It is especially the condition of contradiction that tends to frustrate the Thoughtful Golden Yellow and their orientation toward realism. Specifically, it is the condition of contradiction that drives many Golden Yellows to an introverted retreat. What does it mean that we have two or more sets of data that portray quite different realities? And what does it mean for us to know that these different perceptions of reality are often dictated by political agendas, societal biases, as well as a strong dose of arrogance and ignorance. The sunlight might be illuminating our reality, but there are also many shadows, and the sunlight has not penetrated all corners of our reality. Especially those corners that are filled with anxiety and hatred. The realism of Golden Yellow is desperately needed right now. However, the versions of reality that emerge are often suspect. This version of reality is often now contained within and gains energy from Bion’s unprocessed Beta elements.
The Golden Yellow Relationship
A satisfactory relationship for the Golden Yellow is founded in clear and consistent communication. Thoughtful Golden Yellow people interact with others in order to learn more about the real world in which they are expected to lead. They are looking for objectively-based information—but that is hard to find. At the very least, an effective Golden Yellow person will look for diverse perspectives on the real world—if they are inclined toward extraversion. Multiple stakeholders will be invited to the table, where they can share what they know or what they believe that they know, without being intimidated or ignored.
Those with an extraverted Golden Yellow preference will tend to build their extended relationships around shared expertise and those people with credible sources of knowledge. Those with an introverted Golden Yellow preference will be inclined to work inside the tent. An expert and person with relevant knowledge might, on occasion, be invited into the tent. More often, the introvert will rely on written reports, as well as the articles and books written by the knowledgeable expert. The best working environment for those with a Golden Yellow preference, whether introverted or extraverted, is one in which there are strong formal operations that are being consistently monitored. Feedback about these operations is being taken seriously, and corrective actions are being taken.
When a relationship isn’t working well, the person with a Thoughtful Golden Yellow orientation will want to move away from the other person – especially if they are introverted. If they find it difficult to work with this person, then the Golden Yellow will find good excuses for not spending time with this person. Avoidance is the third option that is identified by Karen Horney. Just as the sun burns bright at a long distance from our earth, the Golden Yellow person will want somehow to move out far enough to be safe if they are introverted and see things more clearly or more “objectively” if they are extraverted.
Bringing in the perspective of Will Schutz, the primary interpersonal need is for management of Inclusion: who do I want to be with and who do I want to avoid? What if they invite me to join them—do I want to accept their invitation? What if they don’t want to include me? Will I feel hurt or relieved? It is important to note that the need for Inclusion often drops off precipitously when we are going through a divorce or feel betrayed in a business relationship. We become more introverted. Furthermore, if the level of interpersonal trust declines, then a Golden Yellow perspective often becomes more attractive – at least for a short period of time (while we cocoon). This is likely to occur even if we hold a markedly extraverted attitude.
