would likely be Green, corresponding to the Steadiness (S) style. While INTPs are known for their analytical and logical thinking, they also exhibit qualities associated with the Steadiness style, such as a calm and patient demeanor, as well as a preference for stability and cooperation in interpersonal relationships. So, for an INTP, the primary DISC style might be Conscientiousness (Blue), and the secondary style might be Steadiness (Green).

3. ENTJ Commander (1st: Red + 2nd: Yellow)

An ENTJ (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) would likely fit into the Dominance (D) category in the DISC model. ENTJs are known for their assertiveness, leadership qualities, and results-driven approach to tasks. These traits align well with the characteristics of the Dominance style, which values taking charge, assertiveness, and a focus on achieving goals.

So, an ENTJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Red category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ENTJ (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) would likely be Yellow, corresponding to the Influence (I) style. While ENTJs are dominant and results-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Influence, such as being sociable, persuasive, and focused on relationships and communication.

So, for an ENTJ, the primary DISC style might be Dominance (Red), and the secondary style might be Influence (Yellow).

4. ENTP Debater (1st: Yellow + 2nd: Red)

An ENTP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) would likely fit into the Influence (I) category in the DISC model. ENTPs are known for their sociability, creativity, and ability to persuade and influence others. These traits align well with the characteristics of the Influence style, which values communication, collaboration, and building relationships.

So, an ENTP would likely find themselves fitting into the Yellow category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ENTP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) would likely be Red, corresponding to the Dominance (D) style. While ENTPs are influential and sociable, they also exhibit qualities associated with Dominance, such as assertiveness, a focus on results, and a strategic approach to problem-solving.

So, for an ENTP, the primary DISC style might be Influence (Yellow), and the secondary style might be Dominance (Red).

5.INFJ Advocate (1st: Blue + 2nd: Green)

For an INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Steadiness (S) category. INFJs are known for their empathy, patience, and preference for harmony and cooperation. These traits align with the characteristics of the Steadiness style in DISC, which values supportive relationships, stability, and a calm approach to tasks.

So, an INFJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Green category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) would likely be Blue, corresponding to the Conscientiousness © style. While INFJs are steady and focused on harmony, they also exhibit qualities associated with Conscientiousness, such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a systematic approach to tasks.

So, for an INFJ, the primary DISC style might be Steadiness (Green), and the secondary style might be Conscientiousness (Blue).

6. INFP Mediator (1st: Green + 2nd: Yellow)

An INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely fit into the Steadiness (S) category in the DISC model. INFPs are known for their empathy, compassion, and preference for harmony and cooperation. These traits align with the characteristics of the Steadiness style in DISC, which values supportive relationships, stability, and a patient approach to tasks.

So, an INFP would likely find themselves fitting into the Green category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely be Yellow, corresponding to the Influence (I) style. While INFPs are steady and value harmony, they also exhibit qualities associated with Influence, such as being creative, communicative, and focused on building meaningful relationships.

So, for an INFP, the primary DISC style might be Steadiness (Green), and the secondary style might be Influence (Yellow).

7. ENFJ Protagonist (1st: Yellow + 2nd: Green)

For an ENFJ (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Influence (I) category. ENFJs are known for their sociability, empathy, and ability to influence and inspire others. These traits align with the characteristics of the Influence style in DISC, which values communication, collaboration, and building relationships.

So, an ENFJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Yellow category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ENFJ (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) would likely be Green, corresponding to the Steadiness (S) style. While ENFJs are influential and sociable, they also exhibit qualities associated with Steadiness, such as being patient, supportive, and focused on maintaining harmony in relationships.

So, for an ENFJ, the primary DISC style might be Influence (Yellow), and the secondary style might be Steadiness (Green).

8. ENFP Campaigner (1st: Yellow + 2nd: Red)

An ENFP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely fit into the Influence (I) category in the DISC model. ENFPs are known for their enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to connect with others on a personal level. These traits align with the characteristics of the Influence style in DISC, which values communication, collaboration, and building relationships.

So, an ENFP would likely find themselves fitting into the Yellow category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ENFP (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely be Red, corresponding to the Dominance (D) style. While ENFPs are influential and sociable, they also exhibit qualities associated with Dominance, such as being assertive, strategic, and results-oriented.

So, for an ENFP, the primary DISC style might be Influence (Yellow), and the secondary style might be Dominance (Red).

9. ISTJ Logistician (1st: Blue + 2nd: Red)

For an ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Conscientiousness © category. ISTJs are known for their attention to detail, systematic approach, and preference for structure and organization. These traits align with the characteristics of the Conscientiousness style in DISC, which values accuracy, precision, and a methodical approach to tasks.

So, an ISTJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Blue category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) would likely be Red, corresponding to the Dominance (D) style. While ISTJs are conscientious and detail-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Dominance, such as being assertive, goal-oriented, and focused on results.

So, for an ISTJ, the primary DISC style might be Conscientiousness (Blue), and the secondary style might be Dominance (Red).

10. ISFJ Defender (1st: Green + 2nd: Blue)

For an ISFJ (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Steadiness (S) category. ISFJs are known for their empathy, patience, and supportive nature. These traits align with the characteristics of the Steadiness style in DISC, which values stability, cooperation, and a calm approach to tasks.

So, an ISFJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Green category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ISFJ (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging) would likely be Blue, corresponding to the Conscientiousness © style. While ISFJs are steady and supportive, they also exhibit qualities associated with Conscientiousness, such as attention to detail, a systematic approach, and a preference for structure.

So, for an ISFJ, the primary DISC style might be Steadiness (Green), and the secondary style might be Conscientiousness (Blue).

11. ESTJ Executive (1st: Red + 2nd: Blue)

For an ESTJ (Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Dominance (D) category. ESTJs are known for their assertiveness, leadership qualities, and a focus on efficiency and results. These traits align with the characteristics of the Dominance style in DISC, which values taking charge, assertiveness, and a results-oriented approach to tasks.

So, an ESTJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Red category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ESTJ (Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) would likely be Blue, corresponding to the Conscientiousness © style. While ESTJs are dominant and results-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Conscientiousness, such as attention to detail, a systematic approach, and a preference for structure.

So, for an ESTJ, the primary DISC style might be Dominance (Red), and the secondary style might be Conscientiousness (Blue).

12. ESFJ Consul (1st: Yellow + 2nd: Green)

For an ESFJ (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Influence (I) category. ESFJs are known for their sociability, empathy, and focus on relationships. These traits align with the characteristics of the Influence style in DISC, which values communication, collaboration, and building connections with others.

So, an ESFJ would likely find themselves fitting into the Yellow category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ESFJ (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging) would likely be Green, corresponding to the Steadiness (S) style. While ESFJs are influential and sociable, they also exhibit qualities associated with Steadiness, such as being patient, supportive, and focused on maintaining harmony in relationships.

So, for an ESFJ, the primary DISC style might be Influence (Yellow), and the secondary style might be Steadiness (Green).

13. ISTP Virtuoso (1st: Red + 2nd: Yellow)

For an ISTP (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Dominance (D) category. ISTPs are known for their practicality, decisiveness, and focus on results. These traits align with the characteristics of the Dominance style in DISC, which values taking charge, assertiveness, and a results-oriented approach to tasks.

So, an ISTP would likely find themselves fitting into the Red category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ISTP (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving) would likely be Yellow, corresponding to the Influence (I) style. While ISTPs are dominant and results-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Influence, such as adaptability, sociability, and an ability to connect with others.

So, for an ISTP, the primary DISC style might be Dominance (Red), and the secondary style might be Influence (Yellow).

14. ISFP Adventurer (1st: Green + 2nd: Yellow)

For an ISFP (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Steadiness (S) category. ISFPs are known for their supportive and compassionate nature, as well as their preference for harmony and flexibility. These traits align with the characteristics of the Steadiness style in DISC, which values stability, cooperation, and a calm approach to tasks.

So, an ISFP would likely find themselves fitting into the Green category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ISFP (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely be Yellow, corresponding to the Influence (I) style. While ISFPs are steady and value harmony, they also exhibit qualities associated with Influence, such as creativity, sociability, and a focus on building meaningful relationships.

So, for an ISFP, the primary DISC style might be Steadiness (Green), and the secondary style might be Influence (Yellow).

15. ESTP Entrepreneur (1st: Red + 2nd: Yellow)

For an ESTP (Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Dominance (D) category. ESTPs are known for their assertiveness, practicality, and focus on action and results. These traits align with the characteristics of the Dominance style in DISC, which values taking charge, assertiveness, and a results-oriented approach to tasks.

So, an ESTP would likely find themselves fitting into the Red category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ESTP (Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving) would likely be Yellow, corresponding to the Influence (I) style. While ESTPs are dominant and action-oriented, they also exhibit qualities associated with Influence, such as being sociable, persuasive, and focused on building connections.

So, for an ESTP, the primary DISC style might be Dominance (Red), and the secondary style might be Influence (Yellow).

16. ESFP Entertainer (1st: Yellow + 2nd: Red)

For an ESFP (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving), the most likely fit in the DISC model would be the Influence (I) category. ESFPs are known for their outgoing and sociable nature, creativity, and ability to connect with others on a personal level. These traits align with the characteristics of the Influence style in DISC, which values communication, collaboration, and building relationships.

So, an ESFP would likely find themselves fitting into the Yellow category in the DISC model as their primary style.

The second color in the DISC model for an ESFP (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving) would likely be Red, corresponding to the Dominance (D) style. While ESFPs are influential and sociable, they also exhibit qualities associated with Dominance, such as being assertive, action-oriented, and focused on results.

So, for an ESFP, the primary DISC style might be Influence (Yellow), and the secondary style might be Dominance (Red).

The coordinates of 16 MBTI personalities in the DISC system with analysis

16 Personalities and their relative coordinates

Based on the analysis of each personality in MBTI, I have allocated each of them to their relative coordinates. For instance, let’s have a look at INFP, since its primary color is green, it is in the 3rd quadrant which is of course the green one. And because yellow prevails after green in INFP, therefore, it is closer to the right instead of to the blue in the quadrant.

Notice an interesting phenomenon that no such a personality consists of a combination of red + green nor blue + yellow as their primary and secondary colors and it aligns with the idea in the book. That either red and green or blue and yellow are challenging combinations meaning they are not compatible so it is very unlikely that a person behaves in 2 complementary colors.

Moreover, there are 2 interesting personalities in the red which are INTJ and ISTP. They are Introverted people in MBTI but primarily red (tends to be extroverted) in DISC, so there is a contradiction that doesn’t align very well in their cases. A possible explanation with that is perhaps they are more likely ambiverts meaning they tend to have a balance between introversion and extroversion.

I always believe in the saying “Birds of a feather flock together” for a reason. In Chinese, 物以類聚 人以群分(Literally means similar things group together, similar people fit together). Take me as an example, I am an INTP and most of my friends are in Blues, Greens and Reds. Specifically, my best friend is also an INTP and we can almost read each other’s minds without saying much. I always wonder how and why we are so similar. Initially, I believed we had similar childhoods and backgrounds so the similar experiences shaped our personalities. But it was not true because our backgrounds are very different and I read something that genetics actually contribute to a person’s personality so who knows?

Assume my speculation that birds of a feather flock together is correct, it showcases we always lack some perspectives of another color. For example, me as a blue I found myself lacking the optimistic visionary of a yellow because I don’t really have much contact with yellows thus I was not exposed to their perspective. In broader terms, our blind spots lie within our complementary color. If I would like to improve my interpersonal skills, I should learn more about the yellows, I don’t have to turn myself into one of them because it is almost impossible to change your own personality and there’s no reason to compromise. But simply knowing how a yellow behaves would allow me to become more versatile when dealing with interpersonal relationship matters.

I hope this article has inspired you in some ways. Go check out your friends' personalities to verify whether my speculation is right or wrong. Leave a comment for further discussion.