My Name is Heather, and I’m Type A
It’s taken me a long time to admit this, but I have a problem. I’m severely Type A, and it’s out of control. I say “yes” to everything, and thus have way too much on my plate. And I’d make excuses for how I got this way–the oldest child, the only daughter, a member of Gen Y, etc. It’s affected me both professionally and personally.
However, this is all going to change soon. Today, I begin the five steps to overcoming your Type A personality:
- Admit you cannot control your Type A personality
- Examine past errors as a result of your Type A personality with the help of a sponsor (someone who was previously Type A)
- Make amends for these errors
- Learn to live a new life not dominated by a Type A personality
- Help others who are victims of their Type A personality
While there are only five steps, I realize this is going to take me a while. After all, I went twenty-something years as a Type A! I certainly don’t expect an overnight transformation, and neither should you.
What has brought me to admit all of this in a very public forum? I’ve finally realized I can’t be everything to everyone. Silly, right? For so long I’ve been playing the hero in both my professional and personal lives, and I think it’s making me sick–literally.
I believe there are a lot of Type A personalities out there who suffer in silence. I’m vowing right now to no longer be one of them. I invite you to take this journey with me. Per Step 1, admit your uncontrollable Type A personality in the comments below. How is it hurting your career (or personal life)?
Allison Janney
I totally hear you Heather! I have been type “A” my whole life! Currently, I have 2 jobs, 1 internship, am active in 3 student clubs yet I am looking to get more involved with being on a Junior Board and doing some consulting work for another local organization. Oh, did I mention I am I full-time student? One of the balls has to drop, probably around finals time.
Posted 11-16-2009