Polanyi would suggest that the notion of “objectivity” is always suspect, given that the source of this objectivity is always subjective. Our rationality is always couched in an irrationality to which we can never directly (or objectively) attend, given that we would once again have to find a place from which to mount our attention. For the Golden Yellow, there is always this struggle about somehow being rational and objective in a world that doesn’t take easily to such a stance.
As we compile a portrait of the Steadfast Golden Yellow style of leadership, we find that the primary source of Joy is found in gaining an objective sense of what is happening out there in the world. The primary source of energy comes from systematically arriving at an “accurate” conception of reality When seeking to focus their attention on something that is important, those with a Golden Yellow orientation are likely to devote time (and energy) to remaining clear, consistent and rational in addressing real life issues-and they best do this by working with some independence from other people.
The strength inherent in the Golden Yellow style of leadership is insistence on getting it right. The Golden Yellow leader, in turn, is challenged when being pushed to action without adequate information (this push often brought about by a Ruby Red leader). As already noted, they are also challenged when confronted with alternative interpretations of reality (these interpretations often being offered by an Azure Blue leader). So, what is the ultimate threat for the Thoughtful Golden Yellow leader: it is not being perfectly right.
Thoughtful Golden Yellow: Viewing Other Preferences
Those with a Golden Yellow orientation often consider themselves to be the best judge of character and personal strengths—since they can stand back and objectively observe the behavior of other people and the consequences of this behavior. While they might wait from someone to ask for their observations and judgements, the Golden Yellows are quick to share what they “know.” First, those with a Ruby Red orientation can tend to be quite arrogant—especially if they are in a leadership role or are in a position to exert some authority (formal or informal).
To use the old phrase, the Ruby Reds act like “bulls in a China shop.” They often leave behind debris after they have acted and do more wounding than healing. Furthermore, the Ruby Reds are described by those with a Golden Yellow orientation as being ignorant: They move forward without knowing if sufficient resources are available. A new computer system is installed without any training being required—and it might not even be the case that this system is really needed: Ruby Reds seem to be attracted to shiny new toys!
When it comes to those with an Azure Blue orientation, the Golden Yellows are likely to use such terms as “irrational”, “soft hearted” and “dreamer.” The Golden Yellows find the Azure Blues to be particularly frustrating to work with because they are always ignoring reality and thinking only about the future. Why can’t we stay in the present for a few minutes and solve the problems that we face right now, rather than anticipating problems of the future or spending time envisioning what a world would look like if these problems didn’t exist. There will not be a tomorrow if we don’t concentrate on today.
