HEXACO and Decision Making: How Your Personality Affects Choices

Understanding the HEXACO Model

The HEXACO model of personality consists of six key traits that capture the core dimensions of human behavior:

• Honesty-Humility: Sincerity, fairness, modesty, and avoidance of greed.
• Emotionality: Anxiety, dependence, fearfulness, and sentimentality.
• Extraversion: Sociability, assertiveness, and enthusiasm for excitement.
• Agreeableness: Patience, cooperation, and forgiveness.
• Conscientiousness: Organization, responsibility, and diligence.
• Openness to Experience: Curiosity, creativity, and willingness to embrace new ideas.

How HEXACO Traits Influence Decision Making

1. Honesty-Humility: Ethical and Fair Choices

Individuals with high Honesty-Humility scores tend to make ethical decisions based on fairness, integrity, and a sense of responsibility toward others. They are likely to consider the impact of their decisions on others, making choices that avoid manipulation or selfishness. For example, in professional settings, someone with high Honesty-Humility may resist taking credit for others' work or cutting corners to advance their own career.

On the other hand, individuals with low Honesty-Humility may be more inclined to make decisions based on personal gain, even at the expense of others. They might prioritize self-interest over fairness, which could lead to unethical behavior in business or relationships, such as dishonesty or exploitation.

2. Emotionality: Risk Aversion vs. Risk-Taking

Emotionality plays a significant role in how we perceive and manage risks. People who score high in Emotionality are more likely to avoid risky decisions due to fear, anxiety, or a tendency to focus on potential negative outcomes. This trait might lead them to play it safe in decision-making, whether in financial investments, career choices, or relationships.

In contrast, individuals with low Emotionality tend to be more resilient in the face of uncertainty and may be more willing to take risks. They are likely to make bold, adventurous choices, especially in situations that others may find intimidating. While this can lead to exciting opportunities, it can also result in reckless or impulsive decisions if not carefully managed.

3. Extraversion: Sociability and Decision Influence

Extraversion influences decision-making by shaping how individuals interact with others and how they seek social approval. Highly extraverted individuals tend to make decisions based on their social network and may prioritize the opinions or preferences of others in their choices. For example, an extravert might choose a career path or a social activity based on the influence of friends or colleagues rather than personal passion.

On the other hand, introverts (those low in Extraversion) are more likely to make decisions independently and may prioritize personal reflection over social input. While introverts may make well-thought-out decisions based on internal values and preferences, they could miss out on opportunities for collaboration and networking that could benefit their personal and professional lives.

4. Agreeableness: Cooperative vs. Assertive Choices

People who score high in Agreeableness are more likely to make decisions that promote harmony and avoid conflict. They are cooperative and tend to consider the needs and feelings of others when making choices. In a workplace setting, an agreeable individual may take on extra work to help a colleague or avoid making decisions that could lead to interpersonal conflict, even if it is detrimental to their own interests.

However, individuals with low Agreeableness may be more assertive or competitive in their decision-making. They may make decisions that prioritize their own interests or confront others when necessary, which can be beneficial in situations where strong leadership is required. However, this approach could lead to conflicts or negative social interactions if not balanced with empathy and understanding.

5. Conscientiousness: Thoughtful and Responsible Choices

Conscientious individuals tend to make thoughtful, responsible decisions. They are careful planners who take into account long-term consequences and work toward achieving their goals in an organized manner. In terms of decision-making, conscientious individuals are more likely to make well-considered choices, avoid impulsivity, and follow through on their commitments. For example, they might carefully research investment opportunities or take their time to make career decisions.

People low in Conscientiousness, on the other hand, may make more impulsive or disorganized decisions. They might jump into opportunities without fully evaluating the risks or benefits, which can lead to mistakes or regrets. In work and personal life, this can manifest as procrastination, poor time management, or making choices that lack foresight.

6. Openness to Experience: Creative and Flexible Decision Making

Openness to Experience is linked to creativity and a willingness to embrace new ideas. Individuals who score high on Openness are more likely to make unconventional or innovative decisions, often seeking out new experiences or opportunities that others might avoid. They may excel in fields that require creativity or problem-solving, such as art, science, or entrepreneurship, and often enjoy exploring alternative solutions or approaches.

On the other hand, individuals who score low in Openness tend to make more traditional or conventional choices. They are likely to prefer routines and may be less comfortable with change or uncertainty. While their decision-making may be more stable and predictable, they could miss out on creative solutions or innovative opportunities that could lead to personal or professional growth.

Practical Applications: How to Use Your HEXACO Traits in Decision Making

Understanding your HEXACO personality traits can give you valuable insight into how you make decisions. By being aware of your tendencies, you can leverage your strengths and work on areas that may limit your decision-making abilities. Here are a few ways to apply this knowledge:

• Honesty-Humility: Focus on making decisions that align with your ethical values and ensure fairness in all situations.
• Emotionality: Practice managing anxiety and emotional reactions to help you make more balanced, risk-aware choices.
• Extraversion: Use your social connections to gather diverse perspectives, but balance them with your personal values and instincts.
• Agreeableness: Learn to assert yourself when necessary, while still maintaining empathy and cooperation in your decisions.
• Conscientiousness: Continue making thoughtful, responsible decisions, but try to remain open to new ideas and flexibility when necessary.
• Openness to Experience: Embrace creativity and innovation, but also consider the practical implications and risks of your choices.

Final Thoughts

Your HEXACO personality traits play a crucial role in shaping how you make decisions, from everyday choices to life-changing moments. By understanding how each trait influences your decision-making process, you can make more informed, balanced, and authentic choices that align with your values and goals. Embrace your personality, and use it to navigate your personal and professional life with confidence and clarity!