Thomas Erikson – surrounded by idiots
Summary: In „Surrounded by Idiots,“ Swedish behavioral expert Thomas Erikson presents the DISC personality framework through a simple color-coded system: Red (dominant, direct), Yellow (influential, optimistic), Green (steady, supportive), and Blue (analytical, detail-oriented). Erikson argues that most interpersonal conflicts arise not from people being difficult or unintelligent, but from fundamentally different communication styles and behavioral preferences that we fail to recognize and adapt to. The book provides practical insights into identifying these personality types in colleagues, friends, and family members, and offers strategies for adjusting your communication approach to work more effectively with each type. Through relatable examples and straightforward explanations, Erikson shows how understanding these differences can transform challenging relationships into productive collaborations.
Why we like it: Yes, personality tests are controversial. Nevertheless this book is super useful because it takes complex personality psychology and distills it into an immediately accessible and practical tool that anyone can apply in their daily interactions. The color-coded system is memorable and non-judgmental, making it easier for people to develop empathy and adapt their communication style rather than simply labeling others as „difficult“ or „wrong.“