Type Ones have a strong sense of having a mission in life, if only to reduce the disorder they see in their environment. They strive to overcome adversity so that the human spirit can shine through and make a difference. Through their idealism, such as with Gandhi and Joan of Arc, they can inspire millions.

Although they have a strong sense of purpose, the typically feel they have to justify their actions to themselves and others. Consequently they spend a lot of time thinking about the consequences of their actions and how to ensure they don't act against their convictions. As a result, Ones often think they are “head” types, rationalists who proceed only on logic and objective truth. However, the real picture is Ones are activists who are searching for an acceptable rationale to justify what they feel they must do. They are people of instinct and passion who use convictions and judgements to control and direct themselves and their actions.

In an effort to stay true to their principles, Ones resist their instinctual drives, consciously not giving in to them or expressing them too freely. Consequently they have problems with repression, resistance and aggression. They are usually seen by others as highly self-controlled, even rigid. In contrast, a One feels they are sitting on a cauldron of passions and desires they had better “keep the lid on” lest they and everyone around regret it.

Ones believe being strict with themselves and seeking perfection will justify themselves to self and others. Knowing there is fault in everything makes it difficult for Ones to trust their inner guidance or to trust life, so they listen to their inner voice above all else, a critical inner voice of childhood that is severe, unforgiving and promises to lead them to perfection. Average Ones are convinced this voice is the sole voice of reason – a living hell can result. Separating from from the inner critic and seeing its gifts and limitations is what the Ones growth journey is all about.

When a One can see the perfection in all things, put the inner critic in its place, learn to process their anger and make peace with all parts of themselves, they can live a life of high integrity without  condemning or judging others. Not motivated by personal gain, they can put their own agenda or interests aside for something that is for the long-range good of others, applying a balanced self-discipline and efficiency to their hard work while knowing when “enough is enough”. In doing so they acknowledge that principles, methods and ethical standards are for their own guidance – they’re not trying to fix anyone else but set an example that inspires others. Ultimately Ones becomes a source of wisdom and discernment with an extraordinary ability to know how to do the right thing.

How to Recognise a One

Ones give an impression of tension: they are unable to relax for fear that they should be working. Ones are more tuned into duty than to pleasure. The words ‘ought’ and ‘must’ figure prominently in their speech and thought.

Because they can see how things ought to be (from their perspective), as well as how they are, Ones’ automatic response to unsatisfactory situations is to feel anger with themselves and others. This critical nature makes them natural judges and disciplinarians. Ones want to be fair. They weigh up the rights and wrongs of every situation carefully before making a decision and, once made, agonise over whether they are right. Ones hate the thought of failure, of not being right.

Ones believe they must have great integrity, set an example to others, and be as near perfect as they can. The thought of lying or cheating is anathema to them. Some experience Ones as judgmental and self-righteous but at their best they are upright, fair and morally heroic.

The One at Work

Ones embody and embrace the Protestant work ethic which is the cornerstone of Western industrial organisations. Ones believe that work is good not just for its economic benefits but for its moral benefits too.  The working style of a One is to be perfect: there is a correct way to carry out every task and it should be done according to the book. A One’s day is organised by routines: an exact time to get up, to travel to work, to arrive home, to go to bed. Ones make superlative time organisers.  They are never late and any spare time is always put to good use. Life and work are the same thing for a One: both are serious business. Ones don’t exactly enjoy work, but they don’t enjoy it when they are not working either.

To discover the Ones on your team, ask yourself: “Who always likes to follow the rules?”; “Who likes to create and follow routines?” and “Who tends to be most critical when things don’t go right?”

Working with a One

They might say "This is sloppy and disorganised. If I were in charge, things wouldn’t be in such a mess”.

They get stressed by …

Not being able to quiet the inner critic, feeling overburdened by a sense of personal responsibility, too much error to correct, others being irresponsible.

They get angry because of …

Unfairness, irresponsibility, things being done the wrong way, flagrant breaking of rules, being unjustly criticised.

Get along with them by …

See their critical attitude as being a reflection of their self criticism – it’s not about you. Discover their standards and values and take them into account; don't overload them with tasks as they will want to do them all perfectly; be careful with criticism – they are already hard on themselves; deliver high quality work to them.