Light vs. Dark

We’ve all had those moments of reflection. You look at yourself and wonder “Why am I this way?” or “Why do I do things one way when most other people do it the other way?”. Once we are distracted from this thought we will not revisit it again for some time. I have done a lot of research lately on the nature of people in an attempt to figure out why some of us are more dark natured and why some of us more light natured. Keep in mind that I use the term “dark natured” simply because that is the term most people will understand. I do not mean it negatively at all.

One group of psychologists that had look into the subject found that the nature of a person is actually created from birth and because of this it is highly unlikely for a dark natured person to become light natured, or for a light natured person to become dark natured. Before I discuss the subject any further I will outline the characteristics of dark and light natured people.

Dark Natured

Someone who is dark natured is likely to be introverted and will mostly keep to themselves. It is important that you understand the difference between introverted and anti-social. Dark natured people have no problem with socialising but they are more likely to hang out with smaller crowds than to go out clubbing. These people will be naturally dominant and are prone to creating a reality in which they have dominant leadership in their careers, relationships and even their social circle. These are generally not “huggy” people but although they flaunt an aloof and unsmiling exterior they are still pretty friendly. Dark natured people have no problem with bluntly telling you their opinion no matter how much you may not like it. They are also the kind of friend that will tell you to your face how terrible your new haircut is or that your girlfriend is a bitch. Honesty is never an issue with dark natured people because they don’t care much what you think of them. They tend to be emotionally closed off with only a few people that they trust enough to share their feelings with. Although dark natured people come across as harsh and mean they are actually extremely loving and protective of their friends and family, they just show it differently.

Light Natured

Light natured people are just as loving and protective of their family and friends but this time you are absolutely aware of it. Light natured people tend to enjoy teamwork and will often work in a position where they are required to work in a team. They will likely take part in sports and competitions. A light natured person is usually extroverted and very talkative. Whether you are talking about dry toast or sharing the latest office gossip, a light natured person will be there with more stories and opinions related to the matter. They have little difficulty telling you the problems in their lives and if a light natured person is pissed off you will definitely know about it. Light natured people are very “huggy” people. They will hug you hello, they will hug to say thank you and they will hug you goodbye. Twice. They are very community orientated and will organize group outings or office breakfasts and the larger the group, the better. Although light natured people are strongly opinionated and love to give advice, they will “sugar-coat” their words in an attempt to make it less hurtful.

Someone of a dark nature is likely to roll their eyes at someone of a light nature, and someone of a light nature is likely to stay awake at night worried about someone of a dark nature. It is important to understand the difference between dark and light natured people because they need to be approached and treated differently. Once you can understand the nature of someone you can understand how to get the best out of them. You cannot treat a dark natured child the same way you treat a light natured child. You cannot inspire a light natured person in the same way you might inspire a dark natured person. Both natures are necessary in this world. I will get soppy about it and remind you that if there was no dark, light would serve no purpose. Both natures are necessary because they fulfil different needs in society.

Our nature is defined by our experiences, our upbringing and our outlook on life. It is not something that is likely to change and so it is probably best that you just embrace it. Have a look at your nature and use the strong points to your advantage. A dark natured person is likely to take on large amounts of work because they have no problem working late into the night, they were just going stay home anyway. A light natured person is perfect for networking because they can go out there and discuss and make connections all day long, and then still be happy to do it tomorrow again. Partner up a dark natured person with a light natured person and you have yourself a dynamite team.